The Best Restaurants in Dotonbori, The Ultimate Tourist’s Guide

Dotonbori, the lively heart of Osaka, is a food lover’s dream. With its bright lights and busy streets, this area is famous for its wide variety of restaurants.

In this article, we’ll show you 20 of the best places to eat in Dotonbori. Whether you want wagyu beef, takoyaki, sushi, okonomiyaki, or ramen, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re wondering, “What to eat?” or “Where to go?”, this guide is for you. Get ready to explore delicious food in Dotonbori—great meals are waiting for you!

Features of Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a unique and exciting area that offers a lot to visitors. Here are some key features that make it special:

1. Bright Neon Lights: The streets of Dotonbori are famous for their colorful neon signs. The iconic Glico Man sign is a must-see!
2. Delicious Street Food: From takoyaki to okonomiyaki, Dotonbori is known for its tasty street food. You can enjoy these snacks while walking along the lively streets.
3. Variety of Restaurants: There are countless restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to high-end dining. You can find everything from traditional Japanese dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
4. Bustling Atmosphere: The energy in Dotonbori is contagious. The lively crowds, street performers, and unique shops create a fun and exciting environment.
5. Riverside Views: The Dotonbori Canal adds to the charm of the area. You can take a relaxing stroll along the water or enjoy a boat ride.

These features make Dotonbori a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Osaka’s food culture!

Where is Dotonbori area

Dotonbori is located in the Namba district of Osaka, Japan. It’s easily accessible and situated near several major train stations, but the most convenient one for tourists is Namba Station.

With its central location, Dotonbori is a great starting point for discovering other parts of Osaka. Whether you’re coming from the airport or other neighborhoods, you’ll find it easy to reach.

The Best Restaurants in Dotonbori

Find the top restaurants in and around Dotonbori. From tasty Japanese street food to fantastic dining experiences, Dotonbori has countless great places to eat. This guide will help you choose the best spots for a memorable meal in one of Osaka’s most exciting areas.

▼You can find the best restaurants in Dotonbori introduced here on the map below

1.Kani Doraku Dotonbori

Kani Doraku is a specialty restaurant chain known for its crab dishes. The flagship store in Dotonbori, Osaka, is especially famous, easily recognized by its large, moving crab sign, making it a well-known tourist attraction.

Kani Doraku is committed to quality, featuring live crab tanks in the restaurant. They source fresh, live crabs from various regions, ensuring that customers enjoy the highest quality crab with unmatched freshness.

Restaurant information
Average price	Lunch: 4,000 – 6,000 JPY (27.49 – 41.24 USD) Dinner: 9,000 – 15,000 JPY (61.86 – 103.10 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m. -10:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-6-18 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

2.Kushikatsu Daruma Dotonbori Store

Kushikatsu Daruma is a long-established and extremely popular restaurant known as the originator of kushikatsu, one of Osaka’s local foods.

The crispy batter coating juicy meat and vegetables, dipped in their special sauce, creates an unforgettable taste. Kushikatsu Daruma offers a wide variety of kushikatsu and has several locations throughout Osaka.

Restaurant information
Average price	2,000 – 3,000 JPY (13.61 – 20.42 USD)
Operation hours	11:30a.m. -10:30p.m.
Reservation	Available *Only weeekdays by 6pm
Address	1-6-8 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka City. Map

3.Kinryu Ramen Midosuji

Kinryu Ramen Midosuji is well-known for the dragon on its sign. The rich, flavorful broth is made from pork bones and seasoned with a secret sauce. The noodles are straight and homemade. It’s also a popular spot among travelers.

One sip of the rich pork bone broth fills your mouth with deep umami flavor. The light chashu pairs perfectly with the rich soup, creating a refined balance. Free condiments like kimchi, garlic chives, and garlic are available, letting you customize the flavor to your liking.

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 JPY (6.88 USD)
Operation hours	Open 24 hours
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1-7-12 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka. Map

For more information including the menu, reservation guide, best times to visit, and reviews, please check the link below.
▶︎Why Kinryu Ramen So Popular? A Review For Travelers

4.Okonomiyaki Chibo Dotonbori

Okonomiyaki Chibo is an okonomiyaki restaurant chain with over 50 locations worldwide. Among the many okonomiyaki restaurants in Dotonbori, it’s one of the most popular, with lines forming nearly all day. You can watch your okonomiyaki being prepared right in front of you, making it a perfect spot to fully experience Osaka’s okonomiyaki culture.

