Have you wanted to try Osaka’s famous specialty called Takoyaki, but you do not know where to go? The answer to your dilemma is a small shop right next to Nishikujo station called Osaka Yaki Santa.

Takoyaki

You have probably heard of Takoyaki as one of Osaka’s most famous dishes. Takoyaki are very hot, ball-like treats that are filled with octopus and other things, depending on your taste. This snack became popular in the Kansai region in the 1930s and eventually spread to to other regions of Japan. To this day, it’s still an incredibly popular dish among Japanese and foreigners too.

Osaka Yaki Santa (大阪焼き三太)

One day I felt like eating Takoyaki, so I went to Osaka Yaki Santa on my way to the station. While waiting for my Takoyaki, I was able to watch the owner make Takoyaki from up close.

After pouring the dough onto the iron and adding all the ingredients, he started shaping the Takoyaki into beautifully round balls by quickly flipping them around with two sticks. Looking at his exquisite technique, I felt like I should practice making Takoyaki more, because for someone from Osaka, I am horrible at making them.

The owner also started telling me some personal anecdotes.
For example, he lived in Nigeria for one year when he was young. On top of that, he almost bought a cottage at the foot of Mount Fuji many years ago but made the right decision to not do it, as his friend who did so ended up bankrupt.
His stories were so fascinating, the time flew by and I didn’t even realize that 15 minutes had already passed and that the Takoyaki were finished.

Small Delicacies

The Takoyaki tasted so good. Fluffy and soft, they were practically melting inside my mouth.
Furthermore, a portion of 4 Takoyaki costs only 180 Yen which is pretty incredible, considering their amazing taste. I hope I’ll be able to make Takoyaki of the same quality one day.
The best thing about Osaka Yaki Santa, however, is not only the food, but the owner’s wonderful friendly smile.
Why don’t you go to Osaka Yaki Santa to try Osaka’s most famous snack and see the owner’s wonderful smile for yourself?