Are you a foodie looking for a unique culinary experience in Japan? Then you must try Okonomiyaki, the savory pancake that originated in Hiroshima. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Hiroshima, and with so many restaurants offering their take on the dish, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
That’s where our review comes in. We’ve scoured the streets of Hiroshima to bring you the best Okonomiyaki restaurants in town. From traditional to modern fusion, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in some of the best Okonomiyaki you’ll ever taste.
Key Takeaways
- Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a popular savory pancake dish that originated in Hiroshima and is known for its unique layered preparation method.
- There are many restaurants in Hiroshima that offer their take on okonomiyaki, with factors such as quality of ingredients, cooking techniques, and atmosphere being important considerations.
- Okonomiyaki Mura, a multi-level building with over 20 different okonomiyaki restaurants, and Nagata-ya, a traditional okonomiyaki restaurant that has been serving the dish for over 60 years, are among the recommended places to try okonomiyaki.
- Okonomiyaki is customizable and can be topped with a variety of ingredients such as green onions and dried bonito flakes, making it a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Understanding Okonomiyaki
You’re probably wondering what makes okonomiyaki so special, but let me tell you, it’s a savory pancake that’s customizable to your taste buds and a popular dish in Hiroshima.
The word ‘okonomi’translates to ‘what you like,’and ‘yaki’means grilled or cooked. This dish is made from a batter of flour, eggs, grated yam, and shredded cabbage, with additional ingredients of your choice, such as pork, seafood, or cheese.
The batter and ingredients are mixed together and then cooked on a griddle, usually in front of the customer. The final touch is a generous amount of okonomiyaki sauce, which is similar to Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise.
It’s common to add toppings like green onions, dried bonito flakes, or pickled ginger. The result is a delicious, filling, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Criteria for Evaluation
When evaluating okonomiyaki establishments, it’s important to consider their ingredients, cooking techniques, and overall atmosphere.
The quality of the ingredients used can greatly affect the taste and texture of the dish. Fresh vegetables and high-quality meats are essential for creating a delicious okonomiyaki. In addition, the batter used should be made with a good balance of flour and water to create a crispy yet fluffy texture.
Cooking techniques also play a crucial role in creating a great okonomiyaki. Traditionally, it is cooked on a teppan grill, which allows for even cooking and adds a nice charred flavor. The flip technique is also important to ensure that both sides are cooked evenly.
Finally, the overall atmosphere of the restaurant should be considered. A welcoming and cozy atmosphere can greatly enhance the dining experience and make it more enjoyable.
Okonomimura
If you’re looking for the ultimate okonomiyaki experience in Hiroshima, then you should definitely check out Okonomimura.
Located in the heart of the city, this multi-level building is home to over 20 different okonomiyaki restaurants, each with their own unique twist on the classic dish.
Some recommended dishes to try include the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the seafood okonomiyaki, and the cheese-filled okonomiyaki.
With so many options to choose from, it’s no wonder that Okonomimura is consistently rated as one of the best places to eat okonomiyaki in Hiroshima.
Overview and Location
As you wander through the bustling streets of Hiroshima, you’ll quickly discover that there are numerous okonomiyaki restaurants scattered throughout the city, each with its own unique style and flavor.
One of the most popular destinations for okonomiyaki lovers is Okonomimura, a multi-story building filled with more than 20 different restaurants serving up this savory dish.
Located in the heart of Hiroshima’s entertainment district, Okonomimura is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in some of the best okonomiyaki the city has to offer. With so many different restaurants to choose from, you’ll be able to find a version of the dish that suits your taste perfectly.
Whether you prefer it with pork, shrimp, vegetables, or a combination of all three, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings at Okonomimura.
Recommended Dishes and Reviews
You’ll definitely want to try out some of the mouth-watering dishes at Okonomimura, where each restaurant has its own unique spin on the classic savory treat.
One of the most popular dishes is the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which features layers of thinly sliced pork belly, noodles, cabbage, and a variety of other ingredients. The dish is cooked on a hot grill and topped with a sweet sauce and mayonnaise. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Hiroshima.
Another dish that is highly recommended is the seafood okonomiyaki, which is filled with fresh shrimp, squid, and other types of seafood. The combination of the seafood with the savory batter and toppings creates a delicious and unique flavor that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the more unusual variations, such as the cheese or mochi-filled okonomiyaki.
With so many different options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your taste buds at one of the many okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima.
Hassho
If you’re looking for a great place to try some delicious okonomiyaki in Hiroshima, Hassho is definitely worth a visit.