Chibo’s okonomiyaki offers an authentic Osaka experience. The chefs at Chibo prepare the batter fresh after each order, carefully incorporating air while cooking to create a fluffy texture. The original sauce pairs perfectly with mayonnaise, making this a must-visit spot in Dotonbori.

Restaurant information
Average price	2,000 – 3,000 JPY (13.14- 19.72 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m. – 11:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-5-5 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Dotonbori Building, 1st–6th floors. Map

For more information including the menu, reservation guide, best times to visit, and reviews, please check the link below.
▶︎Why Chibo Okonomiyaki So Popular? A Review For Osaka Travelers

5.Genroku Sushi Dotonbori Store

Genroku Sushi is the original conveyor belt sushi restaurant, credited with inventing this style of sushi in Japan. Located in the heart of Dotonbori, it’s easily recognized by its large sushi sign. This popular sushi spot attracts many international tourists throughout the day.

At Genroku Sushi, you can enjoy a wide variety of sushi at affordable prices. Since it’s a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, you can either pick sushi directly from the belt or order exactly what you want. If you want to experience the original conveyor belt sushi, this is a must-visit spot.

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 – 2,000 JPY (6.88 – 13.14 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m. – 10:30p.m.
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1-6-9 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

6.Gyu-Kaku Dotonbori Store

Gyu-Kaku is one of Japan’s most famous BBQ-style yakiniku restaurants. It’s especially popular for its all-you-can-eat menu, offering delicious grilled meat at a reasonable price. With so many yakiniku restaurants in Osaka, if you’re unsure where to go, Gyu-Kaku is a great choice.

Restaurant information
Average price	3,000 – 4,000 JPY (20.89 – 27.85 USD)
Operation hours	Lunch: 11:30a.m. – 3:00p.m. Dinner: 5:00p.m – 0:00a.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-6-10 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka City. Map

7.Creo-Ru Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki Dotonbori

Creo-ru is a restaurant where you can enjoy Osaka specialties such as okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and steak. They also have a stand in front of the restaurant selling takoyaki, which you can easily grab for takeout. You can also enjoy takoyaki inside the restaurant, making it a great place to try all of Osaka’s famous dishes in one spot.

Creo-ru’s takoyaki is made by blending seven different types of flour (takoyaki mix) and cooking it quickly on a special hot plate. This results in a crispy outside and a fluffy inside. In addition to the classic takoyaki sauce flavor, you can also enjoy a variety of tastes, including dashi soy sauce and a combination of sauce and soy sauce, making for a delightful tasting experience.

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 – 2,000 JPY (6.88 – 13.76 USD)
Operation hours	10:00a.m. – 11:00p.m.
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1 Chome-6-4 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

Curious about the best takoyaki in Namba and Dotonbori? Check out the article below!
▶︎The Best Takoyaki in Namba, Dotonbori. The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide.

8.Gyozaoh! Dotonbori

Gyozaoh! Dotonbori is a gyoza(dumplings) specialty restaurant chain with multiple locations in Osaka, dedicated to gyoza for over 50 years. The restaurant is often bustling with international tourists, making it a very traveler-friendly spot.

Gyozaoh! Dotonbori’s gyoza has an excellent reputation, consistently receiving high ratings on various review sites. These delicious dumplings are filled with plenty of meat and fresh, crunchy vegetables, then expertly grilled by skilled staff. Be sure to try these exceptional gyoza!

Restaurant information
Average price	2,000 – 3,000 JPY (13.14- 19.72 USD)
Operation hours	5:00p.m – 11:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	2-4-14 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

9.Takoyaki Wanaka Dotonbori

Wanaka is one of the most popular takoyaki shops in Osaka. The secret to Wanaka’s delicious takoyaki lies in its batter, made with finely milled flour and a perfect balance of dashi and salt, creating an exquisite flavor. You can find Wakana not only in Dotonbori and Namba, but also in many locations throughout Osaka.

Wakana’s takoyaki is cooked quickly at high temperatures on a hot iron plate, resulting in a crispy outer layer and a soft, gooey center. In addition to their signature sauce, you can also enjoy different flavors like dashi soy sauce, spicy sauce, and ponzu. With these options, you’ll always have something new to try each time you visit!

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 – 2,000 JPY (6.71 – 13.43 USD)
Operation hours	Weekdays: 11:00a.m. – 9:00p.m. Weekends: 10:30a.m. – 9:00p.m.
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1 Chome-6-7 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

10.Wagyu Idaten

Opened in July 2023, Wagyu Idaten is a “Ju” specialist in Osaka, which are bento-style meals featuring premium Wagyu beef served over rice. The unique entrance, featuring samurai armor, modern Japanese interior, making it a perfect dining spot for tourists.

