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Kushikatsu is one of Osaka’s most famous culinary delights. Among the various kushikatsu specialty shops in Shinsekai, Daruma stands out as a beloved icon. Established in 1929, this venerable restaurant boasts nearly a century of history, consistently drawing long lines of eager diners.
Daruma operates four distinct branches in Shinsekai, each offering unique menus and seating arrangements. This guide will highlight the differences between these branches and provide tips for minimizing wait times.
Located in the heart of Shinsekai on Park Main Street.
Situated right next to Tsutenkaku Tower.
The original Kushikatsu Daruma branch.
Located in Jan-Jan Yokocho.
Each of these four branches offers not only a common menu but also exclusive dishes that you can only enjoy at specific locations. If you’re unsure which branch to visit, consider choosing based on the unique menu items that catch your interest.
At Dobutsuen-mae Branch, you can enjoy dessert-style kushikatsu such as Gouda cheese, sweet potato, and chocolate banana. The kushikatsu featuring chicken harami, yam, and Kobe beef are also must-tries unique to this branch.
The exclusive menu at Tsutenkaku Branch includes chicken soup noodles, bamboo shoots, and chicken skin with ponzu. Additionally, they offer popular souvenirs such as doteyaki retort, double-dip forbidden kushikatsu sauce curry, and doteyaki beef tendon miso curry.
The highlight of the Shinsekai Main Branch is the marinated tuna kushikatsu, a dish made with fresh tuna available only at this location.
The avocado and prosciutto wrapped kushikatsu at Jan-Jan Branch perfectly blends the flavors of avocado and prosciutto. The eel kushikatsu is another popular dish, and the mini Daruma set, exclusive to this branch, is a hearty meal featuring various skewers.
Another significant difference between these branches, aside from the exclusive menus, is the seating capacity. Whether you’re dining alone, as a couple, in a group, or with family, each branch offers different seating arrangements to suit your needs.
| Branch Name | Business Hours | Counter Seats | Table Seats | Payment | Queue Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dobutsuen - mae Branch | 11:00 am - 10:30 pm | 13 | 38 | Cash, Credit Cards, Electronic Money, QR Code Payments | High |
| Tsutenkaku Branch | 11:00 am - 10:30 pm | 36 | 16 | Cash, Credit Cards, Electronic Money, QR Code Payments | High |
| Shinsekai Main Branch | 11:00 am - 10:30 pm | 12 | 0 | Cash only | Medium |
| Jan - Jan Branch | 11:00 am - 10:30 pm | 13 | 34 | Cash, Credit Cards, Electronic Money, QR Code Payments | Low |
Daruma is a popular spot in Shinsekai, the sacred ground of kushikatsu. While all branches usually have long lines, the Jan-Jan Branch tends to have fewer crowds, making it an ideal choice. This branch offers a balanced seating arrangement, accommodating both solo diners and families. If the lines at other branches are too long, head to the Jan-Jan Branch for a quicker dining experience.
Read more about Jan-Jan Branch
Kushikatsu, a soul food representative of Osaka, finds its home in Shinsekai, with Daruma being a prominent establishment boasting nearly 100 years of history. This guide introduced the four unique branches of Daruma.
Each branch has its own charm, with exclusive menus, souvenirs, seating capacities, and payment options. Whether you visit alone, with family, or in a group, Daruma welcomes everyone with open arms.
Long lines are common, but aiming for the relatively less crowded Jan-Jan Branch is a good strategy. Whether you’re traveling to Osaka, on a business trip, or reuniting with friends, make sure to savor the kushikatsu at Daruma in Shinsekai. You’re sure to experience the taste and spirit of Osaka.
