Discover Hidden Back Alley Restaurants in Osaka and Kyoto 2024/2025

Newly updated 7/11/2024!

Table of Contents

• Tips for Discovering Hidden Gems
• Hidden Gems in Osaka
• Specific Places in Osaka
• Specific Places in Kyoto
• My Favorite Top 3 Restaurants in Osaka
• My Favorite Top 3 Restaurants in Kyoto
• Japanese Restaurant Vocabulary

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Tips for Discovering Hidden Gems

If you're looking for a unique dining experience in Osaka and Kyoto, venturing into the hidden back alley restaurants can be a rewarding adventure. Having lived in Osaka for three years, I've had the privilege of exploring some of these places, and they are great experiences.

Here are some tips and suggestions for discovering these hidden gems:

• Local Recommendations: The best way to discover these hidden restaurants is by asking locals for recommendations. Strike up a conversation with locals or use translation apps to communicate your interest.
• Yokocho Alleys: Both Osaka and Kyoto have yokocho alleys, which are narrow, atmospheric lanes filled with small eateries and bars.
• Izakayas and Yakitori Stands: Look for small izakayas (Japanese pubs) and yakitori stands in less touristy areas.
• OpenTable and Reservations: Some hidden gems accept reservations through platforms like OpenTable.
• Food Tours: Joining a local food tour can be a great way to explore hidden culinary treasures.
• Social Media and Food Blogs: Search for food blogs, Instagram accounts, or YouTube channels dedicated to exploring off-the-beaten-path restaurants in Osaka and Kyoto.
• Trust Your Senses: Sometimes, the best places are the ones you stumble upon while wandering. Follow your nose and intuition as you explore the streets.
• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Even a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in making you more approachable and building rapport with the locals.

Remember to be respectful when you visit these hidden restaurants. Many of them are quite small and may not have English menus or staff who speak English. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases and respecting local customs and traditions will go a long way in ensuring a positive dining experience.

Also, please keep in mind that the restaurant scene in both Osaka and Kyoto can change quite rapidly, so it's a good idea to check for recent recommendations or updates online or from locals when you visit.

Hidden Gems in Osaka

Here are some local areas in Osaka where you can find a lot of hidden gems:

• Tachinomi (Standing Bars): Look for small tachinomi bars in areas like Shinsekai or Ura-Namba. These bars are often tiny and known for serving excellent drinks and small dishes. They are typically frequented by locals.
• Kushikatsu Spots: Try unassuming kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) restaurants in Shinsekai or Tennoji. These places are beloved by locals and serve a variety of crispy skewered delights.
• Okonomiyaki Joints: Seek out local okonomiyaki restaurants, especially in the quieter streets around Dotonbori. Some may not have English menus but offer delicious savory pancakes.
• Izakayas in Shinsaibashi: Explore the alleys around Shinsaibashi for cozy izakayas that cater primarily to Japanese patrons. These spots are ideal for trying a wide range of Japanese dishes.
• Ramen Shops in Kuromon Ichiba: Venture into the back alleys of Kuromon Ichiba Market for lesser-known ramen joints. The market is a hotspot for fresh produce, but hidden ramen shops can be found.
• Yakitori Stands in Tsuruhashi: Tsuruhashi is known for its Korean community, but it also boasts some local yakitori stands in the area's narrow lanes.
• Kappo-style Restaurants: Search for traditional kappo-style dining establishments in upscale neighborhoods like Kitashinchi. These intimate restaurants serve seasonal dishes.
• Local Tempura Spots: In the older districts of Osaka, such as Uemachi, you can find small, family-run tempura restaurants hidden in alleys.
• Soba Noodle Shops in Abeno: Abeno is a district less frequented by tourists, making it an ideal place to discover hidden soba noodle shops loved by locals.
• Local Curry Houses: Explore neighborhoods like Nipponbashi and Horie for small curry houses that offer unique regional variations of curry dishes.

Remember to be respectful when exploring these hidden gems. While they may not be accustomed to foreign visitors, a friendly attitude and willingness to try local customs can lead to memorable dining experiences. Additionally, it's a good idea to have a translation app or some basic Japanese phrases on hand to facilitate communication if English isn't spoken.