This A5 Ju features the tender thigh cut, Uchihira, offering a rich sweetness unique to high-grade Wagyu. Watching the chef expertly grill the meat behind the counter is a thrilling experience. Pairing it with egg yolk further elevates the flavor, making it a must-try dish.

Restaurant information
Average price	2,000 – 3,000 JPY (13.61 – 20.42 USD)
Operation hours	11:30a.m. -2:30p.m. (Lunch time) 5:00p.m. – 9:30p.m.(Dinner time)
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	2F Yoshimitsu Building, 1-8-20 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City. Map

For more information including the menu, reservation guide, best times to visit, and reviews, please check the link below.
▶︎The Truth About Wagyu Idaten Osaka: A No-Holds-Barred Review

11.Kobe Beef Wanomiya Dotonbori

Kobe Beef Wanomiya Dotonbori offers Kobe beef at reasonable prices by purchasing whole A5-grade Kobe cattle. At the counter seats, you can enjoy the live experience of watching the chef grill the meat in front of you. Additionally, on the first floor, you can buy takeaway items, allowing you to easily enjoy Kobe beef on the go.

The Restaurant information
Average price	5,000 – 100,000 JPY (34.74 – 694.76 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m. – 11:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-5-2 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka City. Map

Looking for a place to enjoy Kobe beef in Dotonbori? If so, be sure to check out the article below!
▶︎Top Kobe Beef Restaurants in Dotonbori, Namba: A Must-Try for Wagyu Lovers

12.Okonomiyaki Ajinoya Honten

Okonomiyaki Ajinoya Honten is one of Osaka’s most popular okonomiyaki restaurants and was selected as one of the top 100 okonomiyaki restaurants in 2022. Guests can enjoy the live experience of watching skilled staff cook okonomiyaki right in front of them.

Ajinoya’s okonomiyaki is made with plenty of cabbage, resulting in a crispy outside and fluffy inside. The interior of the restaurant has a retro Japanese design, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of traditional Japanese culture.

The Restaurant information
Average price	3,000 JPY (20.42 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m. – 10:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-7-16 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

13.Hanamaruken Ramen Hozenji

Hanamaruken is a popular ramen shop directly managed by a butcher. You can enjoy their signature ramen 24 hours a day, with their melt-in-your-mouth chashu (braised pork) being the standout feature that brings happiness with every bite.

Additionally, they offer generous services such as free large noodle portions, free kimchi, and garlic, making the experience even more satisfying. The soup is a rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth with little odor, making it surprisingly light despite its appearance. It’s a great choice for those trying ramen for the first time.

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 JPY (6.88 USD)
Operation hours	Open 24 hours
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1-2-1 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

For more information including the menu, reservation guide, best times to visit, and reviews, please check the link below.
▶︎Hanamaruken Ramen Review: The Ultimate 24-Hour Ramen Shop in Dotonbori, Osaka

14.Kukuru Dotonbori Honten

Kukuru, a takoyaki shop famous for its large octopus sign in Dotonbori, is a popular spot among tourists and a must-visit when in the area. Takoyaki Kukuru has several locations across Osaka, with the most popular ones among international tourists being the Dotonbori Main Store, Soemoncho Store, Dotonbori Minami Store, and Shinsaibashi Store. 

Kukuru’s takoyaki is fluffy on the outside and deliciously creamy on the inside. The takoyaki is topped with their original sweet and savory sauce, making it even more delicious.

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 – 2,000 JPY (6.88 – 13.76 USD)
Operation hours	Weekdays: Noon – 7:00p.m. Weekends: 11:00a.m – 8:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	Hakua Building 1F, 1-10-5 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City. Map

For more information including the menu, reservation guide, best times to visit, and reviews, please check the link below.
▶︎The Best Takoyaki in Dotonbori? Kukuru Review

15.Imai Dotonbori Honten

Kitsune udon is a must-try dish when visiting Osaka, and one of the most famous places to enjoy it is Dotonbori Imai Honten. Located in the bustling Dotonbori area, Imai stands out with its traditional Japanese interior, offering a unique experience to enjoy its signature kitsune udon.

Imai takes great pride in its kitsune udon, especially in the freshness of its dashi. The broth is made multiple times a day in batches of 30 servings, ensuring maximum freshness and a refined yet rich flavor. In addition to udon, a variety of Japanese dishes are available, making it well worth a visit.

