It takes about 15 minutes from Umeda and only 7 minutes from Namba to reach the Tennoji and Abeno area by train, with no transfers needed. The district is home to multiple cultural and entertainment spots, including Tennoji Zoo, Tennoji Park, Tennoji MIO, and Abeno HARUKAS. On top of that, it's a haven for Japanese cuisine and authentic Osaka-style food.

The area around Tennoji Station is packed with shopping centers and shopping streets where you can find plenty of local restaurants. Within walking distance is the Shinsekai district, known for its retro Osaka charm and an array of mouthwatering food options. Plus, the area is conveniently close to Tsuruhashi, famous for its yakiniku, Korean restaurants, and Korea Town. Thanks to its convenient transportation and rich tourist attractions, the Tennoji and Abeno area has become Osaka's third major shopping district, after Umeda and Shinsaibashi. It draws visitors from all over the world year-round and is loved by people of all ages in Japan.

Curious to learn more about the must-see spots around Tennoji and Abeno? Be sure to check out the articles below!

Okonomiyaki, also known as "Japanese pancakes," comes in two main styles: the Kansai-style, commonly referred to as Osaka-yaki, and the Hiroshima-style, called Hiroshima-yaki. This popular dish originated during World War II when food was scarce, making it a beloved comfort food for the masses. The name "okonomi" means "as you like," which reflects the customizable nature of the dish. You can mix ingredients like meat, seafood, or vegetables with flour and water, then grill the batter on a hot iron griddle. Some shops add bonito flakes on top, and it's usually finished with signature sauces, mayonnaise, and a sprinkling of seaweed powder.

You can use chicken, pork, beef, seafood, and even unique toppings like kimchi or cheese. If you can imagine it, you can probably add it to okonomiyaki! While you can find okonomiyaki across Japan, many people believe the best place to enjoy the dish is in Osaka. Even Japanese visitors make a point to seek out delicious okonomiyaki when traveling to Osaka.

With over 70 years of tradition, Tsuruhashi Fugetsu has long preserved the authentic flavors of Osaka's iconic okonomiyaki. One standout feature at Tsuruhashi Fugetsu is its thin batter, generously filled with cabbage and topped with bonito flakes. Restaurant chefs grill your okonomiyaki right in front of you, showcasing their unique cooking method. The result is a savory dish with a sweet crunch from the cabbage and a perfectly crispy exterior that enhances the overall texture.

Located just a 3-minute walk from Tennoji Station, the Tsuruhashi Fugetsu Abenobashi location is a convenient stop for a delicious meal!

It's no exaggeration to say that Chibo has become synonymous with okonomiyaki. Founded in 1973, this restaurant has made significant contributions to the dish's popularity. Chibo is dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience through its three key elements: a warm welcome from energetic and smiling staff (the "before taste"), delicious okonomiyaki (the "middle taste"), and attentive service throughout your meal (the "after taste").

The restaurant features spacious seating and a vibrant atmosphere that transforms the traditional okonomiyaki experience. Their unique batter, with its closely guarded recipe, is grilled on a thick iron griddle, and the skilled chefs pour their love into every dish. Finished with their specially crafted sauces and mayonnaise, Chibo's okonomiyaki is a must-try for those seeking flavor that's both unique and authentic.

Kushikatsu is another must-try delicacy in Osaka. This dish consists of bite-sized pieces of meat, seafood, and vegetables skewered on bamboo sticks, coated in a batter made from flour, eggs, and water, and then breaded and deep-fried. Being easy to eat if you're not accustomed to using chopsticks, may be part of the reason why it's so popular among international tourists.

While the exact origins of kushikatsu are a bit unclear, one theory suggests that it was created in the late Taisho to early Showa era in Osaka's Shinsekai district. The idea was to provide local workers with a quick, affordable way to fill their stomachs. That's why you'll find a dazzling array of kushikatsu specialty shops, particularly around the Tsutenkaku Tower in the Shinsekai area.

