Osaka is famous for its vibrant street food culture, and no trip to the city is complete without trying takoyaki – the beloved octopus-filled snack. Making your own Takoyaki can be a unique experience and unforgettable memory for your trip.
Located in some of Osaka’s most popular spots, including the new Grand Green Osaka, Takonotetsu blends tradition with fun, allowing visitors to dive hands-on into one of the city’s iconic dishes.

Takonotetsu has been a staple of Osaka’s food scene since its founding in 1979. With several locations across the city, it is renowned for serving some of the best takoyaki in Osaka. What truly sets Takonotetsu apart is its unique hands-on experience—diners can cook their own takoyaki right at their table, guided by friendly staff if needed.

This interactive style of dining has made Takonotetsu a favorite for both locals and tourists, offering not just a delicious meal but also a memorable experience. Whether you’re visiting one of their other Osaka locations or the new spot in Grand Green Osaka, Takonotetsu guarantees a taste of authentic Osaka culture.

Grand Green Osaka is located in the center of Umeda area. As one of the city’s newest landmarks, Grand Green Osaka is a sprawling complex blending lush greenery with stylish urban design. It’s the perfect destination for shopping, dining, and relaxation for tourists exploring Osaka.

Takonotetsu is conveniently situated on the 2nd floor of the North Building, making it easy to find as you wander through the bustling complex. Nestled in the heart of this lively venue, the restaurant stands out with its inviting exterior—a mix of traditional Japanese charm and contemporary touches.

Step inside, and you’ll find a cozy yet modern interior, with warm wooden accents and an open kitchen where the sizzling sounds of cooking fill the air. The lively atmosphere is perfect for groups, families, and solo travelers alike, and the friendly staff instantly make you feel at home.

Takonotetsu isn’t just about making your own takoyaki; the restaurant also boasts a diverse menu featuring okonomiyaki, teppanyaki dishes, and more. Whether you’re a takoyaki enthusiast or looking for a variety of Japanese flavors, Takonotetsu has something to satisfy your cravings.

For international visitors, they also provide an English menu. The takoyaki options alone are impressive, ranging from classic favorites like traditional octopus-filled takoyaki to more creative variations. For example, you can find unique twists like beef-stuffed or spicy takoyaki, catering to adventurous foodies.

While takoyaki is the star of the show, the menu also includes hearty okonomiyaki and sizzling teppanyaki items. These dishes allow diners to indulge in the rich flavors of Japanese-style grilled cuisine.

During our visit, we decided to try 4 kinds of takoyaki, including a classic one, a cheese-filled variation, a spicy type, and a pork and shrimp-filled type. For side dishes, we had “tonpeiyaki” and “soba meshi”, as is shown in the picture above.

Tonpeiyaki is a savory dish made by stir-frying pork and bean sprouts, then wrapping them in a fluffy egg omelet. While Sobameshi is a hearty combination of finely chopped yakisoba (fried noodles) and rice, stir-fried together on a hot iron griddle with a rich, tangy sauce.

Now it is time to roll up your sleeves and make your very own takoyaki!
You can find a laminated tutorial in both English and Japanese which clearly explains all steps to make takoyaki, including applying oil, adding fillings, and skillfully flipping the takoyaki to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

The process starts with applying oil to each hole and also the surrounding area. Then the staff will come to pour the batter evenly across the heated takoyaki griddle, followed by adding the chosen fillings. Once the fillings are added, you need to wait for a while and use skewers to carefully turn the batter into spherical shapes as they cook.

Mastering the art of flipping takoyaki is no easy feat—it requires just the right timing and technique to prevent the batter from sticking or breaking apart. At first, the takoyaki came out in rather odd shapes, and I found it challenging to flip them cleanly. However, the friendly staff was always on hand to provide assistance, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you meet any difficulties.

One important tip I learned was to avoid turning the takoyaki too early. Waiting until the batter firms up slightly makes the process much smoother. Additionally, keeping the skewers at a low angle rather than stabbing downward ensures a more professional finish.

Despite some initial struggles, the experience was incredibly rewarding, and we couldn’t help but feel proud of the golden, crispy takoyaki we eventually managed to create. With guidance from the staff, even beginners can enjoy the process and savor the fruits of their labor.

After the excitement of making takoyaki, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! But be careful—freshly cooked takoyaki straight from the griddle can be piping hot. Taking a moment to let them cool slightly is key to avoiding a burnt tongue, though the tempting aroma makes it hard to wait.

At Takonotetsu, the table is equipped with an array of condiments and toppings, allowing you to customize your takoyaki to suit your taste. Classic takoyaki sauce, with its rich and tangy flavor, pairs perfectly with fluffy bonito flakes (katsuobushi), savory seaweed powder (aonori), and creamy mayonnaise. These toppings are staples of the traditional takoyaki experience and are a must-try.

For those looking to experiment, you’re free to mix and match the toppings to create your own flavor combinations. During our meal, we tried the classic style first—a harmonious blend of sauce, mayo, and toppings that enhanced the crispy exterior and soft, gooey center. Next, we added a generous amount of mayonnaise and a sprinkle of aonori, which brought out a refreshing umami flavor.

In addition to the classic sauce, you can also try dipping in ponzu for a citrusy kick, sprinkle with rock salt to highlight the flavors, or enjoy them in a warm, savory dashi broth. These unique twists make each bite exciting and add to the fun of experimenting with different tastes.

Each bite was a burst of deliciousness, with the golden batter providing a satisfying crunch that gave way to the flavorful fillings inside. Whether you stick to the traditional way or go wild with the toppings, eating your self-made takoyaki is a fun and rewarding experience that makes the effort of cooking them all the more worthwhile.

From crafting your own takoyaki to savoring each bite, the experience at Takonotetsu is a delightful journey into Osaka’s rich food culture. Whether you’re a seasoned takoyaki lover or trying it for the first time, this hands-on adventure offers not only delicious flavors but also unforgettable memories, making it a must-visit spot during your time in Osaka.

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