Sushi might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of essential Osaka eats, but the city’s energetic, casual and value-conscious dining culture actually lends itself well to showcasing a style of cuisine that developed from street food during the Edo period (1603–1867).
Tokisushi has been turning fresh seafood from Izumisano and other nearby fishing ports into delectable nigiri and rolls since back when the now-bustling streets just east of Namba Station were lined mainly with warehouses. Located just around the corner from the Namba Grand Kagetsu comedy theatre, the shop attracts the longest queues after shows, but it’s best to come prepared to wait at all times.
Once you’re shown to your counter seat – or low table in the tatami-mat area – you may end up spending even more time over the extensive menu. Single pieces of sushi start from a somewhat unbelievable ¥82, while the Tokitoki lunch set, composed of eight plump pieces and miso soup, is a steal at ¥1,320. Another great lunchtime option is the barachirashi (also ¥1,320), a bowl of rice topped with chunks of egg, cucumber, nori, roe and, of course, some of the trimmings of the day’s catch.