Highly Recommend This Walk-In Izakaya in Osaka's Shinsaibashi!

Eight years later, I’m back in Osaka! While the city itself might be ordinary, the food here is absolutely stunning! By the time I checked into the hotel that evening, it was already late, so I decided to look for a nearby Michelin-rated restaurant, "Nihonshu Kaiseki Utsutsuyo." Unfortunately, I was turned away for not having a reservation. Feeling disappointed as I left, I noticed a cozy izakaya next door glowing warmly with yellow light. Through the wooden lattice windows, I could see silhouettes of people moving inside—it was like a scene straight out of a Japanese drama featuring a charming corner eatery! The moment I pushed open the door, the aroma of soy sauce and sake mixed with the steam of oden greeted me. The staff welcomed me with a cheerful "おかえり" (Welcome back), and for a moment, I felt like a local Osaka resident returning home late at night. I thought it would just be a quick meal to fill my stomach, but after the first bite, I wanted to spin around in joy right there in the restaurant! I even promised the owner on the spot that I’d return before leaving Osaka! The menu only offers two courses: the Saki Course for 7,000 yen and the Mini Course for 4,000 yen. Each person is also required to order at least one drink (menu attached in the last photo). 1️⃣ Sashimi Platter: The fatty tuna belly was as smooth as silk, and the vinegar-marinated mackerel shimmered like pearls. Each slice of fish was so fresh it felt like it carried the breath of the ocean, with a bouncy texture that was utterly addictive! 2️⃣ Oden Platter: The radish soaked up the kombu broth, and with a gentle poke of the chopsticks, amber-colored broth oozed out. The most delightful surprise was the mochi-filled tofu pouch. When bitten into, the aroma of glutinous rice and bonito burst forth, warming me up as if I had swallowed a sip of a springtime hot spring. 3️⃣ Six Types of Tempura: The pickled plum tempura defied all expectations, with its tartness perfectly sealed within the crispy batter, delivering a refreshing burst with every bite. The sukiyaki-style wagyu tempura dipped in egg yolk tasted just like a rich sukiyaki dish. The tiger prawn tempura was so crispy you could eat the shell, with its sweetness exploding in your mouth. 4️⃣ Tempura Chazuke: Leftover tempura crumbs were soaked in tuna broth, sprinkled with roasted tea powder and shredded seaweed. The rice absorbed the broth, creating a delightful interplay of crunchiness and softness on the palate. This final dish left me brimming with happiness! I strongly recommend first-time visitors to Osaka to add this izakaya to their must-visit list! Here, you’ll not only savor authentic flavors but also experience those simple yet heartwarming dining moments reminiscent of "Solitary Gourmet."