Picture a city where the aroma of sizzling street food wafts through narrow alleyways, where the clinking of chopsticks against bowls orchestrates a symphony of flavours, and where Michelin stars don’t necessarily equate to breaking the bank. Welcome to Osaka, Japan, a haven for foodies and a place where gastronomy transcends mere sustenance to become a cultural masterpiece. This is a city with a title that carries weight: “The Nation’s Kitchen,” a testament to its enduring role as the epicentre of Japanese cuisine. According to the Travel Trends Report 2024 by Skyscanner, here’s why Osaka is the ultimate foodie’s haven!
Why Is Osaka ‘The Nation’s Kitchen’?
Back in the Edo Period (1601–1867), Osaka played a pivotal role in Japanese culinary history. It earned the moniker ‘The Nation’s Kitchen’ as it served as a central hub for receiving the finest goods from all corners of Japan, destined for shipment to other parts of the country. Dashi stock, the heart and soul of Japanese cuisine, was perfected in Osaka. It became the foundation upon which Japan’s diverse and delectable dishes were built. Today, Osaka continues this legacy by offering quality food that caters to all budgets.
The City’s Culinary Riches
With the city ranking fourth in the world for cities with the most Michelin stars, you’re in for an extraordinary dining experience. Here are some top tips to navigate Osaka’s food scene:
- Michelin Stars Galore
Osaka boasts a staggering 93 Michelin-starred restaurants, with 80 one-star establishments. This means you can experience fine dining without emptying your pockets. Among these, three-star restaurants like Kashiwaya offer exquisite meals that won’t break the bank. At Kashiwaya, you can indulge in ‘The Tale of the Four Seasons’ for a mere 12137 INR, a true bargain for a three-star Michelin restaurant.
- Affordable Eateries
Osaka’s culinary diversity goes beyond Michelin stars. You’ll find a multitude of Bib Gourmand restaurants serving high-quality and affordable options like ramen and okonomiyaki, the savoury Japanese pancakes. These establishments allow you to savour local flavours without straining your wallet.
- Yakitori Delight
Ayamuya is the cheapest one-star restaurant in Osaka. It is renowned for its Yakitori, succulent skewered chicken dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. Enjoy an average dinner price of 3035 INR and relish this local favourite.
- Tempura Perfection
Shintaro is a must-visit for tempura enthusiasts. Their dedication to simplicity allows seasonal ingredients to shine in every dish. With an average price for lunch at 3237 INR and dinner at 7080 INR, you can experience tempura at its best.
What’s Cooking In Osaka?
In addition to the splendid culinary offerings, Osaka also hosts exciting food events in the coming years:
- Time Out Market
The first Time Out Market in Asia is set to feature some of the best chefs, food, drinks, and cultural experiences. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the city’s gastronomic treasures in one place.
- World Food Expo
This international food extravaganza is held every four years. It promises a global culinary journey, featuring not only Japanese cuisine but flavours from around the world. It’s a testament to Osaka’s position as a foodie destination that transcends borders.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure
Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or just beginning to explore the world of Japanese cuisine, Osaka’s culinary scene offers something for everyone. With affordable high-end restaurants, countless Michelin stars, and a cultural devotion to food, this city stands as ‘The Nation’s Kitchen’ for a reason. So pack your appetite and embark on a foodie adventure of a lifetime in Osaka.
Osaka is waiting to delight your senses, one delectable bite at a time!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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