When it comes to famous foods in Osaka, Okonomiyaki cannot be left out. As it was our last destination for a family trip to Osaka, and we hadn’t tried Okonomiyaki yet, it naturally became our choice for the final meal.
In the Dotonbori area of Osaka, you can find restaurants famous for Okonomiyaki. Some of these Okonomiyaki restaurants have even earned a spot in the Michelin Guide.
“Diverse Okonomiyaki Specialty Restaurants in Dotonbori”
Back in 2018, during my solo trip to Osaka, I had the chance to taste Okonomiyaki at a restaurant called “Chibo.” This time, with my family, we initially planned to visit the Michelin Guide-listed Mizuno. However, due to the considerable line, we opted for Okaru. Despite approximately 30 minutes of waiting at Okaru, it was a more relaxed experience since we could wait comfortably indoors.
“Osaka Dotonbori, Okonomiyaki Specialty Restaurant, Okaru”
Okaru is situated in an alley, making its sign not easily visible, and it’s easy to pass by without noticing. However, locals seemed to find their way here easily. Even while waiting for our turn, more people gradually joined the queue, and eventually, it extended outside the shop.
After waiting for about 30 minutes, we were seated and ready to enjoy our meal. Most dining establishments in Japan are not particularly large, and Okaru was no exception. Observing the interior of the restaurant, one could understand why people often line up for a meal here.
“Okonomiyaki and Yakisoba”
The main menu items at Okaru are Okonomiyaki and Yakisoba. Although they offer various other dishes, these two can be considered the main courses.
We were a group of five, and we ordered two Okonomiyaki, one large-sized Yakisoba, and an additional set with rice. Since it was our last family meal in Japan, we ordered a variety of items generously, including draft beer and various other menu options.
This meal marked the end of our family trip, and after the parents and my brother’s family returned home, I continued my journey alone. It was a satisfying last meal shared with my family. I’m not sure if my parents were satisfied, but it felt like a decently satisfying meal, and the cost wasn’t too high. For five people, including additional orders of draft beer and drinks, the total came to around 8,000 yen. In Korean won, it was roughly equivalent to about 80,000 won.
Although the wait can be a drawback due to the small size of the restaurant, considering that most Japanese establishments are small-scale, it might not be a significant disadvantage.
If you’re looking for a decent Okonomiyaki specialty restaurant in Dotonbori, Osaka, Okaru is worth a visit during your travels.
“Osaka Dotonbori, Okaru (おかる)”
- Address: 1 Chome-9-19 Sennichimae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0074, Japan
- Phone: +81-6-6211-0985
- Business Hours: 12:00 – 14:30 / 17:00 – 21:30