Champagne Lovers’ Guide to Osaka: food, bars and things to do
Osaka is one of Japan’s great food cities, making it an especially fun destination for Champagne lovers. While Kyoto is associated with refinement and tradition, Osaka is known for a more casual, energetic approach to eating and drinking. Champagne can be found within the city’s sophisticated dining and wine scene, but it is equally interesting to think beyond formal pairings and enjoy it with Osaka’s famous street foods and savoury specialities.
Osaka is famous for the idea of kuidaore – eating until you drop. Local specialities include takoyaki, octopus-filled batter balls; okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake cooked with cabbage and various toppings; and kushikatsu, skewered ingredients that are breaded and deep-fried. Champagne is particularly good with Osaka’s fried and savoury foods: its acidity and bubbles cut through richer textures while working well with seafood, salt and umami.
The best way to experience Osaka is to spend plenty of time walking through its different neighbourhoods. Dotonbori is the city’s colourful entertainment and food district, famous for its illuminated signs and canal, while nearby Namba is packed with shopping, food and nightlife. Shinsekai has a more retro atmosphere and is closely associated with kushikatsu. For a completely different side of the city, explore Osaka Castle, walk around the surrounding park or head to Umeda for modern architecture and panoramic city views.
Food markets are another part of Osaka’s appeal. Kuromon Market has long been associated with fresh seafood, produce and ingredients used by the city’s cooks, making the surrounding area an interesting place to explore Japanese food culture.
Osaka works particularly well for Champagne lovers who don’t believe Champagne needs to be reserved for formal dining. A glass alongside crispy kushikatsu, seafood or even okonomiyaki can be just as interesting as a traditional fine-dining pairing.
