Chef Shota Nakajima, born in Tokyo and raised in Seattle, calls Osaka his favorite food city in Japan. At just 18, he went to the Tsuji Culinary Institute in Osaka, known as the “Harvard of cooking schools.” Now a successful chef and TV contestant (seen on Top Chef and Beat Bobby Flay), he shares his favorite food spots in Osaka—the city known as “the kitchen of Japan.”
🍱 Best Places to Eat in Osaka
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Naniwa Kappo Kigawa
A traditional kappo-style restaurant in a small alley. Chefs serve you right at the counter! -
Gochisou Nene
A cozy place for tempura and oden, run by a talented chef couple. -
Hajime
A Michelin three-star French restaurant with a creative twist. -
Bar Yoshida
A classy bar in Kitashinchi—great for cocktails and relaxing vibes. -
Tsutenkaku Neighborhood
Known for kushi katsu (fried skewers) and doteyaki (slow-cooked beef tendon). -
Sakamoto
A special spot where Shota worked. Try the beef katsu with creamy pork sauce!
🏨 Where to Stay: Waldorf Astoria Osaka
This new luxury hotel opened in April. Designed by famous architect André Fu, it mixes Art Deco style with traditional Japanese design. The hotel’s restaurant Tsukimi offers teppanyaki and tea pairings, and Shota is excited to try their Wagyu beef from Ishigaki Island.
Whether you’re into street food or fine dining, Osaka has it all!
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