Shin-Umeda Shokudogai is a dining district located under the railway tracks on the east side of JR Osaka Station. Around 100 restaurants of various genres, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, izakaya, and udon, are open for business, bustling with people day and night. This time, we’ll introduce some highly recommended gourmet spots you should definitely visit in Shin-Umeda Shokudogai.
1. Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki Shops
◆ Hanadako
"Hanadako" is a famous takoyaki shop in Osaka's Umeda area, known for having lines of customers as soon as it opens. Their popular menu items include the classic takoyaki and the hearty Negi Mayo. These large takoyaki balls are quickly cooked at high heat, resulting in a fluffy outside and melty inside! When topped generously with sauce and mayonnaise, they bring happiness in every bite.
The Negi Mayo, topped with an impressive amount of green onions that completely cover the takoyaki, is highly recommended for adults. Even with plenty of sauce and mayo, it’s surprisingly light and pairs perfectly with beer. You should also try their Takosen, great for eating on the go! By the way, the seating is counter-only.
◆ Okonomiyaki Sakura
Okonomiyaki Sakura is a long-established shop serving traditional-style okonomiyaki. Loved by locals for over 50 years, their popular dish is the Mix Tamago, which comes loaded with large pieces of pork, squid, shrimp, and octopus. The batter, made with yam, gives it a crispy outside and fluffy inside, making each bite very satisfying.
Besides okonomiyaki, they offer a variety of dishes like yakiudon, yakisoba, teppanyaki, set meals, and appetizers. Though it's an old establishment, not only locals visit, so feel free to stop by! Takeout is also available.
2. Kushikatsu & Yakitori Shops
◆ Momo
When it comes to Osaka gourmet, kushikatsu is a must-try! Momo is a retro-style kushikatsu shop that boasts its special sauce. Unlike many places nowadays offering multiple sauces, they stick to their one-and-only secret sauce—true to the authentic style. And remember: no double-dipping in the sauce!
They offer 17 kinds of kushikatsu, with the bone-in chicken and pork skewers being especially popular. If you’re unsure what to order, you can’t go wrong with a combo platter. The shop only has standing counter seats, which might require a bit of courage, especially for women, but it’s a must-visit if you want to experience authentic Osaka flavors!
◆ Torihira Sohonten
Torihira is a grilled duck and yakitori shop with fun and unique menu names like Neo Dondon (heart) and Neo Ponpon (tail). They operate three shops in Shin-Umeda Shokudogai. The cute menu names came from conversations with customers over time!
One dish you must try is the Neo Gold Diamond, a grilled soft-boiled egg yolk. Shaped like a round lantern, it bursts when you bite into it, and the melty yolk oozes out. You’ll definitely get hooked on this one!
3. Izakaya Kokoya
Kokoya is a popular izakaya offering over 120 dishes and a wide selection of alcoholic drinks. It’s often chosen for girls’ nights out and gatherings. With its relaxing atmosphere and delicious food, it’s loved by both locals and tourists. The availability of table seating makes it a comfortable place to unwind.
The recommended dishes are their teppanyaki selections, with over 50 different options. Highlights include the Yamimo Negitororo-yaki, made with fluffy yam, and the Mixed Hormone Miso Stir-fry, made with carefully selected domestic beef. These dishes pair perfectly with drinks but are also great as meals on their own.
4. Kamatake Udon
For those who want to enjoy udon in Osaka, the sacred place of flour-based cuisine, Kamatake Udon is a must-visit. This restaurant kicked off the Osaka Sanuki Udon boom. Known for its firm, chewy noodles and rich broth, it offers udon in portions of 300g, 400g, or 800g.
Their most popular dish is the Chikutama Ten Bukkake, topped with freshly fried chikuwa tempura and a soft-boiled egg. For those wanting a stronger punch of flavor, try the Kimura-kun, mixed noodles seasoned with kimchi and chili oil. The shop closes when they run out of noodles, so it’s best to visit during lunch hours from 11 AM to 3 PM.
5. Hirota Western Sweets
Hirota is a Western-style confectionery shop that originated in Osaka, famous for its cream puffs. They have about 15 stores mainly around Tokyo and the Kinki region, so many people may have seen them before. In Shin-Umeda Shokudogai, they operate under the name Osaka Station East Exit Shop.
While their signature cream puffs and ice cream puffs are popular, the recommended treat is the Choux Roll. It looks like a roll cake but is made with choux pastry instead of sponge cake, and the milk-flavored cream inside is a perfect match. It’s reasonably priced and makes a great gift!
Name: Shin-Umeda Shokudogai
Address: 9-26 Kakuda-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka-fu
Official website: http://shinume.com/
◎ Finally: Access to Shin-Umeda Shokudogai
If you're visiting for sightseeing, taking the train is the most recommended way to get there.
【JR / Hankyu / Hanshin Trains】
About a 3-minute walk from JR "Osaka" Station (Midosuji Exit)
About a 1-minute walk from Hankyu "Umeda" Station
About a 3-minute walk from Hanshin "Umeda" Station
【Subway】
About a 3-minute walk from Osaka Metro Midosuji Line "Umeda" Station
About a 3-minute walk from Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line "Higashi-Umeda" Station
About a 3-minute walk from Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line "Nishi-Umeda" Station