A fun tip: when enjoying kushikatsu in Japan, remember that double dipping in the sauce is a big no-no!

Kushinobo has been serving its signature flavors for 70 years and is a pioneer of kushikatsu in Osaka. They offer an impressive variety of over 30 seasonal ingredients, including fresh vegetables, seafood, shellfish, and various types of meat. This wide selection makes it an excellent place to fully enjoy authentic Osaka-style kushikatsu. Located just a 1-minute walk from the station, the Tennoji MIO shop also features a kids' menu, making it a perfect stop for families traveling with children.

Located in the bustling Janjan Yokocho shopping area in Shinsekai, Yaegatsu is a popular kushikatsu specialty shop that has been serving customers since 1947, often drawing long lines. The restaurant features only counter seating, where chefs fry up delicious skewers right before your eyes.

While kushikatsu can sometimes have a reputation for being greasy, the skewers at Yaegatsu are known for their crispy exterior and refreshing texture, winning over many food lovers — even those who aren't particularly fond of fried foods. Although it's best known for its kushikatsu, the rich doteyaki (miso-braised offal) is also a big hit among patrons.

Since the restaurant only has counter seating and meals are typically quick, it's worth waiting in line to savor their delightful kushikatsu!

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, you can't overlook yakiniku and teppanyaki. Internationally acclaimed Japanese black wagyu beef, along with other domestic varieties, is well-known to many visitors from all over the world come to Japan just to savor this delicious beef.!

Yakiniku refers to grilled meat dishes, which many of you are likely familiar with, especially the Japanese-style barbecue cooked over a grill. After World War II, yakiniku became popular in Japan, influenced by Korean barbecue, leading to the creation of today's Japanese-style yakiniku. On the other hand, teppanyaki involves grilling a variety of ingredients, such as meat, seafood, and vegetables, on an iron griddle. Dishes like okonomiyaki, which are also cooked on a griddle, fall under the teppanyaki category.

Yakiniku Manno, with multiple locations across Osaka, originally started as a wholesale meat supplier, giving them extensive knowledge about beef. However, the owner became frustrated that most customers were only familiar with cuts like brisket and sirloin. He wanted to educate them on the different textures and flavors of other cuts and highlight the hard work that goes into raising quality cattle, encouraging people to appreciate every piece of meat. After much contemplation, he decided to open his own yakiniku restaurant, and today, that vision has come to life, allowing diners to savor truly delicious beef at Yakiniku Manno.

Located on the 12th floor of Abeno HARUKAS, this upscale yakiniku restaurant specializes in premium black wagyu beef. Guests can enjoy the beef grilled, as well as prepared in lighter styles like shabu-shabu and sukiyaki. In addition to classic cuts, there are also rare options to savor. And don't forget to ask the sommelier to recommend the perfect bottle of red wine to pair with your meal! Plus, with direct access to Tennoji Station, you can continue your shopping and exploring after satisfying your appetite!

Sushi is a true representation of Japanese culinary culture and has gained immense popularity abroad, with many travelers visiting Japan likely include tasting authentic sushi on their itinerary. The most common type, nigiri sushi, consists of bite-sized rice balls known as shari, topped with seafood referred to as neta. A dab of wasabi and a dip in soy sauce enhance the experience.

Sushi's origins trace back to a preservation method called narezushi, where fish, salt, and rice were fermented together. The nigiri sushi we know today emerged in the early 19th century in what was then known as Edo (now Tokyo). At that time, refrigeration wasn't advanced, so fish was either cooked or marinated in soy sauce. Initially, nigiri sushi was offered as an affordable street food, but over time, more upscale sushi establishments have begun to emerge.

Experience a perfect fusion of Kyoto-style cuisine and sushi at Kyogetsu! This restaurant emphasizes offering a variety of exquisite dishes in smaller portions, allowing guests to enjoy an array of delicious options. You can easily savor expertly crafted sushi made by skilled chefs, with seafood sourced fresh each morning and meticulously selected.

