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Don't miss these 8 must-eat popular foods in Dotonbori, Osaka! From snacks to delicious restaurants, everything is in this article.

Update-Date: Dec 23, 2025

Author: Shika

Categories: Okonomiyaki Sushi Sweets

Don't miss these 8 must-eat popular foods in Dotonbori, Osaka! From snacks to delicious restaurants, everything is in this article.

Speaking of Osaka, Dotonbori is a "food paradise" that travelers must visit! From classic okonomiyaki and takoyaki to rich ramen and unique desserts, you can taste all the local specialties of Osaka on just one street. This article introduces 8 must-try popular restaurants around Dotonbori, so you can eat from morning to night without making any mistakes!

Xiaolu

Travel creator from Taiwan based in Japan

Xiaolu | Taiwan native living in Japan
Author of the travel book “搭地鐵玩遍東京 (Exploring Tokyo by Subway)”
A passionate Japan traveler, sharing on Instagram, Facebook and more:
Travel tips × Accommodation recommendations × Self-drive itineraries

Dotonbori Introduction

Dotonbori is one of Osaka's most representative tourist destinations, known for its lively street scenes, delicious food, and neon signs. This canal-side area is home to various delicacies such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, sushi, and desserts, making it a "food paradise" for many travelers. Dotonbori is even more enchanting at night, with neon lights reflecting on the river's surface, combined with the bustling crowds and street performances, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It is just a few minutes' walk from Namba Station and Shinsaibashi Station, making it a must-visit stop during your trip to Osaka and the best place to experience the local charm of the city.

How to get to Dotonbori?

Subway
Taking the subway is the most convenient way to get there.
- Get off at Namba Station on the Osaka Metro; the destination is about a 3–5 minute walk from the station.
- You can also get off at Shinsaibashi Station or Nippombashi Station. Both stations are close to Dotonbori and are about a 5-minute walk away.

JR
If you use West Japan Railway, after getting off at "JR Namba Station", it takes about 8 minutes on foot to reach Dotonbori.

Nankai Electric Railway
After exiting from Nankai Electric Railway "Nankai Namba Station", follow the signs towards Dotonbori, and you will see the famous Glico Running Man sign after about a 5-minute walk.

Dotonbori Gourmet Eight Selections to Share with You

1. Piping Hot Soul Osaka-style Okonomiyaki | Chibo Dotonbori Branch

Speaking of Osaka soul food, you cannot miss okonomiyaki. Founded in 1973, Chibo is a well-known old brand that many Osaka residents also love.

The specialty of the okonomiyaki here is its crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with distinct layers. Each serving is freshly cooked on an iron plate, filling the air with a delightful aroma. The dish I recommend the most is the popular "Mixed Okonomiyaki 2,200 yen," which includes pork, shrimp, and squid all in one, brushed with a special sauce and mayonnaise, accompanied by the sight of dancing bonito flakes, both soothing and tempting!

In addition to the classic Osaka-style okonomiyaki, I also ordered the second most popular "Mentaiko Mayo Cheese Fluffy Grilled (Mentaiko Cheese Osaka-style Okonomiyaki) 1,800 yen"! The thick batter is filled with plenty of mentaiko and rich cheese, and finally drizzled with mayonnaise, it's really super delicious. If you love cheese, you must order this dish.

Chibo Dotonbori Branch
Business hours: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (last order around 10:00 PM)
Days off: No fixed holidays, open year-round.
Average meal price: On weekdays, the average meal is usually around 1,500 yen, and for banquets, it's about 2,500 yen.

2. Takoyaki that you have to queue for | Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka Dotonbori Branch

The pride of Osaka takoyaki, the representative famous store "Wanaka" in Dotonbori is the place I want to recommend this time, located on the busiest street in Dotonbori, very close to the crab restaurant Kani Doraku.

This takoyaki is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with large and chewy pieces of octopus, paired with rich sauce and mayonnaise. The moment you take a bite, the burst of juice and the heat is the most unforgettable taste of traveling in Osaka.

There are many flavors to choose from, and this time I chose the popular flavor "Classic Sauce + Bonito Flakes 650 yen". The classic taste is definitely a safe choice! If you want something lighter, you can also choose "Salt Flavor" to better taste the essence of the takoyaki.

I went at around noon on a weekday this time. Although there was a line, it wasn't too crowded, and I could get my meal quickly!

Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka Dotonbori Branch
Business hours: 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Days off: Days off are not fixed
Average meal price: 650 yen

3. Luxurious snacks that must be eaten at Crab Douraku Dotonbori Main Branch's "Crab Meat Bun"

One of the most prominent landmarks in Dotonbori is the giant crab sign "Kani Doraku." Many people might think that only high-end crab dishes can be eaten here, but in fact, the "Kani Man (crab meat bun) 700 yen" at the entrance is a super popular hidden delicacy!

This crab meat bun has a soft skin and a full filling, packed with crab meat and the aroma of creamy soup, making it extremely satisfying with every bite. You can buy it directly at the store entrance without having to go to a restaurant, making it a must-try snack for many tourists in Dotonbori.
The hot bun filling can be eaten right away, and you can buy it without waiting in line. If you love crabs, you should give it a try! Additionally, please note that cash is not accepted here; only card payments or electronic payments are allowed.

