04-03. Enjoy like a local! The Complete “Kuidaore” Street Food Guide to Dotonbori, Osaka

Open your eyes. Before you lies a flood of light so dazzling it seems unreal. Giant neon signs shine brightly in the night sky, bathing the river in cyberpunk colors. Above your head, giant crabs move their legs, pufferfish float gently, and dragons coil around. And tickling your nostrils is the fragrant aroma of sizzling sauce, the gentle scent of broth, and the tempting aroma of fried foods… Welcome to Dotonbori, the heart of Osaka, the stomach of Japan, and the most exciting food wonderland in the world! This city has a long-standing philosophy: **”Kuidaore.”** Literally translated, it means “to eat until you drop (go bankrupt).” It is a phrase that embodies the bottomless love and passion that Osaka people have for food, continuing to eat delicious things until their wallets are empty or their stomachs are so full they can’t move. However, for first-time travelers diving into this sea of neon lights, the energy may be overwhelming. “Where should I eat? What should I eat? How should I eat?” Faced with countless options, you may feel lost. No need to worry! This guide is your adventure map for Kuidaore. We won’t just list tourist spots. We’ll share all the secrets to thinking, acting, and eating like a local Osaka native. By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll no longer be a lost traveler but a confident food hunter ready to explore this culinary jungle. Are you ready? Let go of conventional wisdom, open your curiosity wide, and embark on a culinary journey you’ll never forget!

Chapter 1: Tips for Eating Your Way Through Osaka – Preparing to Enjoy Dotonbori to the Fullest

The best adventures require the best preparation. First, let’s learn the basic knowledge and mindset you need to become a master of eating your way through Osaka.

What is “eating your way through Osaka”? Osaka people’s love of food is engraved in their DNA

Why is Osaka so passionate about food? The roots of this passion date back to the Edo period. At that time, Osaka was known as the “kitchen of the nation,” serving as a commercial hub where rice and high-quality ingredients from all over Japan converged. Merchants blessed with an abundance of ingredients developed refined palates and a strong obsession with delicious food. Their motto was **”Cheap, delicious, and filling.”** This spirit has been passed down through the centuries to modern-day Osaka residents. Many of the shops lining Dotonbori offer not high-end cuisine, but affordable, everyday “soul food” that is never compromised on quality. “Eat until you drop” is the ultimate positive expression of pride and love for Osaka’s food culture.

Dotonbori Area Map: What’s Where?

Dotonbori is not just one main street. It is made up of several unique areas.

• Along the Dotonbori River: The most iconic area, with giant neon signs such as the Glico sign. The riverside promenade, Tonbori River Walk, is the perfect place to stroll while enjoying takoyaki.
• Dotonbori Shopping Street: An arcade street running parallel to the south side of the river. It is packed with takoyaki, ramen, souvenir shops, and more.
• Soh-emon-cho: An adult entertainment district on the north side of the river, home to high-end clubs and bars.
• Hozenji Yokocho: A charming alley with cobblestone streets and lanterns, just a step away from the bustling shopping district. It is lined with long-established Japanese restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a quiet time.
• Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street: A specialty shopping street selling cooking utensils and tableware used by professional chefs, as well as unique food samples. It is a fun place to visit just to look around.

Before your adventure: Clothing, belongings, and mindset

• Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. You will be walking more than you think. Casual, comfortable clothing is best.
• Belongings:
  • Cash: Credit cards are often not accepted at small food stalls and long-established shops. Be sure to bring plenty of 1,000 yen bills and small change.
  • Wet wipes/handkerchief: It is common to get sauce or mayonnaise on your hands.
  • Small eco-bag: Convenient for carrying souvenirs or leftovers (if possible).
  • Stomach medicine?: If you plan to eat a lot, it’s better to be safe than sorry (laughs).
• Mindset:
  • Order small portions: To enjoy a variety of dishes, it is best to share one dish among several people.
  • Don’t be afraid of lines: They’re a sign of a good restaurant. However, many places have a fast turnover, so you might not have to wait as long as it looks.
  • Don’t lose your curiosity: The best discoveries might be waiting at small, off-the-beaten-path shops not listed in guidebooks.

Osaka dialect phrases to remember

These magical phrases will help you get closer to the locals. Be sure to give them a try!

• Meccha umai! (Meccha umai!): Means “It’s really delicious!” It’s the highest form of praise.
• Ookini! (Ookini!): Means “Thank you!” Saying this after paying or leaving a store will make the staff very happy.
• Nambo? (Nambo?): Means “How much?” Use this phrase when asking about the price.
• Kore, kudasai (Kore, kudasai): “Please give me this.” This is standard Japanese, but you can buy anything by pointing and saying this phrase.

Chapter 2: Dotonbori Soul Food BIG 3 – You can’t leave without trying these!

Now it’s time to eat! From the many gourmet foods available in Dotonbori, we will introduce the “BIG 3” that you absolutely cannot miss. You can’t say you’ve eaten your fill until you’ve tried these.

1. Takoyaki: The soul of Osaka, hot magical balls