In addition to sushi, the restaurant features a carefully curated selection of renowned sake from across Japan. They also offer limited-edition sake varieties that change monthly or weekly. With seating options that include counter seats, standard tables, and private rooms, it's an ideal spot for group gatherings. Come enjoy a refreshing drink paired with fresh sushi and immerse yourself in authentic Japanese cuisine!

New Tsurumatsu 4 Tennoji MIO is the fourth branch of the New Tsurumatsu chain, following locations in Nihonbashi, Uehonmachi, and Shinsaibashi PARCO, and opened its doors in March 2022. Just a minute's walk from Tennoji Station, this izakaya (Japanese pub) specializes in seafood dishes and tempura, boasting an impressive menu that features over 30 different types of tempura, from classic favorites to innovative creations!

One of the restaurant's standout offerings is the boxed platter selected by the fish market, which showcases a stunning assortment of sashimi made from fresh fish sourced directly from the market. This wooden box overflows with glistening sashimi that looks almost too good to eat! Whether you're dining solo, with family, or in a large group, this affordable izakaya is perfect for everyone.

If you're looking to try some high-quality sushi, be sure not to miss Sushi Wataru! The restaurant places great emphasis on the rice and vinegar used in their sushi, serving up hand-formed pieces made with specially prepared sushi rice. In addition to sushi, the dishes are crafted by chefs with experience from renowned Kyoto kaiseki restaurants. Coupled with a selection of fine sake and a charming nostalgic decor, a visit to Sushi Wataru guarantees a special dining experience!

When you finally get the chance to enjoy a leisurely vacation in Japan, why not treat yourself to some renowned kaiseki or other fine dining options in addition to the usual restaurants and izakayas? LIVE JAPAN is excited to highlight some of the top fine dining experiences in the Tennoji and Abeno areas. Let's take a look!

The chef at Yugen hails from the esteemed one-star restaurant Kitcho in Osaka, and he actively incorporates seasonal flavors using Kansai ingredients. The menu features traditional Osaka vegetables such as burdock from Yao, lotus root from Kadoma, and bamboo shoots from Kozumi. The restaurant boasts a tea room-style setting with six counter seats that offer views of azaleas and autumn leaves, as well as a private room for four. Located in the historically rich area of Uehommachi, Yugen combines seasonal kaiseki cuisine with the chef's extensive experience from renowned establishments, delivering an exceptional feast for both the palate and the eyes.

The Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel is located in the popular landmark Abeno HARUKAS, offering stunning views from its restaurant situated on the 57th floor, 270 meters above ground. Its proximity to Osaka's iconic Tsutenkaku allows guests to enjoy breathtaking cityscapes alongside the beautiful silhouette of the tower. The restaurant serves traditional kaiseki, teppanyaki, and French cuisine, showcasing a variety of expertly crafted dishes. With exquisite food paired with spectacular views, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.

When it comes to traveling in Osaka, Shinsekai is definitely a must-visit spot on everyone's itinerary. Just a 15-minute walk from Tennoji Station or a quick one-stop train ride away, Shinsekai is home to Osaka's famous Tsutenkaku Tower. The renowned Janjan Yokocho, known as the birthplace of kushikatsu, can also be found here. This vibrant area is packed with all the Osaka delicacies you could imagine, making it an essential stop to savor the culinary delights of Tennoji and Abeno!

In the Tennoji and Abeno areas, you can not only take the JR train but also access multiple subway lines. Convenient transportation options and plentiful shopping centers make this area a hotspot of activity, and there are countless restaurants to choose from. With so much choice, it can be tough to decide where to eat! That's why the list above will definitely come in handy! If you haven't explored Tennoji and Abeno yet, make sure to check them out when you visit Osaka, in addition to Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba!

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