Houzenji Sanpei

The 38 Best Restaurants in Osaka, Japan | Eater

"In keeping with Osaka’s punk rock attitude, okonomiyaki translates to “whatever you’d like, grilled.” The savory pancake is built from a batter of cabbage, flour, and egg, a deceptively simple balance that Houzenji Sanpei nails. Tucked in a Dotonbori alley, the little restaurant delivers big flavor with combos like beef tendon, konjac, and green onion; or shimeji mushrooms, scallops, and cheese. The chefs layer the ingredients on an iron griddle until the okonomiyaki is airy and balanced, before topping it with sauces and an egg — that is, if you’d like. Know before you go: Make an online reservation, as the restaurant only has a handful of seats with built-in flat griddles. If you don’t have a booking, try to arrive before 5 p.m. on a weekday to get in quickly." - La Carmina