Specific Places in Osaka

Here are some more specific places you can visit in Osaka to ensure a nice experience without depending on luck:

• Udon Sanki: This small udon shop in Fukushima Ward is known for its delicious udon noodles made from scratch. The shop has limited seating and a local following.
• Tachinomi Kon: Located in a back alley near Nipponbashi, Tachinomi Sumiya is a standing bar where you can enjoy a variety of grilled skewers and local sake.
• 一月(HITOTSUZUKI): Situated in the Nakazakicho area, Ajihisa specializes in okonomiyaki, a savory pancake. It's a cozy spot with an intimate atmosphere.
• Kariya 串処かりや: Kariya, found in the Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai area, is famous for its kushikatsu, which are deep-fried skewers of various ingredients.
• Osho Club 新世界 串カツ 王将倶楽部: Located in the lively Shinsekai area, this cute little shop specializes in kushikatsu, a local delicacy. They also offer a variety of craft beers to complement your meal. Don't miss their unique "kushikatsu-don," a bowl of rice topped with kushikatsu and a special sauce.
• All-you-can-eat Yakiniku Karubi and Tang Umeda 焼肉食べ放題 カルビとタン 梅田店: Nestled in the bustling Umeda district, this charming restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat experience featuring delicious yakiniku. Indulge in their mouth-watering selection of karubi (short ribs) and tang (beef tongue), all grilled to perfection right at your table. Perfect for a hearty meal with friends or family!
• Nihonshu & Awamori Sakaba Tachimachi 酒場 たちまち: Tucked away in a cozy corner, this delightful bar is perfect for food enthusiasts. They serve a variety of delicious local dishes in small portions, allowing you to sample many different flavors. Pair your food with a wide selection of nihonshu (Japanese sake) and awamori (Okinawan distilled spirit) for an authentic and enjoyable culinary experience.
• Pizzeria Cafe Koberta: Craving some pizza after trying a lot of Japanese food? This is the place to go! A cute little pizza café offering delicious pizzas made in authentic Italian style. It's the perfect spot to satisfy your pizza cravings in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• 重蔵 (Jūzō): This charming soba restaurant, whose name means "Heavy Storehouse," signifies the rich tradition and reliability of their offerings. Known for their handmade noodles crafted in-house, Jūzō serves up some of the most delicious soba in town. The restaurant has a loyal following of regular customers who keep coming back for the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere.
• Pork cutlet Kiccho とんかつ吉兆: This small restaurant in the Kuromon Ichiba Market area is renowned for its katsudon, a Japanese rice bowl dish with breaded and fried pork cutlet.
• Kitarosushi Americamura: Located in the trendy Americamura area, Kitarosushi is known for its affordable but delicious sushi. Please note that they only have handwritten Japanese menus but the staff is very accommodating and helpful.
• Horumon Nakachan (Nishinari) renamed to 酒処KADOYA: Nestled in the vibrant Nishinari area, Kodoya offers a truly unique dining experience. Nishinari is a district brimming with local charm and street food stalls, making it a fascinating destination to explore. While it had a reputation as one of Japan's more challenging areas a couple of decades ago, it has since evolved into a budget-friendly hub for foreigners, especially near Shinsekai. Deeper into the district, you'll encounter a tight-knit community of elderly Japanese residents, adding to the area's distinct character.

Specific Places in Kyoto

Finding truly hidden gems in Kyoto can be a bit more challenging, as Kyoto is a highly visited city, but there are still some local favorites tucked away in back alleys that may not be widely known to tourists. Here are 10 such examples:

