When you go sightseeing in Osaka, kushikatsu is one of the most popular gourmet foods to eat along with takoyaki and okonomiyaki.In this article, we will introduce four carefully selected kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) restaurants. We have compiled information on a variety of establishments, including casual and healthy kushikatsu restaurants, places suitable for large groups to enjoy, traditional kushikatsu restaurants, and hidden gems of upscale kushikatsu establishments with a long-standing history.
We also provide information on the rules for enjoying kushikatsu for beginners to Osaka’s kushikatsu restaurants. If you want to eat delicious kushikatsu or enjoy kushikatsu in Osaka, please refer to this page.
What are the rules for enjoying recommended kushikatsu in Osaka?
The most important rule for enjoying the best kushikatsu in Osaka is the prohibition against dipping the skewers in sauce twice. Since several customers share a sauce tray at a kushikatsu restaurant in Osaka, it is strictly forbidden to dip a skewer twice in the sauce once you have eaten it. Therefore, you are only allowed to dip the skewer in the sauce once before eating it.
Also, long garnishes such as seafood and asparagus, or several garnishes stuck in a single strand such as mini-tomatoes and quail eggs, will require additional sauce. To add sauce, we recommend using the bite-sized raw cabbage served with the entree. You can use the raw cabbage like a spoon to scoop the sauce and pour it over the skewer for a second time.
You can enjoy seasonal skewers in a healthy way「Kushikatsu Akatombo」
The classic way to enjoy the crispy and light, thinly coated seasonal kushikatsu at Akatombo involves drizzling it with a chicken broth-based sauce. Akatombo’s signature method includes using the latest fryers that allow for healthier frying, minimizing fat absorption and resulting in a low-calorie option. As a result, even when indulging in a generous serving, it is well-received for being less likely to cause the typical heaviness associated with regular kushikatsu.
In addition to a highball, which pairs well with kushikatsu, its menu offers a selection of refreshing alcoholic beverages with a smooth finish, as well as a variety of soft drinks.
Furthermore, the interior is enveloped in warm lighting, making it a welcoming space where women can comfortably enter without hesitation. From kushikatsu options such as pork tenderloin, pork belly, and beef cutlets to unique skewers like pickled ginger and long yam, we encourage you to savor the diverse flavors on its menu.
<Basic Information>
| Name | Kushikatsu Akatombo |
| Phone number | 06-6362-0114 |
| Address | 1-12 Komatsubara-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka In Hankyu Higashidori Shopping Street |
| Map | |
| Business Hours | 11:30-14:00(Last Order:13:30) 18:00-23:00(Last Order:22:30) |
| Regular holiday | Unscheduled |
If you’re looking to enjoy Osaka-style kushikatsu in a large group「Gifuya Honke」
“Gifuya Honke” is a long-established dining establishment in Shinsekai, founded in the 5th year of the Taisho era (1916). With skilled chefs who have accumulated years of experience, the restaurant offers meticulously crafted dishes and, of course, the famous Shinsekai specialty kushikatsu.
Furthermore, the distinctive feature of “Gifuya Honke” lies in the careful selection of kushikatsu to complement the presented dishes. The menu ranges from classic kushikatsu to innovative and creative variations. The ingredients for kushikatsu are chosen with a focus not only on the origin and seasonality but also on ensuring optimal compatibility between ingredients for a harmonious dining experience.
Additionally, with 128 seats, the interior is spacious, making it an ample space even for large groups. The use of bamboo blinds (sudare) can transform certain areas into semi-private rooms, providing a convenient option for families with small children or elderly members. This feature adds to the welcoming atmosphere of the establishment.
In a reassuringly spacious environment that accommodates large groups, we invite you to thoroughly enjoy Osaka’s kushikatsu.
<Basic Information>
| Name | Gifuya Honke |
| Phone number | 06-6630-9343 |
| Address | 2-5-9 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka City, Osaka, Japan |
| Map | |
| Business Hours | 11:00am – 10:00pm |
| Regular holiday | None |
Savoring Traditional Kushikatsu at a Leisurely Pace「Shiruhisa (Hozoji Branch)」
Established in the year 1946, Shiruhisa is dedicated to frying each skewer with precision, using carefully selected ingredients and frying techniques. The tradition of ordering ‘omakase’ style (chef’s choice) and the use of a tray with dividers, known as the ‘separating plate,’ for sauce and kushikatsu, originated from Shiruhisa.
Additionally, in accordance with the seasons, Shiruhisa offers a menu featuring seasonal ingredients such as bamboo shoots, abalone, matsutake mushrooms, and oysters. Care is taken to adjust the frying oil composition based on ingredients and the seasons, ensuring a refreshing taste in the summer and a warm, comforting flavor in the winter.
Moreover, when it comes to kushikatsu sauce, Shiruhisa offers not only its special Worcestershire sauce but also a variety including ‘secret sauce,’ a blend of three types of natural salt, ‘dashi shoyu’ (broth soy sauce), ‘karashi ponzu’ (spicy citrus-based sauce), and more. Enjoy the distinct flavors of kushikatsu with its carefully selected ingredients and sauces.
<Basic Information>
| Name | Shiruhisa (Hozoji Branch) |
| Phone number | 06-6211-4673 |
| Address | Hozenji MEOUTO Building 1F, 1-2-10 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka |
| Map | |
| Business Hours | 17:00-22:30(Last Order 21:30) ※Last entry until 21:00 |
| Regular holiday | Thrsueday |
A Hidden Gem in Kita Ward! Recommended Upscale Kushikatsu Restaurant in Osaka:「Kushikatsu Bon」
“Kushikatsu Bon” is a Michelin-acclaimed specialist in kushikatsu. Distinguished by its unique focus on both ingredients and hospitality, it stands apart from traditional kushikatsu establishments.
The representative course menus are the Anniversary Plan and the Chef’s Choice Course.
The Anniversary Plan is suitable for special occasions like anniversaries, celebrations, and birthdays. It includes exquisitely selected and delicious kushikatsu, including the Three Delicacies, and offers the added touch of a table flower that can be taken home as a memento. Additionally, upon request, a message plate can be provided.
The Chef’s Choice Course features kushikatsu made with seasonal, fresh ingredients. It operates on a STOP system, meaning that you need to signal when you are satisfied, and the serving of kushikatsu will be halted at that point.
Why not indulge in an extraordinary time at “Kushikatsu Bon,” where the finest ingredients, top-notch skills, and exceptional hospitality come together to offer an unparalleled dining experience?
<Basic Information>
| Name | Kushikatsu Bon |
| Phone number | 06-6344-0400 |
| Address | Dojima Merry Center Building B1F, 1-3-16 Dojima, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka |
| Map | |
| Business Hours | 18:00-24:30 ※Last entry until 22:30 |
| Regular holiday | Year-end and New Year holidays (12/31-1/1) Normal business hours from January 2nd |
【Osaka (around Shinsekai, Namba, Kita Ward)】Summary of Recommended Kushikatsu Restaurants
So far, we have introduced carefully selected kushikatsu restaurants, including those suitable for those not accustomed to kushikatsu, healthy options, and places ideal for large groups. If you want to savor the classic kushikatsu in Osaka, consider visiting one of the longstanding kushikatsu establishments. Additionally, for a special and memorable kushikatsu experience, it’s recommended to explore upscale kushikatsu restaurants, especially for those marking their visit as a tourist milestone.
Moreover, when you want to know the crowd level at the restaurant, it’s a good idea to call in advance and check. While adhering to the rules for enjoying kushikatsu, go ahead and savor the kushikatsu in Osaka.
