What is Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki? — How is it different from the Osaka style?
One of Japan's representative flour-based dishes is "Okonomiyaki".
Hiroshima's Okonomiyaki is particularly known for its unique style that differs from Osaka's version.
The most distinctive feature of Hiroshima Okonomiyaki is the "layered cooking".
While Osaka's Okonomiyaki is made by mixing ingredients together before cooking,
in Hiroshima, it is common to layer batter, cabbage, bean sprouts, meat, and noodles (or udon) before cooking.
Unlike the fluffy Osaka style,
Hiroshima Okonomiyaki is appealing for its sweetness of cabbage and texture of noodles!
The History of Hiroshima Okonomiyaki
A Flavor Born from Post-War Street Food Culture
Hiroshima Okonomiyaki originated during the post-war food shortage era from street stalls.
It evolved from a dish called "Issenyoushoku", which involved thinning wheat flour with water and cooking it like a crepe,
and layering whatever ingredients were available.
Adding cabbage, bean sprouts, meat, and noodles,
and finishing with sauce, resulted in the current Hiroshima Okonomiyaki.
Basic Recipe for Hiroshima Okonomiyaki
1. Cook the batter thinly like a crepe
Unlike Osaka's Okonomiyaki, the batter is spread thinly without mixing.
This thin batter serves as the base of the Okonomiyaki.
2. Pile on cabbage & bean sprouts generously
Another distinct feature of Hiroshima Okonomiyaki is the amount of cabbage used!
It sometimes uses more than twice the cabbage compared to typical Osaka Okonomiyaki.
As the cabbage steams while cooking, it enhances its sweetness,
offering a delightful crunchy texture.
3. Layer with meat and noodles
Top Hiroshima Okonomiyaki with pork belly and cook thoroughly.
Additionally, adding yakisoba or udon is key!
Coating it with sauce while cooking results in a hearty and satisfying dish.
4. Cook an egg and place it on top
Finally, add an egg to Hiroshima Okonomiyaki.
Flip the cooked egg on top,
giving the entire dish a soft and fluffy finish.
5. Finish with sauce & aonori topping!
Finally, generously coat with Hiroshima's sweet special sauce,
and sprinkle aonori and bonito flakes to complete it!
Top 5 Recommended Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Restaurants
1. Mitchan Sohonten (A famed long-established restaurant)
Location: Hatchobori, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Hours: 11:00–21:00
Feature: Known as the original Hiroshima Okonomiyaki establishment
2. Hassho (Authentic dedication)
Location: Yagenbori, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Hours: 16:30–23:00
Feature: Thick noodles are characteristic and popular among locals
3. Okonomimura (Themed park for Okonomiyaki)
Location: Shintenchi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Hours: 11:00–22:00
Feature: A "holy land" for Okonomiyaki with over 20 shops
4. Goemon (Also popular for modern-style)
Location: Around Hiroshima Station
Hours: 11:00–22:00
Feature: Trendy atmosphere recommended for tourists
5. Itchan (A hidden local gem)
Location: Yokogawa-cho, Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City
Hours: 11:30–20:30
Feature: Perfect balance of sauce and cabbage!
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Best time to eat Hiroshima Okonomiyaki?
Okonomiyaki is great for both lunch and dinner!
Especially during the lunchtime (11:30–13:30), popular restaurants get crowded,
so it's best to visit early.
2. Differences between Hiroshima and Kansai styles?
Comparison Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki Kansai-style Okonomiyaki Preparation Layered cooking Mixed cooking Noodles Included (soba or udon) Not included Texture Crunchy cabbage Fluffy Egg usage Added later Mixed into the batter
3. Are there take-home Okonomiyaki options?
At Hiroshima Station and the airport, frozen Okonomiyaki and Okonomiyaki sauce are available for purchase.
If taking it overseas, sauce and flour sets are recommended!
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Hiroshima Okonomiyaki is known for its "layered cooking"!
- It features cabbage and noodles for a hearty flavor.
- There are many renowned restaurants in Miyajima and Hiroshima City, so a taste comparison is recommended!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which is more popular, Hiroshima or Kansai Okonomiyaki?
A: Both are popular, but in Hiroshima, it's all about Hiroshima Okonomiyaki!
The inclusion of noodles makes it more filling and satisfying compared to Kansai style.
Q: Where can I buy Hiroshima Okonomiyaki sauce?
A: "Otafuku Sauce" is a representative Hiroshima Okonomiyaki sauce.
It can be purchased at supermarkets and airport shops.
Q: What are the eating manners for Okonomiyaki?
A: The authentic style is to eat it hot off the teppan (iron plate)!
If you want to add more sauce, it’s best to ask the staff.
When visiting Hiroshima, be sure to try the authentic Hiroshima Okonomiyaki!
