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Mastering Osaka’s Taste! How to Enjoy Kukuru’s Takoyaki Smartly
When it comes to Osaka, takoyaki is a must-try! But long lines at popular shops can be daunting… No one wants to spend most of their trip waiting in line.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to insider tips for enjoying the famous takoyaki at “Kukuru,” one of Osaka’s top takoyaki shops, without the wait. There’s a hidden spot that not many know about.
We’ll also uncover why Kukuru is so popular while showing you how to comfortably enjoy Osaka’s gourmet delights.
Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru
Kukuru is a takoyaki specialty shop based in Dotonbori, Osaka. The main store in Dotonbori often has long lines both day and night, making it one of Osaka’s most famous takoyaki spots.
But this time, instead of waiting in line at the main store, we’ll explore the hidden gem, the “Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store,” to uncover the taste and secret to Kukuru’s popularity.
Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store
The Takoya Dotonbori Kukuru Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store operates in the basement of the Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store in Shinsaibashi, Osaka. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Dotonbori main store.
- Business hours
- 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
- Regular holiday
- Open year - round
- Telephone number
- +081-6-6243-8373
- Official site
- https://dotonbori - kukuru.com/
- Parking
- Daimaru Contract Parking (NPC Nishi - Shinsaibashi Parking No.1 & No.2)
- How to visit
- Directly connected to Shinsaibashi Station South Exit via underground passage
- Address
- B2 Floor, Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store, 1 - 7-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo - ku, Osaka 542 - 0085, Japan
Takoyaki Like Stew!?
Kukuru’s takoyaki is known for its fluffy exterior and gooey interior. When you take a bite, a rich, savory dashi flavor fills your mouth. The creamy texture is almost like eating a stew—mild and flavorful, proving the quality of the dashi. It’s truly a blissful experience in every bite.
The sauce is relatively sweet, a flavor kids would love.
While Kukuru is famous for its large pieces of octopus, many other popular takoyaki shops now also use large octopus chunks, so there’s not much difference. However, Kukuru’s plump and chewy octopus offers a delightful texture, showcasing their attention to detail.
Inside the takoyaki, you’ll also find green onions, tempura bits, and pickled ginger. Compared to other shops, the texture of the tempura and the aroma of the ginger are more subtle, acting as hidden flavors.
Why Is Kukuru’s Takoyaki So Popular?
Kukuru’s takoyaki is beloved because of its creamy texture and flavor, making it enjoyable for everyone from kids to adults. Having visited many takoyaki specialty shops in Osaka, I can confidently say that Kukuru’s creaminess is unmatched in the city. It truly felt like I was indulging in a rich stew.
Why Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store Is a Hidden Gem
So, why visit the Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store instead of the main store? Here’s why this spot should be part of your Kukuru strategy.
1. Shorter Wait Times
The Dotonbori main store is located right in the heart of Dotonbori. As a popular shop with a prime location, it requires quite a bit of patience, as you’ll often find yourself waiting in a long line.
On the other hand, the Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store is just a 10-minute walk from the main store. Since it’s located inside a department store (and not easily visible from the street), you won’t have to wait as long to enjoy your takoyaki.
It’s located in the B2 Food Hall of Daimaru Department Store, where other restaurants are also situated. While there may be a few locals and regulars in line, you can usually get your takoyaki within a few minutes.
2. Comfortable Seating in an Air-Conditioned Space
Since it’s located in the basement of a department store, you’ll enjoy the comfort of air conditioning. No matter the season, whether it’s hot or cold, you can eat your takoyaki in comfort.
3. Plenty of Seating for Families and Solo Diners
Because it’s in a food hall, there’s plenty of seating available. Families can comfortably find seats.
Rather than seating inside the Kukuru store itself, you can use the food hall’s seating area, which offers more space than other shops, making it easier to find a spot.
Kukuru also has counter seats, making it a perfect place for solo diners as well.
For those who don’t feel comfortable sitting alone at a large table, the counter seating offers a great way to focus on enjoying Kukuru’s takoyaki.
4. Enjoy the Live Takoyaki Cooking Show
This is a must-see for parents with kids!
By sitting at the counter seats, you can watch the takoyaki and akashiyaki being prepared right in front of you.
There are no rules saying only solo diners can sit at the counter. If you have the chance, enjoy the high-speed takoyaki cooking show performed by the staff. Watching them spin and flip the takoyaki is practically an art form.
There Are 3 Kukuru Stores Around Dotonbori
By the way, just a short walk from the Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store, there’s also a “Shinsaibashi Store” on the main Shinsaibashi-Suji shopping street.
However, this store also has long lines, so in terms of wait time, the Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store still reigns supreme.
Conquer Kukuru’s Famous Takoyaki—A Must-Eat in Osaka!
Kukuru’s takoyaki is one of Osaka’s most iconic gourmet delights. Its unique texture—crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside—along with its large octopus chunks and rich dashi flavor, make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. As a leading shop in Osaka’s takoyaki scene, Kukuru has earned its reputation.
The Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store offers the best spot to enjoy Kukuru’s takoyaki in comfort. Here are the key benefits:
- Shorter wait times: Fewer lines compared to the Dotonbori main store or the Shinsaibashi store
- Comfortable environment: Enjoy your meal in an air-conditioned department store
- Variety of seating options: Spacious seating for families and solo-friendly counter seats
- Watch the cooking process: Get a front-row seat to the takoyaki-making show
Whether you’re a tourist looking to save time or a local wanting a more comfortable experience, the Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store is highly recommended. It’s truly a hidden gem, as many people don’t know there’s a Kukuru located in the basement of the department store.
Kukuru’s takoyaki represents the essence of Osaka’s food culture. If you’re visiting Osaka or even if you’re a local who hasn’t tried it yet, don’t miss out on the comfortable takoyaki experience at Kukuru Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store.
