After exploring Osaka’s Den Den Town, lunchtime quickly approached. In Japan, having a meal on time often involves a substantial wait. As most Japanese restaurants are relatively small, and the population density is not significantly different from ours, it’s common to spend quite a while waiting to dine promptly.
In the situation of dining alone, I wasn’t keen on waiting extensively for a meal. Therefore, I decided to have lunch a bit earlier than others and fortuitously stumbled upon a promising dining spot in Den Den Town.
“Osaka Den Den Town Food Court – Community Food Hall”
The place I unexpectedly found was the “Community Food Hall,” where various restaurants gathered in a manner reminiscent of our food courts but with a distinct Japanese touch. Located within the Takashimaya Department Store East Building, the establishment had an air of history, and the atmosphere inside the food court was pleasantly tidy.
Concerned that the ambiance might translate to exorbitant meal prices, I was relieved to find that the dining costs were reasonable. Operating as a food court allowed ample seating, making it an ideal place for a solo meal without feeling conspicuous.
“A Variety of Cuisines Under One Roof”
Being a food court, it offered a diverse range of cuisines in one place, making it a delightful option. From Japanese ramen to Italian dishes like pasta and pizza, and even cafes, there was an array of food options to explore.
While I only tried one dish as I was dining alone, it seemed like a great place to visit with friends and order a variety of foods to share.
“Sampling Japanese Curry”
Contemplating the menu for lunch, I eventually decided to try Japanese curry. Although the attendant wasn’t proficient in English, luckily, an English menu was available, making ordering straightforward. In Japan, portion sizes are generally smaller than in Korea, so to be cautious, I ordered a larger size, ensuring a satisfying meal.
The taste was quite decent. The curry sauce provided was familiar, not markedly different from what one might encounter in Korea. It resembled the flavor of “Tea’s Asia Curry,” a product endorsed by actress Jeon Ji-hyun.
“Comfortable Atmosphere”
What stood out most was the spacious setting and comfortable atmosphere of the place. Most Japanese restaurants operate on a smaller scale, giving off an atmosphere of needing to eat quickly and leave promptly. However, this place had a decent interior and ample space, allowing for a relaxed and leisurely meal, which was highly appreciated.
“Osaka Den Den Town, Community Food Hall”
- Address: 1F, Takashimaya East Building, 3 Chome-5-25 Nipponbashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0005, Japan
- Phone Number: +81 6-6567-8606
- Website: Community Food Hall
- Operating Hours: 10:00 – 22:00