Kushikatsu Perfect Guide: The Deep-Fried Skewers Loved in Osaka
When you visit Osaka, I highly recommend trying kushikatsu. It's a soul food that represents Osaka and one of my personal favorites. I still can't forget the excitement I felt when I first tasted kushikatsu.
The crispy batter with the juicy meat or vegetables inside is irresistibly delicious. Enjoying kushikatsu among locals in a restaurant with a downtown Osaka atmosphere is truly special.
However, for first-timers, there might be some rules that could be confusing. For example, there's a manner about dipping the sauce only once. But if you know these manners, you'll be able to enjoy kushikatsu even more.
I decided to write this article because I want foreign visitors to enjoy kushikatsu too.
I'll cover the basics of kushikatsu and etiquette, and even introduce tours where you can enjoy kushikatsu with a local guide. Eating your way through the city with locals will surely become a memorable part of your trip.
After reading this article, I hope you'll give kushikatsu a try in Osaka!
Kushikatsu Culture in Osaka
Kushikatsu is an essential part of Osaka's food culture. Let me explain in detail what this dish, which developed in Osaka, is all about.
What is Kushikatsu?
Kushikatsu is a representative B-grade gourmet dish from Osaka where ingredients like meat or vegetables are skewered, battered, and deep-fried. Various ingredients are used, including beef, pork, chicken, onion, eggplant, and green pepper.
There are two types of batter: one that's tempura-style using flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and another that's unique to Osaka using "crepe batter". Skewering the ingredients makes them cook easily and gives them a crispy texture.
Kushikatsu is said to have originated in Shinsekai around 1930, and it was initially popular as an affordable, nutritious meal for workers. Now, it's loved by many as a soul food representing Osaka.
Why Kushikatsu is Loved in Osaka
Why is kushikatsu so loved in Osaka? The reason is deeply connected to Osaka's long-standing casual food culture.
The charm of kushikatsu is that it can be enjoyed casually. It's a rough-and-ready dish that symbolizes Osaka's downtown culture, reflecting the friendly character of Osaka people.
The reasonable price is also part of its appeal. Its affordability attracts many people.
Also, the fact that there are many kushikatsu shops in tourist spots like Shinsekai and Dotonbori is one of the reasons why kushikatsu is loved in Osaka. It's clear that it supports Osaka's food culture as a popular gourmet for tourists as well.
How to Eat Kushikatsu
Kushikatsu has its own unique etiquette. Here, I'll explain the basic way to enjoy kushikatsu deliciously and some points to be careful about.
Basic Eating Method
When eating kushikatsu, first check the portion size. You can usually order from one skewer, so feel free to order "one" or "two" at a time.
When eating kushikatsu, it's a no-no to remove it from the skewer. The correct way is to hold the skewer and eat it from the top. And remember, double-dipping in the sauce is strictly prohibited. This is the rule of kushikatsu.
It's standard to eat the shredded cabbage that's often served as a palate cleanser between kushikatsu.
The recommended order for eating kushikatsu is to start with lighter vegetables or seafood and gradually move on to meat. The Osaka way is to enjoy conversation while eating slowly. It's important to enjoy the meal without worrying about time.
And kushikatsu pairs excellently with alcohol. It's great to enjoy it with draft beer, highballs, or sake.
Manners and Points to Note
When eating kushikatsu, always follow the "no double-dipping" rule. This is a basic manner for hygiene considerations.
Also, please discard the used skewers in the designated container. It's not okay to place them directly on the table, so be careful.
Recommended Areas and Shops for Kushikatsu in Osaka
There are several areas in Osaka where you can eat delicious kushikatsu. Here, I'll introduce especially recommended areas and shops.
Shinsekai
Shinsekai is known as the birthplace of kushikatsu. Many long-established shops line the streets, bustling both day and night. It's also a tourist spot with the Tsutenkaku Tower.
However, it's also known for not being the safest area, so I recommend visiting Shinsekai during the day if you're alone or in a group of women.
Recommended Kushikatsu Shop in Shinsekai: Yaekatsu
Source: Tabelog by Yomawarineko
A must-visit in Shinsekai is the long-established kushikatsu shop "Yaekatsu". The open kitchen style allows you to enjoy watching the cooking process while eating.
Yaekatsu's kushikatsu is characterized by its crispy texture. It's popular with both locals and tourists, and every time I go, there's always a line. But it's well worth the wait.
The budget is about 2,000 yen per person. It's a shop where you can enjoy delicious kushikatsu at a reasonable price.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-4-13 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Closed: Thursdays
Phone: 06-6643-6332
Hours: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/osaka/A2701/A270206/27000443/
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a famous tourist spot in Osaka, known for its Glico sign. Many shops here stay open late into the night.
