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Dotonbori, a famous tourist spot in Osaka, is home to countless delicious restaurants. Walking through the streets, it can be challenging to decide which okonomiyaki place to choose.
When in doubt, “Bonkuraya Dotonbori” is the place to go. It’s loved by both locals and tourists alike for its delicious food. In this article, we will explore the appeal of Bonkuraya based on our visit.
Bonkuraya Dotonbori is a popular okonomiyaki and teppanyaki restaurant located in Osaka’s Dotonbori area. Known for its fluffy and soft-textured okonomiyaki, the restaurant boasts a variety of teppanyaki dishes, attracting a wide range of customers from locals to tourists. Its reasonable prices and cozy atmosphere make it a popular spot to enjoy Osaka’s gourmet cuisine.
Bonkuraya is beloved by the people of Osaka for its okonomiyaki and teppanyaki dishes. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a lively atmosphere and the delicious aroma of freshly cooked food. The menu features classic items like “Buta-Tama” (pork), “Ika-Tama” (squid), and “Ebi-Tama” (shrimp), as well as unique creations like “Bonkura-Yaki” and “Beppin-Yaki”. The fluffy and soft texture of their okonomiyaki, packed with yam, is unforgettable after just one bite.
The hallmark of Bonkuraya is its fluffy okonomiyaki, generously made with yam. From the classic pork, squid, and shrimp okonomiyaki to the unique Bonkura-Yaki and Beppin-Yaki, there is a wide variety to choose from. The “fluffy and soft” texture is so memorable, you’ll be craving it after just one bite. The aroma of the sauce as it cooks is irresistible.
The interior of Bonkuraya is designed to evoke early Showa-era Japan, offering a nostalgic ambiance.
Most of the seating is at tables, and the space is clean and well-maintained, avoiding the greasy feel typical of old teppanyaki restaurants.
When we visited, the energetic staff greeted us with cheerful shouts. Their service was attentive and humorous, blending Osaka’s lively spirit with Japanese hospitality. The atmosphere was always bright, making it a pleasant place to be.
Bonkuraya can accommodate up to 87 people, making it ideal for large parties. They also accept birthday surprise requests, making it perfect for special occasions.
At Bonkuraya, the okonomiyaki is cooked and served to you, so there’s no need to worry about making it yourself. Each table is equipped with a griddle for keeping the food warm.
For tourists unfamiliar with making okonomiyaki, this service allows you to enjoy authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki prepared by professionals, offering the best experience.
A must-try for men, the popular “Kyonyu-Yaki” (literally “Big Breast Okonomiyaki”) is not only visually striking but also delicious with its spicy cod roe mayonnaise.
Ideal for parties and gatherings, this dish is sure to liven up any event. During our visit, many customers seemed to be enjoying this unique menu item.
Despite its eye-catching name and appearance, the combination of creamy cheese and spicy cod roe mayonnaise makes it an addictive dish you’ll want to order again.
Bonkuraya offers more than just okonomiyaki; their teppanyaki menu is also extensive. Dishes featuring domestic black-haired wagyu beef sourced from butcher shops are luxurious treats, with rare cuts available. Other options include seafood teppanyaki and negiyaki, all of which are satisfying. The seafood teppanyaki we ordered was a delightful mix of plump shrimp, octopus, and squid paired with crunchy bean sprouts, making it a perfect match for drinks.
One of the attractive features of Bonkuraya is its reasonable course menu. The “Affordable Teppanyaki Course” includes 8 dishes with a 120-minute all-you-can-drink option for only 3,850 yen. This course allows you to enjoy popular items like Bonkura-Yaki, mixed yakisoba, and negiyaki all at once, making it very satisfying. When I ordered this course with friends, every dish was delicious and plentiful, making it an excellent value. It’s a recommended option for budget-conscious travelers.
During my visit, I tried the “Bonkura-Yaki,” “Buta-Tama,” “Otokomae-Yaki,” and “Kyonyu-Yaki.” Each okonomiyaki was fluffy and soft, with the perfect blend of sauce and mayonnaise, making them incredibly tasty.
As shown in the photo, the okonomiyaki is served already cooked, so there’s no need to make it yourself, which is convenient. The staff’s attentive service and the lively atmosphere made for a pleasant dining experience.
Bonkuraya Dotonbori is one of Osaka’s most iconic okonomiyaki and teppanyaki restaurants. Visiting the restaurant reveals why it is loved by locals and tourists alike. From the fluffy and soft okonomiyaki to the hearty teppanyaki dishes and affordable courses, Bonkuraya offers a comprehensive Osaka gourmet experience.
Enjoying delicious okonomiyaki and teppanyaki in a lively atmosphere is an experience that will stay with you long after your trip.
When you visit Dotonbori in Osaka, be sure to stop by Bonkuraya. You’re sure to create tasty memories that will last a lifetime. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori while savoring fluffy okonomiyaki.
