【Escape Dotonbori】Chef’s Selected Gourmet Journey in Local Osaka

Osaka , Japan

【Escape Dotonbori】Chef’s Selected Gourmet Journey in Local Osaka

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About this experience

"Why settle for street snacks when you can dine with a chef?"
Forget the queues and tourist traps of Dotonbori. Join a former professional chef for an exclusive gourmet marathon in the hidden district of Tanimachi.

WHY THIS TOUR?

THE CHEF’S STANDARD I’m not just a guide. I’m an ex-chef who hates tourist traps. I only take you to places that pass my strict "Excellence Test."

MASSIVE VALUE➔ 13 JAPANESE TAPAS + 4 DRINKS This is a full-course meal, not a snack tour.

・13 Chef-selected Tapas (Small plates)
・4 Local Drinks included
・High quality and variety. Come hungry!

100% AUTHENTIC OSAKA Explore Tanimachi ➔ The historic soul of Osaka. 3 local Izakayas and 1 secret Bar where real foodies hide...

WHAT WE DO

１，THE ESCAPE: Meet at Tanimachi, a quiet, historic district away from the tourist noise.

２，THE JOURNEY: Hop through 4 hidden spots (3 Izakayas & 1 Secret Bar) curated by the chef.

３，THE FEAST: Enjoy 13 Japanese Tapas and 4 drinks while learning the secrets of local food culture.

Available options

Osaka 13 Food & 2 drinks Tour Old Town around Osaka Castle

What's included

Professional Chef Experience & Storytelling

Enjoy 13 Japanese Tapas (Omakase-style), expertly selected by the chef at each stop.

4 drinks included (1 at each venue). Options: Sake, Shochu, Umeshu, Chu-hi, or soft drinks.

Detailed itinerary

Tachinomiya (Standing Bar) Experience:
We'll start at a popular tachinomiya, an Osaka-style standing bar. Enjoy 5 small dishes and 1 drink, and experience the casual and modern food, local atmosphere.

Yakitori Restaurant:
We'll head to a yakitori restaurant open until late. Savor exquisite grilled chicken made with fresh chicken. This includes 5 food items and 1 drink. Here, you can enjoy a drinking game with two dice, and you can also challenge yourself with chicken sashimi.

Old House Izakaya:
A komin-ka izakaya in a 105-year-old house, offers a unique dining experience. Enjoy 3 included delicious food items. Choose and pay for your drinks there. Expect a cozy, historical atmosphere and creative cuisine.

Hidden Bar:
Expect a quiet and cozy atmosphere at this hidden bar, with a strong focus on the interior design creating a calm, sophisticated space with low lighting. Drinks here are pay-on-site, so you can choose what you like. It's a peaceful place to relax and enjoy your evening.

What's not included

Private transportation

Additional food and drinks: Please pay for any additional food and beverages on-site

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

29 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The legal alcoholic drinking age is 20 years old and above. Minor travelers below 20 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let your host know when booking.

Extra orders are available at your own expense. We recommend carrying around 5,000 JPY in cash for any additional drinks or personal snacks.

Note on Smoking: In accordance with Japanese regulations, some local venues on this tour still allow indoor smoking. We appreciate your understanding of this local culture.

Floor seating in old Japanese houses may not be suitable for those with knee or back problems.

Meeting point

The meeting point is at the ground level of Exit 3, Tanimachi 6-chome Station, on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line. Our meeting point is in front of Tachinomi Megane-do, which is next to Exit 3.

About Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, bustling city known for its rich culinary scene, historic sites, and modern entertainment. As Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, it offers a dynamic mix of traditional culture and contemporary urban life.

Top Attractions

Osaka Castle

A iconic symbol of Osaka, this castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been beautifully restored. It offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history and features a museum and scenic park.

Historical 2-3 hours 600 JPY

Dotonbori

A lively and colorful entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Dotonbori is a must-visit for foodies and those looking to experience Osaka's energetic atmosphere.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Universal Studios Japan

A popular theme park featuring attractions based on famous movies and characters, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park. It's a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Entertainment Full day 8,400-10,600 JPY (varies by season and tickets)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whales, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and educational programs.

Nature 2-3 hours 2,600 JPY

Shinsekai

A retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and a variety of local eateries. Shinsekai is known for its unique blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into Osaka's past.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled batter balls, cooked to perfection and topped with savory sauces and bonito flakes. A must-try street food in Osaka.

Snack Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, cooked on a griddle. Often referred to as 'Japanese pizza.'

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. A specialty of the Shinsekai district.

Dinner Contains seafood and meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Ramen

Noodle soup dish with various broths, toppings, and noodle types. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Cycling tours Kayaking and water sports Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional workshops (e.g., calligraphy, ikebana)

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Cherry blossoms in March and April add to the appeal.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from city center
Itami Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station

By bus

Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of eight lines that connect major attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Umeda Namba Shin-Osaka Tennoji

Day trips

Kyoto

50 km • Full day

A historic city known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Nara

40 km • Half day to full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. Nara offers a mix of history, culture, and nature.

Kobe

30 km • Full day

A port city known for its historic sites, scenic views, and delicious beef. Kobe offers a mix of culture, history, and culinary delights.

Festivals

Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15 Osaka Castle Illumination • December (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as ICOCA or Suica, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, vending machines, and convenience stores
Try local specialties, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, at street food stalls and local restaurants
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines
Explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Den Den Town, to experience the diverse culture and atmosphere of Osaka
Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Osaka Metro, JR trains, and buses, to easily navigate and explore the city