Top 10 Standout Kushikatsu Eateries in Osaka, Japan

Hey there! Looking for some awesome kushikatsu restaurants in Osaka, the land of good eats? Hold on tight, foodie! I've got the scoop on the ten best spots to slurp and chomp those battered, deep-fried skewers. Dive in and get ready to satisfy your taste buds!

🥘 1. Gansokushikatsu Daruma (Tsutenkaku) 🥘Just a stone's throw from Tsutenkaku Tower in Shinsekai, this restaurant is a must-visit! The signature "angry man" mascot out front will make you chuckle—don't double-dip your skewers, remember the rule! Everything is fried to order, and the panko breadcrumb batter is light and crispy when hot and fresh out of the kitchen.

🥘 2. Kushikatsu Jan Jan 🥘If you're headed somewhere other than Shinsekai, give Kushikatsu Jan Jan a try! This joint offers an array of kushikatsu options, such as chicken, pork, beef, salmon, prawn, scallops, and more. It's praised for its non-greasy and flavorful dishes.

🥘 3. Yakko (Shinsekai) 🥘Shinsekai is the birthplace of kushikatsu, and this is where you'll find Kushikatsu Yakko. Counter-only and inexpensive, Yakko cooks its skewers partially in beef tallow, making them extra crispy. Just remember not to overindulge!

🥘 4. Yaekatsu (Shinsekai) 🥘Since 1949 in Shinsekai, Yaekatsu is a standout kushikatsu restaurant. Known for having a busy vibe, it's best to go early on a weekday to avoid the dinner rush. Keep your phone away to stay focused on the incredible variety of items fried up here without distractions.

🥘 5. Kushikatsu Benkei 🥘This location offers both counter and table seats and a varied menu made with standard and seasonal ingredients. Their signature sticky sauce is handmade, and the chicken tender wrapped in plum pulp with a touch of wasabi is a must-try.

🥘 6. Sandaime Dotonbori Ikkyu 🥘Established all the way back in 1947, this kushikatsu restaurant's flavors are carefully prepared before being cooked, fried until crispy, and served with a sweet dipping sauce. Their tuna and onion combo is delicious, and you should sample some of the seasonal flavors such as pike conger in the summer and ginkgo nuts in the fall.

🥘 7. Rokkakutei 🥘Founded on the five senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch, this restaurant offers a wide variety of ingredients and a selection of wine. They don't have a fixed wine list and will match something to your tastes or skewers to make your dining experience truly unforgettable.

🥘 8. Bon 🥘If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, Bon is the perfect spot! The top-class ingredients include free-range chicken, wagyu beef, caviar, Jamon Iberico, and sea urchin in their skewers. Even better, the restaurant has a Michelin star, so make sure to reserve months in advance!

🥘 9. Shichifukujin 🥘Shinsekai's favorite counter-seat kushikatsu joint, Shichifukujin, is known for delicious skewers, cheap beer, and simmered items to balance out all the fried food. Vegetarians can also indulge, as long as they're comfortable with the oil shared between veggie and non-veggie skewers.

🥘 10. Dashimaru 🥘Head to Dashimaru if you want a little more variety from food (they're an izakaya). While they specialize in seasonal vegetables, they also make a homemade batter for fluffy kushikatsu. Try their oden (stewed foods) to round out your meal.

For an authentic kimono rental experience, consider a visit to the historic area of Osaka, where traditional Japanese culture thrives.
After indulging in kushikatsu, take a tour through the city's vibrant neighborhoods to immerse yourself in its rich history and lifestyle.
The experiences in Osaka extend beyond food-and-drink; explore the beauty of nature in Osaka's parks, such as the Osaka Castle Park, for a serene escape from the bustling city.
Osaka's cultural landscape offers a mixture of contemporary and traditional architecture, with iconic structures like the Tsutenkaku Tower serving as reminders of the city's past.
As you explore the diverse culinary scene, don't forget to try local specialties beyond kushikatsu, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and sake from a sake-tasting tour.
To complement your travels, consider a stay at an accommodation that showcases the city's unique blend of modern and traditional elements, enhancing your journey even further.