Osaka's Famous Takoyaki
Takoyaki is Osaka's most famous street food, consisting of small, round balls of batter filled with diced octopus (tako), tempura scraps (tenkasu), pickled ginger, and green onion. The balls are cooked in a special molded pan and brushed with takoyaki sauce (similar to Worcestershire sauce) and mayonnaise, then topped with green laver (aonori) and bonito flakes.
Best Places to Try Takoyaki in Osaka
- Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka - Famous for their creamy interior and crispy exterior
- Aizuya - One of the oldest takoyaki shops in Osaka
- Creo-Ru Dotonbori - Known for their jumbo-sized takoyaki
- Takoyaki Kukuru - Popular chain with several locations
How to Eat Takoyaki
Takoyaki is served piping hot (usually around 180°C/356°F). Be careful when biting into them! The traditional way is to:
- Let them cool for about 30 seconds
- Take a small bite to release some heat
- Enjoy the creamy interior and chewy octopus pieces
- Most stands provide small skewers or toothpicks for eating
Takoyaki Variations
While traditional takoyaki is always popular, many shops offer creative variations:
- Cheese-filled takoyaki
- Kimchi takoyaki
- Mentaiko (spicy cod roe) takoyaki
- Premium versions with larger octopus pieces