Kushikatsu Daruma Tsutenkaku - Osaka, Japan

Another food unique to Osaka is kushikatsu - deep fried skewers with a variety of possibility. And Kushikatsu Daruma seemed like the right place to try it out because they offer English menu.

They have quite a few locations including one at Dotonbori area but the one we went to was in Shinsekai neighborhood. There were more than 1 location at Shinsekai as far as I know. Because we were following our Google maps and then I happened to see the Daruma mascot outside even though we haven't reached the location yet.

As soon as we walked in we noticed a waiting area with a family of 3 sitting there. We took our seats as well and felt that the place was a bit too smoky from all the frying activities inside. Then one of the employees opened up some of the windows to release the smoke.



There was a big group of locals consisting of all men that occupied one part of the room - drinking, ordering and chomping away. It's nice to know that the place wasn't really just a tourist attraction. Though there were a few suitcases left next to our waiting area.

Inside the restaurant

When we finally seated, the staff brought us different menus in different languages when he realized we didn't understand Japanese. We chose the Shinsekai combo with 12 pieces with the cost of JPY1700 (US15.50). The combo gave us a variety of items to try and then we could order some more in addition. Or more of those if you like any items on the combo. For drinks I got a soda and hubby ordered beer. And we also got a complimentary doteyaki (beef sinew stew with mirin and miso).

Daruma kushikatsu chef mascot (picture from Talesfromthetummy.com)

When the combo came out the staff explained to us what each skewer was. But as soon as she left, we had no clue what each one was. So we sort of guess most of the time. And then we just ordered another 5-6 more skewers.

There was a sauce provided on a communal dipping container. So double dipping is strictly prohibited. Most of the time I would dipped the whole skewer in and enjoy. The cabbage was provided  for one to scoop up sauce if extra sauce was needed.

Total bill came up to 3700 yen (about $34). It was I guess the most we spent for a single meal in Japan. But then again it included alcohol. And it was an interesting experience and unique dish.

English menu

One skewer at a time - dip all the way in - no double dipping please

Complimentary doteyaki - beef sinew and konyaku stew with miso and dashi

closer look of the sauce - a combination of sweet and tangy

Kushikatsu Daruma Tsutenkaku
Japan, 〒556-0002 Ōsaka-fu, Ōsaka-shi, Naniwa-ku, Ebisuhigashi, 1 Chome−６−８
kushikatu-daruma.com
+81 6-6643-1373