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• Izusen: Located in the Daitokuji Temple complex, this vegetarian restaurant serves shojin ryori, a traditional Buddhist cuisine. It's hidden within the temple's serene surroundings.
• Miyagawa Tonemon 宮川豚衛門: Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, this delightful tonkatsu restaurant is a haven for pork cutlet lovers. The name 宮川豚衛門 (Miyagawa Tonemon) highlights its specialty, with "豚" meaning "pork" in Japanese. Renowned for its perfectly crispy and flavorful tonkatsu, this cozy spot attracts both locals and visitors eager to savor its delicious offerings in a warm and inviting setting.
• Men-doraku Dai 麺道楽 大: Men-doraku Dai, which translates to "Noodle Paradise - Dai," embodies a place where noodle enthusiasts can indulge in a wide array of delicious noodle dishes. The name reflects their dedication to providing a paradise-like experience for noodle lovers, offering a variety of flavorful and satisfying noodle options in a welcoming atmosphere.
• Kyoto Ito 京都 いと: Kyoto Ito offers a unique fusion of Kaiseki and world cuisine, providing a fine dining experience that blends traditional Japanese flavors with international influences. Known for its exquisite dishes and elegant ambiance, Kyoto Ito invites guests to indulge in a culinary journey that harmonizes local Kyoto ingredients with global culinary techniques, promising a memorable dining experience.
• Kyoto Saryo: Located in the Gion area, this tea house offers a serene and authentic Japanese tea experience, including matcha and wagashi (traditional sweets).
• Kanamean Nishitomiya: This traditional ryokan (inn) in the Gion area has a hidden restaurant known for its kaiseki (multi-course) meals. While it's not entirely unknown, it's less frequented by tourists.
• Menya Inoichi: A tiny ramen shop hidden in a back alley near Kyoto Station, it's popular among locals for its rich and flavorful ramen.
• Sojiki Nakahigashi: Located near Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), this kaiseki restaurant offers a seasonal menu and a serene atmosphere away from the crowds.
• Giro Giro Hitoshina: This modern kaiseki restaurant is hidden in the historic Gion district and offers a unique, contemporary take on traditional Japanese cuisine.
• Kichisen: This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its kaiseki cuisine. Although it’s not entirely hidden and is well-regarded, I personally would not recommend it. In my experience, it does not quite live up to the Michelin star rating.

Please note that while these restaurants are not necessarily unknown to foreigners, they tend to be popular among Japanese locals and may offer a more authentic and less touristy dining experience compared to some of the more well-known spots in Kyoto. Reservations are often necessary for many of these places, so be sure to plan ahead.

My Favorite Top 3 Restaurants in Osaka

1. Tenryu-ramen Hassenro: Located in Osaka's Nishinari district, near the Tsutenkaku area in Shinsekai, Tenryu-ramen Hassenro offers a unique ramen experience in a neighborhood known for its gritty reputation. Despite the area's rough edge, the restaurant stands out for its traditional, locally-inspired ramen. The broth is rich and slightly oily, which adds to its authentic flavor. The Gyoza ramen set, paired with a draft beer, is a highlight and adds a satisfying touch to the meal.
2. Okonomiyaki Usagiya: Tucked away on a small side street in front of Tsutenkaku Tower in Shinsekai, Osaka, Okonomiyaki Usagiya may not look like much from the outside, but it’s a hidden gem. This traditional and charming okonomiyaki restaurant offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of savory options, including beef and seafood. Despite its unassuming exterior, the restaurant's authentic flavors and friendly service make it a standout spot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
3. Udon Sanki: Nestled in Fukushima Ward, Udon Sanki is a beloved local spot known for its delicious udon noodles made from scratch. Though the shop is small with limited seating, it has a strong following among locals who appreciate its authentic flavors. I was introduced to this gem by a Japanese coworker, and its cozy, unassuming atmosphere only adds to its charm. Udon Sanki offers a true taste of homemade udon in a setting that feels both welcoming and intimate. Here you can find a guide on how to order using the fully Japanese ticket machine.

My Favorite Top 3 Restaurants in Kyoto

1. Kagizen Yoshifusa Kodaiji: is a historic Kyoto confectionery shop with roots dating back to the Edo period. Located in a tranquil area of the city, it offers traditional Japanese sweets like kuzukiri in a serene setting, providing a perfect escape from the usual tourist spots.
2. Honke Owariya Main Branch: Specialty: Known for its traditional soba dishes, including the famous "宝来そば" (Hourai Soba), which comes with a variety of toppings.
   Experience: Offers a classic Kyoto experience with a variety of soba and tempura dishes. The setting is authentic and the prices are reasonable.
3. Kyoudon Kisoba Okakita: Specialty: Traditional Kyoto-style udon, featuring a soft and thin texture that complements its flavorful dashi.
   Experience: Known for its delicate udon and well-balanced dashi, this spot offers a tranquil atmosphere and an authentic taste of Kyoto.

Japanese Restaurant Vocabulary

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