Osaka is one of the most popular overseas travel destinations for Koreans, featuring a plethora of delicious restaurants and tourist attractions. The city is especially famous for its food, and making restaurant reservations is a crucial part of travel planning. In this article, we will explore how to reserve restaurants in Osaka and recommend some must-try spots.
How to Reserve Restaurants in Osaka
Making reservations at popular restaurants in Osaka is essential. This is especially true for Michelin star restaurants or famous okonomiyaki places, where securing a reservation can be quite challenging.
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Use Online Reservation Platforms
- Tabelog: This is the largest restaurant review site in Japan, where many eateries allow you to make reservations online.
- OpenTable: Some high-end restaurants in Osaka utilize this reservation platform.
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Make Phone Reservations
- While it is possible to make reservations by phone in Japanese, you may encounter difficulties if trying to use Korean. It’s a good idea to seek help from locals or people who speak Japanese fluently.
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Request Help from Your Hotel's Front Desk
- The front desk of your hotel can assist in making reservations. This can be particularly useful in upscale hotels where staff may speak English or be more equipped to handle your requests.
Recommended Restaurants
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Okonomiyaki
- Local or University Area: It is often said that the tastiest okonomiyaki can be found in neighborhood eateries or close to university campuses rather than in tourist-heavy areas. Here, you can enjoy generous portions and authentic flavors.
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Ramen
- Ilbungdang: Located in Umeda, Ilbungdang serves ramen with a firm texture. Be sure to try their 'kaetam' option, which allows you to add extra noodles to your bowl!
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Omurice
- Kyoto Kichikichi Omurice: While based in Kyoto, its proximity to Osaka makes it an accessible and worthwhile visit. Reservations are a must here!
Additional Tips
- Reserve Early: Since popular restaurants can be challenging to book, it's best to make reservations before finalizing your travel plans.
- Utilize Local Information: Gaining insights from locals or travel blogs can help you stay informed about the latest happenings and trending eateries.
To truly enjoy Osaka’s culinary scene, making reservations in advance and utilizing local resources is key. Wishing you a delicious journey ahead!