Dotonbori is quite touristy and very crowded, even by Osaka standards. Be careful not to get separated from your travel companions or lose your wallet!
Recommended Kushikatsu Shop in Dotonbori: Daruma
Source: Tabelog by Bamugi
In Dotonbori, I recommend "Daruma", the most famous kushikatsu chain in Osaka. Besides the main shop in Shinsekai, they have branches in several major locations like Dotonbori and Namba.
The appeal of Daruma's kushikatsu is its wide variety. The batter is crispy, and the sauce is deliciously sweet and savory. It's also nice that it has an atmosphere where even first-time tourists can easily enter and enjoy.
The budget is about 2,000 yen per person. It's a shop where you can casually enjoy delicious kushikatsu.
Website: https://www.kushikatu-daruma.com/
Kitashinchi
Kitashinchi is a high-end dining district in the Umeda area of Osaka. You can taste a higher grade of kushikatsu using quality ingredients.
Recommended Kushikatsu Shop in Kitashinchi: Nishikawa
Source: Tabelog by Nishikawa
In Kitashinchi, I recommend "Nishikawa". They offer high-quality kushikatsu that brings out the flavors of the ingredients.
The budget is around 10,000 yen per person, making it one of the top-tier prices for kushikatsu. I've actually been there, and the taste was top-level kushikatsu, so I found the price justified.
Nishikawa requires reservations and is a bit high-end. I recommend trying the more casual kushikatsu in Shinsekai or Dotonbori first, and then visiting such high-end shops later.
Two Tours to Fully Enjoy Kushikatsu
To enjoy kushikatsu even more, I recommend tours that visit kushikatsu spots popular with locals. Here, I'll introduce two tours recommended for foreign tourists.
"Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" by Magical Trip
Our Magical Trip's "Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" is a tour where you can fully enjoy Osaka's representative gourmet spots, Dotonbori and Shinsekai.
During the 3-hour tour, you can enjoy Osaka's famous dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. You'll also visit a nearby shrine, so it's perfect for those who want to enjoy both Osaka sightseeing and gourmet food at the same time.
Click here for more details: Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
"Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour" by Arigato Travel
Source: Arigato Travel
Arigato Travel's "Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour" is a 3-hour tour where you can enjoy street food in Shinsekai at night.
Shinsekai at night is known for not being very safe. But with this tour, you'll be accompanied by a local guide, so you can feel secure. If you're planning to visit Tsutenkaku or Shinsekai at night, I highly recommend considering this tour.
Click here for more details: Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour
Frequently Asked Questions About Kushikatsu
Lastly, I'll answer some frequently asked questions from foreign tourists about kushikatsu.
What's the Difference Between Kushikatsu and Tempura?
While both kushikatsu and tempura are fried dishes, there are several differences.
Kushikatsu uses breadcrumbs in the batter and the ingredients are skewered before frying. On the other hand, tempura uses a batter made of flour, water, and eggs.
Also, kushikatsu originated in Osaka, while tempura is a dish that was born in Tokyo during the Edo period.
Kushikatsu is characterized by its thicker batter and voluminous ingredients. In contrast, tempura is characterized by its thin batter and simple presentation.
I recommend trying kushikatsu when you come to Osaka, and tempura when you visit Tokyo.
What Are the Popular Ingredients for Kushikatsu?
The standard ingredients for kushikatsu are meats like beef, pork, and chicken. Among these, beef is particularly popular and one of my favorites.
Vegetable kushikatsu like onion, green pepper, eggplant, and lotus root are also persistently popular. I recommend trying various ingredients.
Are There All-You-Can-Eat Kushikatsu Restaurants?
The popular chain restaurant "Kushiya Monogatari" offers all-you-can-eat kushikatsu plans. There are time limits like 90 minutes depending on the branch, but you can enjoy as much kushikatsu as you want.
I'm happy that Kushiya Monogatari is available not just in Osaka but throughout Japan, so you can easily enjoy kushikatsu anywhere in the country.
Website: https://www.kushi-ya.com/
I've introduced Osaka's famous dish, kushikatsu, in detail.
There are many recommended kushikatsu spots in Osaka, such as Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Kitashinchi. From cheap and delicious casual kushikatsu to high-end kushikatsu using premium ingredients, try to find the one that suits your taste.
If you're unsure about going on your own, I recommend joining a tour like the ones I introduced. With a local guide, you'll be able to understand Osaka's food culture more deeply.
I hope you'll use this article as a reference to fully enjoy Osaka's kushikatsu culture!