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Have you ever thought of “drinking” takoyaki?
Yes, I was surprised too. But in this world, there exists takoyaki that you can practically drink.
The texture is like a melting cream. The outside is fluffy, and the inside overflows with savory dashi broth. From the very first bite, my entire concept of takoyaki was completely transformed.
And it’s no wonder why. This shop is recognized by the Michelin Guide, a seal of approval from Osaka locals who swear by its taste.
Today, I’m introducing you to this magical takoyaki shop I discovered in Sumiyoshi. Prepare to have your perception of takoyaki forever changed.
Naniwaya is a takoyaki specialty shop founded in 1989, located in Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka City. Expect lines, especially on weekends. This popular shop has been featured in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years.
Naniwaya’s takoyaki has a fluffy exterior and an ultra-creamy interior.
What’s especially noteworthy is the creamy interior! It’s so soft that it’s difficult to lift with a toothpick. The texture is unbelievably creamy, almost like eating pure cream. Yet, you can still taste the rich umami of the dashi broth inside. One bite, and your mouth is filled with sheer happiness.
A unique aspect of Naniwaya’s takoyaki is the minced octopus inside. Instead of large chunks, finely chopped octopus is used. This makes it easy to eat for children and those with weaker jaws, a thoughtful touch.
Naniwaya’s takoyaki also comes with pickled ginger on the side, which is sweet and salty, providing a nice accent when eaten between bites of takoyaki.
The aroma of the sauce, with its slight tang, is irresistible. I wonder if the sauce is original. It perfectly complements the creamy dashi-filled takoyaki.
Naniwaya’s takoyaki is a delightful harmony of creamy dashi, the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce, the rich mayo, and the savory batter. It truly redefines what takoyaki can be.
It’s no exaggeration to say this is takoyaki you can “drink.” Definitely worth the trip to Sumiyoshi.
Naniwaya’s takoyaki comes with four flavor options (sauces). The takoyaki itself remains the same.
| Quantity | Price |
|---|---|
| 8 pieces | ¥300 |
| 12 pieces | ¥400 |
| 16 pieces | ¥500 |
| 20 pieces | ¥600 |
| 24 pieces | ¥700 |
This time, I ordered “both,” with both sauce and mayo. The store manager recommends mayonnaise, but both were incredibly delicious. If you’re a fan of sauce, I’d recommend going for both as well.
Naniwaya has a small eat-in space with four two-person tables, allowing you to enjoy your takoyaki inside.
Being a popular shop, expect long lines, especially on weekends. If the take-out option seems faster, you can opt to take your takoyaki to the nearby Nagaike Park to enjoy it.
Naniwaya was featured in the “Michelin Guide Kyoto/Osaka Bib Gourmand” for three consecutive years in 2016, 2017, and 2018.
Additionally, Japan’s go-to restaurant review site, Tabelog, ranked Naniwaya third among 6,517 takoyaki shops across Japan.
Despite its location in Sumiyoshi, which isn’t the heart of Osaka, these accolades reflect the incredible support for its delicious takoyaki.
Even today, many people line up for this treat. The takoyaki is prepared swiftly, and the line moves quickly. As soon as a batch is sold out, a new one is made with consistently high quality, no matter how many are prepared.
Takoyaki you can drink—this is no exaggeration. You must visit Naniwaya in Sumiyoshi to experience the supremely creamy takoyaki for yourself.
