Osaka's Specialty "Kushi Katsu"—The Soul Food with a No Double Dipping Rule
When it comes to Osaka cuisine, takoyaki and okonomiyaki are famous, but
don't forget about "kushi katsu"!
The crispy batter, juicy ingredients, and the joy of dipping them generously in a special sauce is the highlight.
Known for its unique rule of "no double dipping,"
it's a beloved taste among locals and tourists alike as a staple of Osaka's street food.
This article will delve into the history of kushi katsu, famous shops, and dining etiquette!
What is Kushi Katsu?—A Crispy and Juicy Fried Delicacy
1. Basic Information about Kushi Katsu
Kushi katsu is a dish where beef, vegetables, seafood, and other ingredients are skewered and fried.
Coating it with breadcrumbs and frying it allows you to enjoy the crispy batter and juicy inside.
In Osaka, it's characterized by dipping it in a special sweet and spicy sauce.
Features and Main IngredientsBeef, pork, shrimp, quail eggs, onion, lotus rootBatterCoated with breadcrumbs and fried crispySeasoningSpecial sauce (sweet and spicy)How to EatDip in sauce only onceFamous AreasOsaka's Shinsekai, Umeda, DotonboriHistory of Kushi Katsu and Osaka Culture
1. The Birth of Kushi Katsu
Kushi katsu is said to have originated in post-war Osaka's Shinsekai.
It was created as an affordable and delicious dish that workers could easily eat.
Initially, it was beef skewered and fried, but
gradually, vegetables and seafood were added, expanding the variety.
2. What is Osaka's "No Double Dipping" Rule?
Osaka's kushi katsu has the unique rule of "no double dipping."
This is because the sauce is in a shared container,
and for hygiene reasons, you are prohibited from dipping a skewer back into the sauce after taking a bite.
Tip for When Sauce is Running Low
→ Use cabbage to scoop the sauce!
Many kushi katsu restaurants offer free cabbage,
which can be used to scoop up sauce, allowing you to enjoy more sauce without double dipping!
Top 5 Popular Kushi Katsu Restaurants in Osaka! Enjoy the Authentic Taste
1. Kushikatsu Daruma (Established in 1929)
Location: Osaka's Shinsekai
Opening Hours: 11:00–22:30
Features: Over 90 years in business! The original "no double dipping" restaurant
2. Yaekatsu (Famous for Crispy Batter)
Location: Osaka's Shinsekai
Opening Hours: 10:30–22:30
Features: Known for its light, crispy batter! Always a queue at this popular spot
3. Tsurukameya (Affordable and Hearty)
Location: Osaka's Dotonbori
Opening Hours: 10:00–23:00
Features: Reasonably priced from 100 yen per skewer! Popular with tourists
4. Kushikatsu Tanaka (Famous Nationwide Chain)
Location: Locations in Umeda, Namba, and more
Opening Hours: 17:00–24:00
Features: A famous chain that spread kushi katsu nationwide
5. Tengu (A Beloved Local Spot)
Location: Osaka's Tennoji
Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00
Features: A hidden gem frequented by locals!
Tips for Enjoying Kushi Katsu Deliciously!
1. Eat While Hot!
Freshly fried is the most delicious!
It's best to take a bite while the batter is still crispy.
2. Enjoy the Variety!
Kushi katsu comes in many varieties, so it's recommended to try different kinds!
Types and FeaturesBeef Kushi KatsuThe most standard kushi katsuShrimpLike crispy fried shrimpLotus RootEnjoy the crunchy textureQuail EggSmall and easy to eatCheeseDeliciously melty cheese!Useful Information for Travelers
1. Where to Enjoy Kushi Katsu?
The main areas to enjoy kushi katsu in Osaka are these three:
- Shinsekai (around Tsutenkaku): The mecca of kushi katsu! Home to many famous establishments
- Dotonbori: A popular area with tourists
- Umeda: Many izakaya-style kushi katsu spots popular with office workers
2. How Much Does Kushi Katsu Cost?
Typically, 100-200 yen per skewer.
Ordering a set menu allows you to enjoy around 10 skewers for about 1000 yen!
3. Is Kushi Katsu Available for Souvenirs?
While kushi katsu is best enjoyed freshly fried,
the "kushi katsu sauce" is popular as an Osaka souvenir!
You can recreate the authentic flavor when making kushi katsu at home.
Conclusion and Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
- Kushi katsu is a staple of Osaka's street food with a "no double dipping" rule!
- Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda are famous areas.
- Diverse varieties including beef, vegetables, and cheese!
- The combination of crispy batter and special sauce is exquisite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was kushi katsu born?
A: It originated in the 1930s in Osaka's Shinsekai.
Q: Can kushi katsu be taken out?
A: It's possible, but it's recommended to eat it freshly fried in the restaurant for the best flavor!
Q: What does kushi katsu sauce taste like?
A: It's a sweet and spicy soy-based sauce that pairs well with any ingredient!
Final Note
When visiting Osaka, don't miss the must-eat B-grade gourmet "kushi katsu"!
Enjoy the crispy texture of freshly fried skewers while sightseeing!
