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In Osaka’s vibrant Temma district lies a fascinating izakaya.
The moment you step inside, the enthusiastic call of “Yoisho!” echoes throughout, joined by the voices of customers. At the counter, sake is poured for just 1 yen per serving, and tables are adorned with plates of fresh chutoro sashimi.
The name of this gem is “Chutoro to Tonsoku.” Located just steps from JR Temma Station, it’s a beloved spot among locals and a must-visit for travelers in Osaka.
This izakaya is full of surprises: a serving of sake for 1 yen, fresh chutoro sashimi for 599 yen, and their signature braised pork feet also for 599 yen. The festive atmosphere inside makes it feel like a perpetual celebration.
In this article, we’ll delve into the charm of “Chutoro to Tonsoku,” a place adored by Temma’s regulars. From the unbeatable prices to the delectable dishes and the uniquely lively ambiance, we’ll cover it all.
“Chutoro to Tonsoku” is an izakaya located in Temma, Kita-ku, Osaka. Known for its fresh seafood and pork feet-centered menu, it’s a favorite in Temma’s izakaya district. The casual and homey atmosphere characteristic of Temma makes it a welcoming place for both locals and visitors. Its unbelievably cheap menu is a hallmark of the establishment.
The star attraction at Chutoro to Tonsoku is their 1-yen sake. One serving for just 1 yen—easily the cheapest sake in Japan.
“You can’t expect a 1-yen sake to taste good.”
I get it; I thought the same. But this 1-yen sake has a mellow taste, offering the genuine flavor of sake, and it’s delicious. It’s astonishingly good for just 1 yen.
While you might be tempted to drink endlessly, remember that the establishment makes no profit at this price, so be considerate and avoid over-ordering. The sake can be enjoyed at room temperature, chilled, or hot.
True to its name, Chutoro to Tonsoku offers two signature dishes, one of which is the “Braised Pork Feet” (599 yen).
These pork feet are extraordinary! Entirely gelatinous and rich in collagen, they are free of any unpleasant smell—truly a beauty elixir you can eat. It’s a decent portion, but since it’s mostly collagen, it’s manageable for one person. For light snacking, it’s perfect for sharing among 2-3 people.
When you order the braised pork feet, the staff pours a sweet-savory sauce over them six times while everyone in the room shouts “Yoisho!” together.
This participatory event electrifies the atmosphere, turning everyone in the izakaya into instant friends. It’s a unifying, joyous experience.
The power of pork feet to create such harmony is truly remarkable.
The other signature dish is the “Bluefin Tuna Chutoro Sashimi” (599 yen).
The chutoro is incredibly delicious! Its sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture are unparalleled. Freshness is a given, and it’s hard to believe such a plate comes at this price.
Pairing perfectly with the 1-yen sake, it’s a dish you’ll finish in no time. It’s portioned for one person, but you’ll likely crave more.
Ordering this is an absolute must. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
The food menu at Chutoro to Tonsoku is extensive and incredibly budget-friendly. “Oden Assortment,” “Pork Steak Skewers,” and “Deep-Fried Chicken Wings” are available for just 99 yen, while items like “Pickled Shallots” and “Stewed Shiitake Mushrooms” are a mere 9 yen.
The menu spans a wide range, from sashimi, sushi, and seafood grills to pickles and fried dishes, covering all izakaya staples.
The drink menu is equally diverse, with draft beer, highballs, and sake starting at 199 yen—making everything incredibly affordable.
A mug of draft beer for 199 yen—what a delight!
Among the menu’s highlights are exotic dishes. The lineup is enough to make anyone hesitant… but if you’re adventurous, give them a try.
The menu is hidden to avoid shocking those faint of heart. Open it if you dare.| Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Fried Whole Frog | ¥499 |
| Grasshopper | ¥399 |
| Crayfish | ¥499 |
| Cockroach | ¥399 |
| Maggots | ¥499 |
The appearance of these dishes is intense. Ordering on a whim might be a mistake—proceed only if you’re fully prepared.
The interior of Chutoro to Tonsoku is primarily composed of long tables. The ceiling is adorned with colorful lanterns, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere. The cleanliness is decent, making it a comfortable place to spend time.
The customer base is diverse, ranging from university students to elderly patrons, all enjoying their time.
If you’re visiting with a group or family and prefer a bit more privacy, while there are no private rooms, there are standalone table seats available.
Although Chutoro to Tonsoku operates primarily as a standing bar, as seen in the photos, you can opt to sit down. For an additional 294 yen per person, you can use the table seats.
For standing, no seating fee is charged. It’s a great option if you just want a quick drink. Below is the standing area.
Chutoro to Tonsoku is right in front of JR Temma Station. Literally a 3-second walk! Once you exit the station on the north side, you’ll find it immediately, so there’s no need to worry about getting lost.
The exterior has a bold, unique character. Head down the stairs to the basement, and you’ll find the entrance. While the appearance might seem intimidating to some, as soon as you step inside, the vibrant atmosphere described above unfolds.
If there’s one phrase to sum up this izakaya’s appeal, it would be “a series of surprises.”
The 1-yen sake offers a mellow taste and fragrance, showcasing the essence of genuine sake. The 599-yen chutoro sashimi melts in your mouth with its sweet and rich flavor. And the signature braised pork feet, with their sweet-savory sauce, create a blissful dining experience.
The lively atmosphere driven by the “Yoisho!” chants, the camaraderie of patrons, and the excellent hospitality all contribute to the essence of Chutoro to Tonsoku.
With its unbeatable location just 3 seconds from JR Temma Station, the high quality of its dishes, and its incredible prices, Chutoro to Tonsoku is a true gem rooted in Osaka’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re stopping by for a drink after work, exploring Osaka’s nightlife as a tourist, or enjoying a fun evening with friends, make sure to visit.
