Kukuru: A Legendary Takoyaki Restaurant from Dotonbori to All of Japan
Osaka is Japan's second-largest city after Tokyo. About 7% of Japan's population and approximately 10% of foreigners living in Japan reside in Osaka.
Known as the "City of Kuidaore" (eating until you drop), Osaka has developed its unique food culture and is famous as a gourmet city. Besides Osaka's signature affordable and delicious dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, the neighboring areas such as Nada, Itami, and Ikeda are known for producing premium sake.
As the birthplace of Osaka's famous "takoyaki," the city boasts numerous high-quality takoyaki shops. Among them, "Dotonbori Kukuru," known for its eye-catching giant octopus object, has become famous and has spread its popularity from Osaka throughout Japan.
In this article, we'll introduce the appeal of the Dotonbori takoyaki shop "Kukuru" and its recommended menu items!
About Kukuru: From Dotonbori to a National Sensation
Kukuru's predecessor opened in Dotonbori in 1985, and it has now grown into a specialized octopus dish restaurant chain with over 50 locations nationwide.
The restaurant is beloved for its signature dishes, including the satisfying "large octopus" and the fluffy-textured famous "takoyaki," as well as "Akashiyaki" eaten dipped in dashi broth and "Takoyameshi" cooked in-store.
The "giant octopus sign" displayed at the Dotonbori main store has become one of Dotonbori's landmarks due to its impressive appearance. It's a must-visit spot when touring Osaka.
What is Takoyaki?
Takoyaki is made by pouring batter (wheat flour mixed with dashi stock and eggs) into round molds on an iron plate, adding octopus, and cooking it into ball shapes. It's topped with sweet, rich sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed.
Takoyaki evolved from "choboyaki," which used to be sold at candy stores, and "Akashiyaki," which is eaten with dashi broth. Today, takoyaki is loved as Osaka's soul food.
In its hometown of Osaka, you can also enjoy takoyaki with different toppings like ponzu sauce, offering a unique twist on the traditional dish.
Why is Kukuru's Takoyaki Popular? A Detailed Explanation of Their Secret Techniques
Special Flour Creates a Fluffy Texture and Melting Sensation
Kukuru's takoyaki is popular for its combination of springy large octopus pieces inside and a texture that's fluffy on the outside and creamy on the inside. The batter, made with a perfect ratio of original special flour and eggs, allows you to taste the dashi's flavor from the first bite.
Furthermore, the takoyaki artisans quickly rotate the takoyaki using special picks, ensuring they don't overcook and maintain their fluffy texture.
The deliciousness truly comes from both the carefully selected ingredients and the artisans' cooking techniques!
The Batter Contains Yam, Eggs, and White Wine as a Secret Ingredient
Kukuru's delicious takoyaki is created through various innovations and particular attention to detail.
For example, adding yam and eggs to the batter makes it even fluffier. A splash of white wine is added at the end for extra flavor.
The president's proud takoyaki is made using meticulously selected ingredients and cooking methods.
Large, Satisfying Cuts of Octopus
Source: WALKER PLUS
One of Kukuru's secrets to deliciousness is the large cuts of octopus, which provide a satisfying bite.
They use natural octopus rich in umami components and minerals, kept fresh through onboard freezing. This allows customers to enjoy both the springy texture of fresh octopus and the umami that releases with each bite.
Only a specialized octopus restaurant's knowledge and dedication can bring out the true deliciousness of octopus. Even those who have never tried octopus before will be amazed by its taste.
Entertainment Value: Watch the Dynamic Cooking Process!
Source: Dotonbori Shopping Street
Kukuru's philosophy is "Takoyaki is entertainment." Beyond just tasting good, it's also visually entertaining.
Watch as takoyaki artisans quickly rotate the takoyaki with their picks. Pay attention to the moment when the large octopus pieces are dramatically added. You'll be mesmerized from this point until the round takoyaki is completed.
This is the entertainment that Kukuru offers! Beyond deliciousness, Kukuru's charm lies in providing surprise and enjoyment.
3 Popular Dishes at Kukuru Dotonbori! Carefully Selected Local Favorites to Try
Takoyaki with Giant Octopus Pieces
Source: Uber Eats
The most popular dish at Kukuru Dotonbori is the “Takoyaki with Giant Octopus Pieces.” If you’re visiting Osaka, this is a must-try! The exterior is crispy, while the inside is creamy and filled with juicy, satisfying large pieces of octopus. Enjoy the rich umami flavor of the dashi and experience the freshly made deliciousness.
