Okonomiyaki

Symbol of Flour-Based Food Culture

Osaka's "flour-based food culture" refers to cooking culture using wheat flour in dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and udon. Okonomiyaki is the most pervasive as home cooking, eaten not just on special occasions but regularly.

Osaka Style vs Hiroshima Style

Osaka style is "mixing" style where ingredients are mixed into the batter. Often contrasted with Hiroshima style, Osaka prefers one with plenty of cabbage and various ingredients including pork, shrimp, and squid.

Diversity of Specialty Shops

Osaka's okonomiyaki specialty shops are truly diverse, from self-grilling styles to full service where staff grill for you. Popular shops are scattered in each area like Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Umeda.

Sauce and Mayonnaise

Okonomiyaki sauce (a variant of Worcestershire sauce) and mayonnaise are essential for Osaka okonomiyaki, finished with green seaweed and bonito flakes. Each household and shop having their own sauce blend is also characteristic.