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“Wait, champagne? Isn’t takoyaki always paired with beer?”
You might think that, but hold on for a second.
Karahori Shopping Street is where you’ll find a hidden gem in Osaka’s old-town district, where a small bar is breaking new ground with its innovative take on takoyaki. Here, you’ll witness perfectly cooked, bite-sized takoyaki sizzling on a hot plate, right next to a sparkling champagne glass.
The name of this place? Takoriki.
This Michelin-listed establishment is revolutionizing the way takoyaki is enjoyed, pairing it with champagne and wine – and the combination is simply exquisite.
Takoriki’s takoyaki harmonizes with champagne in ways you’d never expect. From the first bite, you’ll enter a new world of takoyaki.
Let’s dive into Takoriki, a rising star in Osaka’s backstreets that’s making waves with its unique take on takoyaki.
Takoriki is a specialty takoyaki restaurant located near Karahori Shopping Street in Osaka. This popular dining spot has earned a place in the Michelin Guide. At lunchtime, they serve takoyaki, while in the evening, their menu shifts to a full-course meal.
Takoriki’s defining feature is its pursuit of perfect pairings between takoyaki and champagne or wine.
“Wait a minute, what are you talking about? Takoyaki goes with beer, highballs, or lemon sours!”
No, this works. First, try the salt-flavored takoyaki.
Takoriki’s takoyaki has a crisp exterior and a soft, melty interior, making it a delightful bite. The dashi (broth) flavor stands out and is further enhanced by just the right amount of salt. The faint aroma of green onions complements the champagne beautifully.
Though the takoyaki is slightly smaller than those at other places, the octopus is just the right size, adding a pleasant chewiness and making it perfect for pairing with drinks. You’ll enjoy the dashi flavor along with the octopus and salt, which come together in a perfect marriage with champagne. This is the essence of subtractive cooking – where less is more. Takoriki’s salted takoyaki is a masterpiece, where simplicity reigns.
Now, let’s talk about the “Salted Cheese Takoyaki,” which takes the experience to a whole new level.
As soon as the takoyaki is adorned with salt and cheese, it transforms into a Western-style dish. Naturally, this pairs perfectly with champagne. The cheese, while bold, remains delicate and doesn’t overwhelm. The balance between the salt and cheese enhances the takoyaki beautifully.
The balance of flavors between the takoyaki, salt, and cheese is impeccable. Each component complements the others without overpowering them. This harmony makes the dish exceptionally delicious. Of course, the pairing with champagne is top-notch.
If we break it down, the salt and cheese blend with the takoyaki, and the champagne ties everything together. It’s that simple.
The takoyaki is undeniably Japanese, but the salt plays a huge role in making this combination work.
Just adding cheese to takoyaki wouldn’t work; it’s the slight addition of salt that balances the flavors perfectly. This is a one-of-a-kind dish that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
The unsung hero here is the octopus. It’s tender and flavorful, without the toughness or uneven texture you might find in takoyaki elsewhere. Takoriki’s octopus is consistently delicious in every bite.
Salted cheese takoyaki paired with champagne – it’s an experience like no other.
Takoriki’s hours are divided between lunch (12:00 am～4:00 pm) and dinner (6:00 pm～12:00 pm). During lunch, only takoyaki and specialty dishes are served, while dinner offers a full course (non-takoyaki) menu. If you want to enjoy takoyaki, be sure to visit during lunchtime.
| Item Name | Quantity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Takoyaki | 14 pieces | ¥1,100 |
| Salted Cheese Takoyaki | 7 pieces | ¥750 |
| Takoyaki + Salted Cheese Takoyaki | 7 pieces + 7 pieces | ¥1,300 |
Takoyaki Flavor Options:
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Fried Takoyaki (with tartar sauce) | ¥880 |
| Omu - tako (omelette - style takoyaki) | ¥750 |
| Takoyaki Gratin | ¥950 |
| Takoriki Onsen | ¥420 |
| Dashi Chicken Curry | ¥1,000 |
| Karahori Pudding | ¥330 |
Drinks are required; you must order at least one.
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Champagne | ¥1,250 |
| White Wine | ¥900 |
| Red Wine | ¥900 |
| Bottle Wine | ¥3,600~ |
| Bottle Champagne | ¥7,500~ |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Draft Beer | ¥750 |
| Highball | ¥900 |
| Lemon Sour | ¥850 |
| Non - alcoholic Beer | ¥650 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Fuji Mineral Water (360ml) | ¥380 |
| Iced Hojicha | ¥380 |
| Mitsuya Cider | ¥380 |
| Ginger Ale | ¥380 |
| Homemade Lemon Squash | ¥600 |
| San Pellegrino (500ml) | ¥600 |
| Coca - Cola Plus | ¥500 |
Takoriki has only 7 counter seats, making it an intimate and cozy space. Most customers come in pairs or alone, so it’s ideal for solo or duo dining.
Champagne with takoyaki in the middle of the day – it’s truly an extraordinary experience.
I’ve eaten at many takoyaki shops, but Takoriki stands out as a truly unique place. Their takoyaki is extraordinary on its own, but when paired with champagne, it reaches new heights and creates an unforgettable experience.
What makes this place even more popular is the fact that the champagne pairing is widely accepted, even by international visitors. During my visit, I met travelers from Spain and the United States who had come to Osaka and were enjoying the experience.
Takoriki offers a new way to enjoy Osaka’s beloved takoyaki from a fresh perspective.
Indulge in this blissful experience at Takoriki in Osaka’s Karahori area.
Takoyaki and champagne – an unforgettable pairing. Don’t miss the chance to visit.