Top it with Kukuru’s original sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed to customize the flavor to your liking. Just one bite will bring a sense of happiness—this takoyaki is a true delight!
Special Recipe Akashiyaki
Source: Retty
Akashiyaki, another popular dish, stands side by side with takoyaki. Unlike takoyaki, it’s served with a dashi-based dipping soup instead of sauce. Interestingly, Akashiyaki is the predecessor of takoyaki, having been sold before takoyaki became popular.
Kukuru's Akashiyaki uses a batter rich in eggs, creating a soft and fluffy texture. Dip it into the special dashi and enjoy! This dish has a long-standing fan base since Kukuru's early days, thanks to its light texture and delicious broth. It’s one of my personal favorites, as the umami from the dashi always whets my appetite. Try comparing it with takoyaki to fully appreciate both!
Takoyaki Yakisoba
Source: Tabelog
Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles with vegetables and pork) is a familiar dish to most Japanese people. Kukuru’s Takoyaki Yakisoba combines the thick, chewy Kansai-style noodles with their signature rich, sweet-and-salty sauce.
Unlike typical yakisoba, which often includes ingredients like pork, shrimp, or squid, Kukuru’s original version features pieces of octopus in addition to pork, adding a unique twist. To top it off, they use flavorful Kurobuta (Berkshire pork), making this dish exceptionally luxurious.
For those who want to enjoy more than just takoyaki, this is a great option to experience another classic Japanese dish.
3 Exclusive Menu Items You Must Try When Visiting Osaka
Surprise Takoyaki (Available Only at the Main Store)
Source: Tabelog
If you're visiting Dotonbori, my top recommendation is the “Surprise Takoyaki,” exclusively available at the main store. While the famous “Takoyaki with Giant Octopus Pieces” already contains large octopus chunks, this dish takes it up a notch by using an even larger octopus that overflows from the batter. When you see it served, you'll be amazed!
This is a photogenic dish that you'll want to capture on camera. Along with the striking presentation, you can savor the freshly cooked takoyaki that Kukuru is known for. Perfect for those looking to enjoy an exciting Osaka gourmet experience!
Stretchy Mochi Cheese Takoyaki (Available Only at Konamon Museum)
Source: Official X
The “Stretchy Mochi Cheese Takoyaki,” exclusive to the Konamon Museum, is a creative twist on Japan's traditional foods. Mochi, made from glutinous rice, is a beloved part of Japanese cuisine, known for its sticky texture and versatility—it's often grilled or added to soups. This unique menu item combines mochi, mozzarella cheese, and takoyaki for a delightful fusion.
The combination of mochi and cheese is a match made in heaven, adding an extra gooey texture to the takoyaki batter. Enjoy the stretchy properties of both ingredients while savoring the soft, fluffy takoyaki.
Heart’s Desire 4-Takoyaki Set (Available Only at Shinsaibashi)
Source: Tabelog
This exclusive set at Shinsaibashi lets you enjoy both classic and creative takes on takoyaki in one go. It includes three pieces each of four varieties: the classic “Takoyaki with Giant Octopus Pieces,” the highly praised “Cheese Parmesan Takoyaki” known for its perfect pairing of cheese, the savory “Butter Soy Sauce Takoyaki” which adds a rich, aromatic flavor, and the refreshing “Green Onion Ponzu Takoyaki” for a lighter option.
It’s perfect for someone like me who loves trying different flavors. This set is recommended for those who want to compare different styles of takoyaki or for true takoyaki enthusiasts looking to explore more inventive combinations.
