Shinsekai is home to iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, which stands as a prominent landmark representing Osaka's vibrant atmosphere and exudes a friendly, energetic vibe much like the city itself. While Shinsekai may not have enjoyed the same level of fame as the bustling districts of Namba and Umeda in the past, its popularity has surged since the completion of the "TOWER SLIDER" in 2022. It now attracts both domestic and international tourists eager to experience the thrilling ride, rivaling the crowds in Namba and Umeda.

The area surrounding Tsutenkaku is a hub for Osaka's soulful delicacies, particularly skewers and deep-fried delights. With one popular skewer joint after another, it feels like stepping into a foodie theme park! Beyond skewers, visitors can also indulge in BBQ and seafood, or opt for a romantic evening with a view at nearby HARUKAS.

For sightseeing enthusiasts, Shinsekai offers more than just Tsutenkaku; nearby attractions like Tennoji Zoo, Abeno HARUKAS, and Nipponbashi ensure a full day of exploration and an exciting itinerary. For an in-depth guide to the fascinating world of Tsutenkaku, be sure to check out our other articles on the area! Now, local Osaka resident and seasoned explorer, Nemi Lin, with over 5 years of experience living in Osaka, will take you on a culinary journey through the must-try delights of Tsutenkaku!

In the lively area around Tsutenkaku, there's no shortage of energy-boosting options, especially when it comes to indulging in delicious barbecue! Besides savoring different cuts of beef, you can also try Japan's latest craze: meat sushi. These bite-sized morsels provide the perfect combination of protein and carbs to up your energy levels if you're feeling weary from traveling.

Some restaurants even offer premium cuts of Wagyu beef, perfect for treating yourself. Don't miss out on the opportunity to recharge with some mouthwatering barbecue while exploring this vibrant district!

Yakiniku Manno takes beef very seriously, going as far as visiting farms across Japan to select the perfect beef. Having found what they were looking for, "Gokumen Manno Wagyu" meets strict standards, resulting in beef with a natural meaty aroma and a sweet flavor, making it an unparalleled culinary delight.

For first-time visitors, the most popular choice is the "Standard" set menu. This set includes the restaurant's signature large cuts of meat, along with beef tongue, two types of Gokumen Manno Wagyu, three types of offal, salads, and more, providing a richly varied dining experience that never gets dull. It's no wonder it's the flagship set menu!

At KISSYAN, indulge in Japan's finest beef—premium Wagyu, renowned for its exquisite marbling and unmatched flavor. KISSYAN utilizes expert cattle handling techniques to offer a variety of rare Wagyu cuts, ensuring guests can savor the unique flavors of each.

In addition to grill-it-yourself yakiniku, KISSYAN also offers shabu-shabu and sukiyaki options for those who prefer a lighter meal. Some menu options even include unlimited drinks, making it perfect for those who enjoy indulging in meat and drinks alike!

If you visit during lunchtime (from 11 AM to 4 PM), don't miss out on their fantastic "Premium Wagyu Hamburg Steak" set, which comes with appetizers, salad, rice, and soup, all for just 1,680 yen. It's an unbeatable deal for experiencing Wagyu beef, so be sure to take advantage of the lunchtime special!

When in Osaka, you absolutely cannot miss out on one of its quintessential delights—kushiage, or deep-fried skewers. Especially in the Shinsekai area near Tsutenkaku, popular kushiage shops line the streets, offering an array of options to choose from!

Whether it's seafood, vegetables, or even something a bit more special like cheese or mochi skewered on a small bamboo stick, the variety is so extensive that you'll never get bored. It's the perfect way to enjoy a casual meal with family and friends while experiencing Osaka's distinct comfort food culture firsthand.

Kushikatsu JANJAN is a well-known kushiage restaurant in Osaka. In addition to the original location in Shinsekai, there are two other branches in Osaka, allowing visitors to choose the most convenient location based on their itinerary.

However, the original in Shinsekai has the largest seating capacity, making it more suitable for larger groups. Kushikatsu JANJAN offers a wide variety of skewers, including chicken thigh, beef tongue, bacon, and salmon, totaling over 100 types. They even have unique options like chocolate banana and strawberry condensed milk, perfect for dessert. There's definitely a skewer to suit your taste, making it a delightful way to explore Osaka's culinary delights!

Yokozuna, home to Japan's top kushiage, is conveniently located near the Midosuji Line Dobutsuen-mae subway station and the JR Loop Line Shin-Imamiya station, making it easily accessible. You can even enjoy views of Tsutenkaku Tower from inside the restaurant, allowing you to bask in Osaka's charm while you eat.

At Yokozuna, in addition to classic skewers like beef tongue, salmon, and chicken thigh, they offer unique options such as ginkgo nuts, takoyaki (octopus balls), and bamboo shoots. They even incorporate desserts like layered sponge cake into their kushiage lineup, perfect for those who love trying new things!

The restaurant lives up to its name, "Yokozuna," offering oversized portions fit for sumo wrestlers, with each dish serving 8-10 people. So whether you're a big eater or part of a group looking for a challenge, Yokozuna is sure to be a winner!

