Momijiya

Osaka vs. Hiroshima: The Great Okonomiyaki Debate? Think of Italy. To someone unfamiliar with the cuisine, “Italy” might just mean “pasta.” But in reality, pasta differs significantly by region—even within the same country. People from Osaka say, “Ours tastes better.” People from Hiroshima say, “We don’t accept the term Hiroshima-style.” Though not everyone may feel this way. Why does this phrase bother some in Hiroshima? Because Hiroshima-style implies that Hiroshima imitated Osaka. It carries the nuance of being a derivative, a second-best version. Let’s clarify one thing. Even within Osaka, okonomiyaki varies by restaurant. The same goes for Hiroshima. This is undeniable. What really changes the flavor isn’t the region, but the restaurant. That’s why what “Momijiya” does is impressive: They boldly call themselves Hiroshima-style. Claiming it on purpose has strategic merit. For example, Hiroshima has a premium pork brand called Kiriri Pork. It's produced in Miyoshi, Hiroshima Prefecture. If it had been called Miyoshi Pork, it might have been more widely recognized. Think of Fujinomiya = Yakisoba. Imabari = Towels. When a product is tied to a location, it sticks in your mind. So if you ever find yourself in Fujinomiya, you’ll probably think: “Ah, this is the place known for yakisoba.” Now, what’s the key difference between Osaka and Hiroshima? In my view, Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki restaurants tend to offer a much more extensive à la carte menu. That’s not the case in most places in Osaka. And in Osaka—and Kansai in general—it’s common for customers to cook their own food on the griddle. Frankly, I find that annoying. I prefer when the dish is served fully prepared. Of course, if you're after the "experience," that might be fine. Which you prefer is entirely up to you. As for me, I sometimes visit Momijiya and don’t even order okonomiyaki. That’s how appealing the rest of their menu is. So in that sense, one visit isn’t enough to understand what Hiroshima okonomiyaki is all about. Going with a group and sharing dishes might be the best approach. And perhaps, checking whether a place calls itself Hiroshima-style or not— That might be an interesting way to explore the local food scene. Review advisor

We had dinner at Momijiya on a Monday. We arrived early and were seated right away at the counter but soon after the room filled up and people started waiting outside. We each had Okonomiyaki and shared sides of Shitake, Hiroshima pickles and Kimchi. The service was impeccable. The staff was very attentive and although the server did not speak English, the chef Gakuto doubled down as an interpreter. Our glasses were never empty for more than a few seconds. Sitting at the bar, the food was expertly prepared in front of our eyes. Everything was very tasty. I am picky and I loved this place. You should eat here.

We came on a Sunday evening (about 5pm) just before it got mega busy and got the last two seats at the bar. The waitress automatically switched out the Japanese menus for English menus and came to take our orders within 5 minutes of our arrival. The drinks came quickly and the food was made all fresh there and then within 15 minutes of our order being taken. There was a great atmosphere around the bar with plenty of local groups. We went for one Soba noodles and one Udon and they both were great but I preferred the Udon. When we were done I got up to pay and they sorted the bill quickly and I could pay on card. Two drinks and two meals came to ¥3600 (which if anyone knows London prices is a bargain) Very good, would recommend.

Place is super nice and the food is excellent 👌 The queue might be long and it’s outside. Make sure to have something to keep you warm on a winter! Okonomiyaki + Yakisoba is always a good pair.

I got the special with a small bottle of sake and left fat and happy. It reminds me of the Billy Goat in Chicago in style and a Waffle House in Japanese cuisine, except way better. If you find yourself in the area, it’s a must.

Ordered fried egg okonomiyaki (3.5 stars - mostly because of undercooked bacon in there), eggplant with ginger sauce (5 stars) and grilled shiitake (4.5 stars). More than enough food for two. Sitting was at the counter right where the food was prepared which was fun

Loved this!!!! 😍 they were so accepting of us not being able to speak Japanese and my partner and I had the best time. Lovely meal and fantastic atmosphere .. highly recommend for a couple or small group .. love aussie family

The restaurant was busy when we visited however we were seated at an annexe nearby. The restaurant specializes in okonomiyaki and we ordered the special and it was very good. Would revisit.