Kids Web Japan

Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area in Japan, after the capital area of Tokyo. Since long ago, people in Osaka have enjoyed Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki; the two famous dishes were developed in the city, whose food culture is so rich that it is known as the place to "eat until you go bust".

(C) Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Okonomiyaki is made from cabbage, flour, eggs, pork or seafood and other ingredients, all mixed into a batter then grilled on an iron plate. Despite its simplicity, the relaxed manner in which it can be eaten anytime, coupled with its deep flavor, has made it a well-loved food not just in Osaka but throughout Japan.

(C) Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Takoyaki is also said to have originated in Osaka and is similar to Okonomiyaki in that it uses a flour-based batter. Unlike Okonomiyaki, However , it is grilled on a special iron plate with many round wells into attractive round balls about 3-4 cm in diameter. It is one of Japan's typical, casual fast foods, eaten as a snack by young and old, men and women alike.
Takoyaki translates as "grilled octopus", and as the name implies, every ball contains a small piece of octopus as its main ingredient; besides its delicious taste, the contrast in texture between the chewy octopus and melt-in-the-mouth batter holds the secret to Takoyaki's popularity.

There are also a number of special sauces and condiments that are indispensable when eating Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki - a special sweet-spicy sauce, as well as mayonnaise, dried bonito flakes, and dried green seaweed. We hope everyone will come to get a taste of Osaka's delicious flavors and lively atmosphere.