Osaka’s burger king reveals his favourite spots in the city for a laid-back breakfast, a quick lunch, a catch-up with friends and more
Osaka being Japan’s unofficial culinary capital, the sushi options available across the city are of course legion. From the world’s first conveyor-belt sushi restaurant – Genroku Sushi in Fuse – to Osaka’s own oshizushi, or pressed sushi, coined by Yoshino Sushi, you have the must-visit-once pedigree spots, alongside a slew of innovative eateries putting their own mark on the revered tradition of raw fish over rice.
One of these relative newcomers is Kitaro Sushi, where the speciality is sharikoma – a snackable type of sushi characterised by its small balls of gently vinegared rice. Topped with delectably springy cuts of fish, these dainty morsels are as pretty to look at as they are appetising. And you won’t need to look far to find them: Kitaro Sushi is a signature part of Time Out Market Osaka, located right by Osaka Station in the heart of Umeda.
But where does the superb seafood showcased at the Market come from, and where does Kitaro’s lead sushi artisan, Hideaki Iwamoto, go for a break from crafting his tiny beauties? Read on for Chef Iwamoto’s Osaka food recs – from unmissable breakfast cafés to grill-it-yourself restaurants, plus the condiments he can’t live without.
Where do you go for breakfast on your day off?
Marufuku in Sennichimae. It’s an Osaka classic. I get the ‘mix toast’ with strawberry jam and butter, and a cup of piping hot coffee.
(Editor’s note: Marufuku also has a location at Grand Green Osaka, in the same building as Time Out Market.)
How about a quick lunch?
Gotta be Genroku Sushi, the birthplace of conveyor-belt sushi. It’s worth the trip out to Fuse.
And what restaurant would you pick for a special meal, like an anniversary or birthday?
Keisho, it’s this incredible yakiniku place near Midoribashi metro station.
Where do you pick up fresh ingredients for your restaurant?
At the Osaka Central Fish Market. Marutoku is my go-to supplier.
And kitchen equipment – where do you get yours?
There’s no beating Ebisuya on Doguyasuji for knives – or anything else kitchen-related, for that matter.
What’s an ingredient or condiment you can’t live without at home?
Pre-packaged sundubu-jjigae, tortillas – and Kewpie mayo. That last one’s non-negotiable.
What’s a place you always take friends to when they visit you in Osaka?
94 Dining Makoto, it’s this kushikatsu spot out near Hanaten Station. I also like Ikki, a down-to-earth izakaya at Fukaebashi.
Lastly, what’s your favourite outlet in Time Out Market?
I have two: Gihan Siumei and Kushiage001 produced by Kushiage010. Try anything they offer – you won’t be disappointed.
Check out Kitaro Sushi at Time Out Market Osaka