Many travelers come to Japan for honeymoons or special celebrations, and what better way to commemorate the occasion than by dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a place with a breathtaking night view? While the area around Tsutenkaku is known for its casual atmosphere, thanks to its proximity to HARUKAS, there are also several high-end restaurants offering delicious food, impeccable service, and a romantic ambiance.

If you're looking to add a touch of elegance and ceremony to your experience, a more upscale restaurant could be the perfect choice.

Located on the 57th floor of the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel, ZK is perched 270 meters above sea level, conveniently near JR Tennoji Station. In addition to its live cooking counter, one of the restaurant's highlights is its stunning panoramic views.

Multiple seating areas offer different perspectives: seats on the north side overlook the bustling northern district and Osaka Castle; those on the south side offer views of lush Tennōji Park; while seats on the west side provide vistas of Tsutenkaku Tower and scenic Osaka Bay. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of the Akashi Strait and Awaji Island in the distance. Day or night, the restaurant offers romantic views, making it perfect for special occasions.

When in Japan, it's a must to savor the classic Japanese delicacy—sushi. The Tsutenkaku area is conveniently close to "Osaka's kitchen"—the Kuromon Ichiba Market—where you'll find plenty of restaurants offering fresh seafood.

From globally recognized conveyor belt sushi restaurants to sushi shops nestled within department stores, there's a wide array of options to choose from.

Kura Sushi, having expanded to the U.S. and throughout Asia, has garnered widespread acclaim and is a must-visit for many tourists when in Japan. The Kura Sushi Shinsekai Tsutenkaku branch, conveniently located near Dobutsuen-mae Station and Shin-Imamiya Station, is within walking distance of Tsutenkaku Tower, making it perfect for experiencing fresh seafood while exploring Shinsekai.

At Kura Sushi Shinsekai Tsutenkaku, you can enjoy a variety of delicious sushi, including nigiri sushi, gunkan sushi, and sushi rolls, starting at just 132 yen per plate—a budget-friendly option. They also regularly offer limited-time sushi featuring fresh fish from various regions, allowing you to experience even more excellent flavors!

At Daiko Sushi's main location, the emphasis is on deliciousness and affordability, offering high-quality sushi at budget-friendly prices. The incredibly popular tuna sushi, for example, is only 110 yen including tax—a shockingly low price! In addition to the usual sushi varieties, they also serve less common dishes like horse sashimi.

Daiko Sushi's main branch has a counter-style layout, with the chef prepares sushi right in front of you once you've placed your order. Service is prompt, but since they don't have English menus, it's helpful to write down your order in advance if you're concerned about communication issues to ensure a smoother ordering process.

Indulging in desserts always brings a sense of relaxation. In the nostalgic atmosphere around Tsutenkaku, there are numerous retro cafes where you can experience sweet treats with a vintage Showa vibe. Some popular on Instagram, often attracting photo-seeking tourists!

As you stroll around HARUKAS and Tennoji, you'll find many trendy cafes and beverage shops. So, if you're feeling tired while sightseeing, why not treat yourself to some dessert to unwind and sweeten up your trip?

Aside from deep-fried treats, there's another Osaka must-try: mixed fruit juice. Originating from Sennariya Coffee in Shinsekai, you can often find it at stations and on shopping streets. Established in 1948, Sennariya Coffee has a rich history as a retro café.

It started as a fruit stand, with ripe fruits juiced and sold to delighted customers. By 1960, it transformed into a café renowned for its iced coffee and mixed fruit juice. Today, to cater to modern tastes, their mixed fruit juice includes plenty of milk, enhancing the fruit's sweetness and flavor. It's smooth and unforgettable with just one sip. Don't miss out when you visit Tsutenkaku!

SKY GARDEN 300 is located in HARUKAS 300 and requires a separate ticket to dine. In addition to offering set meals that require reservations, they also serve coffee, light snacks, and desserts to satisfy any appetite. Two of their exclusive desserts are highly recommended.

One is the "Pineapple Ice Cream" (550 yen, tax included). This refreshing pineapple-flavored soft-serve ice cream is sprinkled with sugar crystals, adding a delightful crunch to the smooth texture. The other is the "Abeno Pudding" (650 yen, tax included). Sitting atop a fluffy white marshmallow cloud is a cute chocolate Abeno bear. Beneath, you'll find silky smooth pudding that's heavenly with every bite.

Newly opened SUPERMEN made its debut in late March 2024. It's a fresh brand established by the operating company behind Osaka's top-rated ramen spot, Human Beings Everybody Noodles. At SUPERMEN, you'll experience the unique texture of flat noodles, unlike typical Japanese ramen.

They also offer a selection of craft beers!

The Tsutenkaku area is packed with Osaka's iconic soul foods like kushikatsu, creating a vibrant, lively atmosphere. If you want to experience Osaka's culinary delights here, be sure to book in advance to avoid hunger-intensifying waiting in line.

And for a more hassle-free experience, consider joining a food tour that takes care of all the reservations and communication in Japanese. Ready to feast? Then make your reservation now!

* The information in this article is based on data available as of March 2024. For the latest updates, please refer to the respective official websites.