Known as the nations kitchen, Osaka is one of hot spots in Japan for delicious foods and an abundance of places to try and eat new foods.
1. TAKOYAKI
Takoyaki is ball shaped dumplings made of egg batter and mostly octopus and sometimes onions and ginger. They tend to be topped with mayonnaise, brown sauce and seaweed. Takoyaki is credited to having been created by a street vendor in Osaka!
2. SUSHI AND SASHIMI
Sushi is probably the best known Japanese food and can be found anywhere. However, it is still very important to include this as it is Japans most popular food as well. Osaka is home to one of the biggest fish markets in Japan and sushi and sashimi are available anywhere in the city from street food to high class restaurants.
3. OKONOMIYAKI
Okonomiyaki is a savoury pancake which consists of batter and cabbage with a range of selected toppings from cheese to meat. The word 'okonomi' means to ones liking which reflects in the dish as people can choose what they want on it so the dish is personalised to their taste. Some restaurants make the dish right in front of you on a hot plate.
4. YAKINIKU
Yakiniku means grilled meat and refers to barbecued meat cuisine. In some restaurants in Japan, you are able to grill the meat yourself at the table. This is very popular as people can cook their food to their own liking. This originated in Korea. A lot of these restaurants will be found in Osaka's very own Korea town.
5. KUSHIKATSU
Kushikatsu is deep fried meat and vegetables on a skewer often served with dipping sauces. 'Kushi' refers to the skewers and 'Katsu' refers to deep fried meat. Food that you can get in this includes beef, shrimp, pork, potato, onions and so on. This meal is popular throughout Japan but is said to have originated in Osaka in the 1920s.
6. KITSUNE UDON
Kisune udon is a meat less noodle soup often topped with fried tofu and served in hot soup. It is said to be a fox's favourite food with 'Kitsune' meaning fox. Udon is a thick noodle made from wheat flour and is served in many different ways. Even though this dish is similar to ramen, this is more delicate and is also very popular in Osaka.
Fun fact: Slurping is considered polite in Japan - its a compliment to the chef!
Try these foods and tell us what you think!
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