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Yaekatsu in Shinsekai is one of the best places in Osaka to try kushikatsu—crispy deep-fried skewers served in a lively, old-school atmosphere.
What Is Kushikatsu?
Kushikatsu, also called kushiage, is an Osaka specialty of deep-fried skewers made with meat, seafood, and vegetables. Each skewer is coated in a light batter, covered in panko breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown.
A few things to know before you order:
- No double-dipping. Each table shares a communal dipping sauce, and dipping a skewer more than once is not allowed.
- Many shops display ingredients in a glass case—you can point to what you want or order by name.
- Skewers are served on a tray, often with raw cabbage to refresh your palate between bites.
Interested in making it at home? Try Nami’s Kushikastu recipe!
Dining at Yaekatsu
Located just steps from Tsutenkaku Tower, Yaekatsu is a long-time local favorite with a bright storefront and a steady line outside. Don’t be put off by the wait—the turnover is quick, and there are two storefronts next to each other. We waited about 10 minutes before being seated at the counter.
Inside, the atmosphere is casual and bustling. All seating is at the counter, giving you a front-row view of the frying action.
The menu is posted in Japanese on the wall, but ordering is easy. You can point to the skewers behind the glass or use your phone’s camera translator. Most skewers cost between ¥100–¥200, making it easy to try a wide variety.
Our Favorite Picks
We ordered a mix of seafood, meat, and vegetables:
- Shrimp (エビ)
- Scallop (ホタテ)
- Asparagus wrapped in bacon
- Octopus (たこ)
- Chicken breast
- Beef tendon skewer (すじ串)
Every skewer came out hot and crisp without being greasy. The scallop was tender and sweet, the bacon asparagus had a great crunch, and the beef tendon practically melted in our mouths.
Don’t Miss: Doteyaki (どて焼)
Yaekatsu also serves doteyaki, a side dish of beef tendon simmered in a sweet miso sauce. We ordered one bowl to share but quickly wished we had more. It was rich, savory, and topped with a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi (seven-spice blend) for a gentle kick.
How to Get to Yaekatsu (八重勝)
Train
Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Sakaisuji Line to Dobutsuen-mae Station. From Exit 1, the restaurant is just a very short 2-minute walk down the Janjan Yokocho arcade. From the Umeda area, it’s about 15 minutes.
Pro Tip: Bring cash. Most kushikatsu shops, including Yaekatsu, are cash-friendly and may have limited card acceptance. Arrive before lunch for the shortest wait, especially on weekends and holidays.
Should You Try Yaekatsu?
Yaekatsu delivers some of the best kushikatsu in Osaka, with fresh ingredients, quick service, and an atmosphere that feels both local and welcoming. If you’re exploring Shinsekai, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal that’s full of flavor and Osaka character.
More to Explore Nearby
After enjoying the famous deep-fried skewers at Yaekatsu, you are perfectly situated in the vintage Shinsekai district to explore essential Osaka landmarks, from the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower to cultural symbols of luck and the lively Namba area.
- Shinsekai – Immerse yourself in the old-school, nostalgic atmosphere of the surrounding entertainment district, famous for its retro charm and energetic downtown vibe.
- Tsutenkaku Tower – Climb the nearby iconic observation tower that dominates the Shinsekai skyline and offers panoramic views over the old town area.
- Namba District – Head north to explore Namba, one of Osaka’s main entertainment and shopping hubs, known for its neon signs and nightlife.
- Billiken – Discover the famous local symbol known as the “God of Happiness,” whose statues are prominent throughout the Shinsekai area and touched for good luck.