Kukuru (Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi) Store Information and Access
Dotonbori Store
Address: 1-10-5 Hakua Building 1st Floor, Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City
Access:
- 3-minute walk from Namba Station (Subway Midosuji Line)
- 10-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station (Subway Midosuji Line)
- 10-minute walk from Nihonbashi Station (all lines)
- 233 meters from Osaka Namba Station
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
*Last order: 8:30 PM*
Phone: 06-6212-7381
Official Website: https://dotonbori-kukuru.com/shop/
Shinsaibashi Store
Address: 1-6-1 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 161 Building, 1F
Access
-Approximately 5-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station
Business hours
-11:00 AM - 8:30 PM
(Last order for food 8:00 PM)
Telephone number: 06-6556-7669
Official website: https://dotonbori-kukuru.com/shop/
If you are interested in Takoyaki, check the article below! I summarized Takoyaki Restaurants in Osaka I recommend and how I felt each Takoyaki Restaurant.
sena kanda
Two Takoyaki Shops Beloved by Locals Alongside Kukuru
Hanadako
Source: Tabelog
Located just a minute's walk from JR Osaka Station, Hanadako is a popular spot among locals. The takoyaki is prepared right before your eyes at the counter, giving you a chance to watch the cooking process as you enjoy your meal.
The shop's most popular items include the classic Osaka-style takoyaki with sauce and mayonnaise, as well as the "Negi Mayo," where the takoyaki is completely covered with green onions. The combination of green onions and mayonnaise is superb, offering a surprisingly light taste.
Another popular choice is the “Takosen,” where takoyaki is sandwiched between thin crackers, perfect for eating on the go. Enjoy the authentic taste of Osaka-style takoyaki in a lively local atmosphere!
Address : 9-26 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, 1st Floor, Shin Umeda Shokudo-gai
Hours : 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Closed : Open all year round
Phone : 06-6361-7518
Official Website : https://shinume.com/shop/%E3%81%AF%E3%81%AA%E3%81%A0%E3%81%93/
If you are interested in Hanadako, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka
Source: Official website
Wanaka, which began as a confectionery store half a century ago, has become a beloved name among locals and is even featured in the Michelin Guide.
Their takoyaki, made with fine wheat flour and seasoned with just the right amount of dashi and salt, is grilled to perfection over high heat. Toppings like green onions, salt-pickled ginger, and tempura flakes are added to enhance the flavor, creating a crispy exterior and a creamy inside.
Another reason to visit is the variety of sauces, including special house-made sauce and salt prepared in a traditional kettle, all of which pair wonderfully with the takoyaki’s delicious batter.
Address : 11-19 Namba Sennichimae, Chuo-ku, Osaka City
Hours :
- Weekdays: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Closed : Open all year round
Phone : 06-6631-0127
Official Website : http://takoyaki-wanaka.com/#content07
For a True Takoyaki Experience in Osaka, Visit "TAKOPA"
Source: Official website
If you want to fully indulge in Osaka's takoyaki, "TAKOPA" is the place to go. You can enjoy a variety of takoyaki styles here, such as the minimalist “Abeno Takoyaki Yamachan,” which is eaten without any toppings, or “Tamaya,” where the batter is enhanced with lobster stock.
Other standout shops include “Kougaryu,” which takes pride in its carefully selected ingredients, “Aiduya,” an iconic takoyaki shop founded in 1933, and “18,” known for its unique batter made with a blend of dashi and milk and topped with plenty of tempura flakes. You'll also find “Kukuru,” as mentioned earlier, making a total of six famous shops gathered in one location.
Each shop is a well-known name in Osaka, and the facility is located near Universal Studios Japan (USJ), making it an excellent stop after visiting the theme park.
If you are interested in TAKOPA, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
If you are interested in Osaka's Street Foods, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy Osaka's Street Foods as much as possible.
sena kanda
Enjoy Osaka's Culinary Delights with Locals on the "Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai"!
For those eager to experience Osaka's gourmet culture, including takoyaki, this food tour is highly recommended. You’ll get to try takoyaki, kushikatsu, and okonomiyaki—some of Osaka’s most iconic soul foods—while a local guide takes you through the streets and shares insights.
This 3-hour, all-inclusive tour covers food, drinks, and a curated selection of restaurants. However, note that the number of dishes is preset, and participants walk through the area together. Vegetarian options can be arranged in advance.
This tour is praised for offering first-time visitors a deeper understanding of Osaka’s food culture and local life. It's a must for those looking to experience Osaka's charm through the eyes of a local.
Meeting Point : Imamiyaebisu Station, Nankai Koya Line
Tour Area : Shinsekai, Dotonbori, ends at Namba Station
Start Times : 11:30 AM / 4:30 PM / 5:30 PM
Approximate Price : $101.76
If you are interested in Food Tours in Osaka, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy Food Tours as much as possible.
sena kanda
