Japan’s second-largest city has long been nicknamed “the Nation’s Kitchen,” so it’s natural that its biggest draw is the cooking. Food is in Osaka’s blood — “kuidaore,” loosely meaning “eat yourself to ruin,” is a favorite motto and pastime. Osaka and its charm tend toward the downmarket, but fine dining gems also draw hungry fans from around the world. Less stuffy than Tokyo and less dainty than Kyoto, Osaka is a true culinary destination in all its unfussy, in-your-face glory. Here are the 38 essential eating and drinking experiences in Osaka.
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Price key:
$ = 3000 yen (25 USD) and under
$$ = 3000 - 8000 yen (26 to 70 USD)
$$$ = 8000 - 15,000 yen (71 to 130 USD)
$$$$ = 15,000 yen (130 USD) and up