Iwaki

It was gastronomical adventure with Chef Endo. His passion, creativity and years of honing skills is demonstrated in every dish. Our meal featured the summer/ autumn produce - he explained that he changes his menu monthly, spending his time experimenting new recipes. The presentation of his dishes were elaborate - historical plates & bowls, leaves and flowers. We had our meal with 5 sake pairings and left the place very very full (12 courses) . Chef Endo was warm and a great multi-tasker as a one-man-show (his assistant was on leave). He spoke good English too. Booking on the restaurant website was really easy too. Highly highly recommended to come when you are in Osaka. Thank you Chef Endo for the wonderful evening!

A mix of delicious Japanese dishes ranging from Sushi to Wagyu beef, charcoal grilled fish, crab-flavored rice, and more, blended in exquisite, artistic and colorful presentation. Chef Ryo speaks basic English and I appreciate how he patiently tried to answer in English all of my questions about the ingredients, his career and cooking method. Left the Kappo with a happy heart and stomach. Highly recommend.

Authentic Kaiseki experience, where owner-chef Ryoichi Endo whips up seasonal specialties crafted from fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Awarded one Michelin star for 11 consecutive years, Iwaki offers delicate flavors that showcase and enhance the main ingredients, creating a masterpiece that is both pleasing to the eyes and taste. Watching the chef cook was a delight as he and his assistant ran the entire operation. I watched as he prepared the dishes, from the way he was able to grab steaming hot pots off the stove with his bare hands, to the way he seasoned and plated them. There is a lot of attention to details, as beautiful fall colors of maple leaves and nuts donned our plates. The flavors of the dishes are best explained as light, minimally flavored to bring out the natural flavor of the many different fish that were served. This is a good experience for those who enjoy eating raw fish. Cons: I wish there was more variety in the dishes served. It was a lot of fish, and I was hoping to see other types of seafood (like shrimp or crab) or meat to pace the meal. But it was fish, after fish after fish. To be fair, there was a nuts dish with chestnuts, edamame, peanuts, etc that I thought was very delicious and creative. Pros: reservations can be made online, be sure to book in advance. The owner-chef is a nice and sweet person, he apologized for not being able to communicate with us much as he thought his English was not very good, but we thought he spoke well. When we were leaving, he bowed goodbye as the elevator door was closing on the third floor, and when it opened up again on the first floor, we were surprised to see him there, to bid us farewell. The way he ran down to surprise his guests put a smile on all of our faces.

Celebrated Mother's Day at Iwaki recently and was very impressed. For diners wanting to try more unique Japanese food, Iwaki is a must-visit in Osaka. The chef's service is immaculate as he patiently explains each dish even using Google to help translate words to English. The food is superbly executed - a great level of technique clearly goes into each component. We were made to feel so at home at Iwaki and I'd like to specially thank the chef and waitress for making sure my mother enjoyed her meal. Highly recommended.

Japanese restaurant in Kitasinchi area of Osaka. Counter seating and traditional Japanese dishes carefully prepared and elegantly presented. Their specialty is the rice of the day, with seasonal fish and cooked in a traditional clay pot.

Phenomenal experience, the chef takes you through a unique journey of dishes and flavors with kindness and attention. The service is impeccable. (Note that there is a member only bar name the same 2 blocks away this is on the 2nd floor)

Chef, you are wonderful!! We enjoyed the food and the presentation a lot!!! We appreciate how you handle all people’s orders on your own whilst all the food is perfect!! It’s eye opening experience to witness all the Japanese culinary skills!! We are so impressed how you send us off at the elevator then you ran down to ground floor to give us proper goodbye!!!

The culinary journey was nothing short of phenomenal. The chef's inventive twist on traditional Japanese fishes resulted in a feast that was not only delicious but truly incredible. Each dish was a masterpiece, a harmonious blend of flavors that showcased not only culinary expertise but also a commitment to aesthetics, served in stunning plates that enhanced the overall dining experience. What elevated the experience further was the chef's personal touch, taking the time to explain each dish with genuine enthusiasm. The attentive service, with a lovely woman, was marked by kindness, patience, and an ever-present smile. They both made us feel welcome and confortable. The exceptional service, combined with the delightful ambiance and unparalleled cuisine, made this dining experience a truly memorable one. If you seek a culinary adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, this gem in Osaka is an absolute must-visit.