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 – 2,000 JPY (6.88 – 13.76 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m – 9:30p.m.
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1-7-22 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

For more information including the menu, reservation guide, best times to visit, and reviews, please check the link below.
▶︎The Truth About Imai Dotonbori: A Detailed Review for Tourists

16.Okonomiyaki Mizuno

Okonomiyaki Mizuno is a long-established okonomiyaki restaurant representing Osaka, founded in 1945. It attracts many tourists daily, often resulting in long lines. Mizuno has also been awarded a spot in the Top 100 Okonomiyaki Restaurants for three consecutive years since 2022.

Mizuno’s okonomiyaki is distinguished by its generous use of ingredients sourced from Kuromon Market, known as Osaka’s kitchen. Each ingredient is large and flavorful, complementing the rich sauce while allowing the natural taste of the ingredients to shine through. If you’re looking for okonomiyaki in Dotonbori, this is a must-add to your list.

Restaurant information
Average price	2,000 JPY (13.76 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m – 10:00p.m.
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1-4-15 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

You can find the best okonomiyaki spots in Dotonbori below!
▶︎Best Okonomiyaki in Dotonbori. The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide.

17.Yakiniku Kitan Hozenji

Yakiniku Kitan Hozenji is a yakiniku(BBQ) restaurant renovated from a 120-year-old Japanese restaurant, attracting many tourists and locals and always long lines. The interior, which allows you to feel Japanese culture, creates a great atmosphere, and you can enjoy yakiniku in private rooms, making it a perfect yakiniku restaurant for families and couples.

Yakiniku Kitan sources Japanese Wagyu directly from producers nationwide, allowing you to enjoy various cuts of meat. The prices are reasonable for Wagyu yakiniku, making it easy to visit casually. It is a must-visit restaurant for those who want to enjoy Wagyu yakiniku.

Restaurant information
Average price	10,000 JPY (64.71 USD)
Operation hours	Lunch : 11:00a.m – 3:00p.m. Dinner : 5:00p.m – 11:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-7-12 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

18.Hariju Grill Dotonbori Honten

Hariju Grill Dotonbori Honten is a specialty restaurant for Kuroge Wagyu, offering sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, steak, and more. With over 100 years of history, Hariju is a beloved establishment among both locals and tourists. The interior and service have the feel of a high-end ryokan, allowing you to enjoy premium, domestically sourced Kuroge Wagyu.

Hariju is committed to quality, using only female Kuroge Wagyu. Female cattle have a finer texture and lower fat melting point, offering a melt-in-your-mouth sensation and rich umami flavor.

Restaurant information
Average price	10,000 JPY (64.71 USD)
Operation hours	11:30a.m – 9:00p.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	1-9-17 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

19.Dotonbori Sumibi-Yakiniku Mitsuru

Dotonbori Sumibi-Yakiniku Mitsuru is one of the largest yakiniku restaurants in Dotonbori, with multiple floors offering different seating options: table seating on the second floor, spacious tatami rooms for groups on the third floor, and a popular fourth floor for couples.

Dotonbori Sumibi-Yakiniku Mitsuru purchases whole Kuroge Wagyu cattle, allowing guests to enjoy not only popular cuts like kalbi and loin but also rare cuts at reasonable prices. The charcoal grilling adds a delightful smoky aroma that enhances the Wagyu’s natural sweetness, making for an incredibly delicious experience.

Restaurant information
Average price	5,000 JPY (32.70 USD)
Operation hours	11:00a.m – 5:00a.m.
Reservation	Available
Address	Shibata Building 2F, 1-5-8 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Map

20.Andrew’s Eggtart Dotonbori

Andrew’s Egg Tart is a treat that came to Japan from Macau around 20 years ago. It’s highly popular among tourists visiting Dotonbori, who often take it to go and enjoy it while strolling around.

This irresistible treat features a flaky tart crust filled with rich, egg-flavored custard cream. Once you try it, you’ll want to come back for more!

Restaurant information
Average price	1,000 JPY (6.88 USD)
Operation hours	10:00a.m – 0:00a.m.
Reservation	Unavailable
Address	1-10-6 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka. Map

Conclusion

Dotonbori is a must-visit destination in Osaka, renowned for its vibrant food scene, from fresh sushi and savory takoyaki to mouthwatering wagyu and more. These restaurants are beloved by both visitors and locals alike.

The top spots introduced here promise an unforgettable Dotonbori dining experience. Be sure to try these recommendations and enjoy the authentic flavors of Osaka!

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