Crab Douraku Dotonbori Main Branch
Business hours: 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Closed: None
Average meal price: 700 yen

4. Late-night ramen that you can eat while staying up late | Kinryu Ramen Dotonbori Branch

The most eye-catching landmark of Kinryu Ramen is the imposing "Kinryu" dragon head neon sign, which undergoes slight changes with the seasons, looking different each time you visit.

The broth of ramen is primarily a rich pork bone base, but it is not overly greasy, with a smooth texture and rich aroma. Kinryu Ramen does not have luxurious interior decorations; instead, its most distinctive feature is the semi-open outdoor space. You will sit on a long bench with travelers from all over the world, enjoying noodles while experiencing the hustle and bustle of Osaka's night atmosphere. This sense of "not sweating the small stuff and focusing on eating noodles" is also a major charm of Jincheng.
It is important to note that Kinryu Ramen accepts cash or electronic payments, and you can place your order using the ordering machine at the entrance. After ordering, you can find a seat inside, and you will quickly be able to enjoy a steaming bowl of noodles.

Kinryu Ramen Dotonbori Branch
Business Hours: Open 24 hours
Days Off: None
Average Meal Price: 800 to 1,100 yen

5. Popular cuisine next to Dotonbori | LE CROISSANT Shinsaibashi Branch

Walking in Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori, it's hard not to be attracted to this small yet fragrant croissant specialty store. Whether it's a weekday afternoon or a holiday, there are always crowds in front of the counter, and almost all passing tourists can't help but stop and buy a bag as a little sweet happiness.

The biggest charm of this store lies in the "freshly baked without interruption" croissants. Each one is mini-sized, just the right bite, with a crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and a fragrant buttery aroma.

This time I bought three flavors from their shop: mentaiko, egg salad, and Okinawan sweet potato Mont Blanc, all priced at 230 yen. I especially like the sweet potato Mont Blanc flavor; the sweet potato is deliciously sweet!

LE CROISSANT Shinsaibashi Branch
Business hours: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Days off: Days off are not fixed
Average meal price: 230 yen

6. Satisfy three kinds of Osaka specialties at once! Takoyaki × Okonomiyaki × Kushikatsu | CREO-RU Dotonbori Branch

Located in Dotonbori, CREO-RU is a popular restaurant where you can enjoy Osaka's three major specialties all at once—takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). It is about a 5-minute walk from Namba Station, with a total of 120 seats available for large gatherings. The takoyaki is made with a batter mixed from seven types of flour, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with creative flavors like soft-boiled egg, plum shiso, and green sauce. The okonomiyaki incorporates brown rice flour and organic cabbage, resulting in a soft texture and rich flavor. The kushikatsu is made with vegetable oil, making it light and not greasy, paired with chewy stir-fried noodles and a variety of drinks, including sake, wine, and cocktails. It is perfect for travelers who want to satisfy all the classic Osaka delicacies at once!

Creo-ru Dotonbori Branch

Open: 10:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Namba Station on Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, Yotsubashi Line, and Sennichimae Line / 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Osaka-Namba Station
Address: 1-6-4, Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Map
More Details Reservation

7. Delicious sushi comes to this place｜Daiki Suisan Kaitenzushi Dotonbori Brnanch

Daiki Suisan Kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) Located in the bustling Dotonbori area of Osaka, about a 5-minute walk from Namba Station, this is a highly popular affordable sushi restaurant. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood delivered directly from the source, including high-quality catches from places like Sakaiminato in Tottori Prefecture, allowing travelers to enjoy sushi at reasonable prices. They occasionally hold a "Tuna Cutting Show" on-site, showcasing their commitment to fresh ingredients. The most popular attraction here is the "Sushi Making Experience," where you can not only make sushi by hand but also get a close-up view of the sushi rice machine, providing a fun and entertaining experience.

Daiki Suisan Kaitenzushi Dotonbori Branch

Open: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: None. Open all year round, even during the year-end and New Year's holidays.
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY
Access: From exit 14 of Namba Station on Midosuji Line, walk along the Dotonbori shopping street for 5 minutes
Address: 1F, Shikairou Dotonbori Bldg., 1-7-24, Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Map
More Details Reservation

8. Want to eat popular desserts, come to this place｜SUIPARA #Dotonbori Ｗaffle

SUIPARA #Dotonbori Ｗaffle is a super popular dessert spot in Osaka recently, famous for its "Bubble Waffle." The freshly baked waffle has a crispy outer layer and a fluffy interior, puffed up like bubbles, paired with colorful toppings that are not only delicious but also perfect for taking photos to share. In addition to the popular bubble waffles, there are customizable heart-shaped sundaes and freshly made chestnut Mont Blanc desserts, which are not only soothing to eat but also full of fun. All the desserts here are available for takeout, and they remain soft and fluffy while you walk, making them just right for enjoying during a stroll.

Daiki Suisan Kaiten Sushi Dotonbori Branch

Conclusion

Dotonbori is not just a landmark in Osaka, but a district where you can experience the charm of the city through your "five senses." From the steaming takoyaki and creative desserts to the dazzling neon night views, every step is full of surprises. With convenient transportation and concentrated attractions, it is very suitable for arranging as a key stop in your journey. When you come to Osaka, be sure to leave some time to personally walk into Dotonbori and feel the liveliest and most authentic side of this city.

This article was written by AI Translation.

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.

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