This cozy restaurant is located in the heart of the city and offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of different dishes.
Some of the most popular items on the menu include the classic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, as well as other tasty options like yakisoba and modanyaki.
So if you want to experience the best of Hiroshima’s food scene, be sure to check out Hassho and see what all the fuss is about!
Overview and Location
Located in the heart of Hiroshima, these top okonomiyaki restaurants provide a mouth-watering culinary experience. The city is known for its delicious version of the savory pancake dish, and these restaurants are the best of the best.
One of the most popular areas for okonomiyaki in Hiroshima is in the Okonomimura building, which houses several different restaurants all specializing in the dish. If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, head to Nagata-ya, which has been serving up their famous okonomiyaki for over 60 years.
Another great option is Okonomi-mura Chitose, which is known for its generous portions and delicious toppings. For a more modern take on the dish, try Sakura-ya, which offers unique and creative variations. And finally, if you’re looking for a view while you eat, head to Ajisai in the Hiroshima Station building for stunning views of the city and delicious okonomiyaki.
Recommended Dishes and Reviews
Indulge in the mouth-watering and creative variations of the popular savory pancake dish at these top spots, where customers rave about their recommended dishes.
At Okonomi-mura, try the special Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which is made with layers of noodles, cabbage, pork belly, and a fried egg on top. The result is a delicious combination of savory and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting more.
For a unique twist on the classic dish, head to Shintenchi, where their okonomiyaki is made with oysters. The oysters are cooked to perfection and pair perfectly with the other ingredients in the pancake. The restaurant also offers a vegetarian option, made with mushrooms and other vegetables, for those who prefer a meat-free meal.
No matter which dish you choose, you won’t be disappointed at these top okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima.
Okonomiyaki Kishibe
You’ll definitely want to try the mouth-watering okonomiyaki at Kishibe. This restaurant is known for its flavorful and fluffy pancakes that are filled with a variety of ingredients.
Here are a few items on the menu that you won’t want to miss:
- Pork belly and cheese: The combination of savory pork belly and gooey melted cheese is simply irresistible.
- Seafood mix: If you love seafood, you’ll love this okonomiyaki that’s loaded with shrimp, squid, and scallops.
- Kimchi and pork: For a spicy kick, try the kimchi and pork okonomiyaki. The tangy kimchi pairs perfectly with the tender pork.
- Cheese and corn: This might sound like an unusual combination, but trust us, it’s delicious. The sweet corn and melted cheese complement each other perfectly.
Kishibe is a popular spot, so be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours. But trust us, the delicious okonomiyaki is worth the wait. Plus, the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make the dining experience even better.
Ajisai
If you’re looking for a great place to grab some delicious okonomiyaki, you might want to check out Ajisai.
Located in Hiroshima, this restaurant has some amazing dishes that are worth trying out. Some of the recommended dishes include the shrimp and pork okonomiyaki and the Hiroshima-style tsukemen.
And don’t just take our word for it – many customers have raved about the quality of the food and the friendly service at Ajisai.
Overview and Location
Now let’s take a look at where you can find the best okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima.
One of the most popular areas to try this delicious dish is in the Okonomimura building located in the Naka-ku district. This building houses over 20 different restaurants, each with their own unique take on okonomiyaki. You can stroll around and take your pick from the various stalls, or try a few different ones to compare and find your favorite.
Another great location to try okonomiyaki is in the area of Hatchobori. This area is known for having some of the most traditional and authentic okonomiyaki restaurants in the city.
One of the most popular restaurants in this area is Nagata-ya, which has been serving up their special version of the dish for over 60 years. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect place to try this iconic dish. Don’t forget to add some Hiroshima oysters to your order for the ultimate experience!
Recommended Dishes and Reviews
As soon as you step into one of these local spots, the aroma of sizzling batter and savory toppings will entice you to try their signature dishes and leave you feeling satisfied. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is known for its unique preparation method where the ingredients are layered instead of mixed together like the traditional Osaka-style. This results in a fluffy and crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the umami-rich toppings.
Here are some of the recommended dishes and reviews from the best okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima:
| Restaurant | Recommended Dish | Review |
|---|---|---|
| Okonomimura | Modanyaki | "Okonomimura is the ultimate destination for okonomiyaki lovers. The Modanyaki here is a must-try. It’s a mix of noodles, cabbage, pork, and seafood, all cooked to perfection." |
| Nagataya | Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki | "Nagataya’s Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is hands down the best in town. It’s loaded with crispy bacon, fresh shrimp, and topped with a generous amount of okonomiyaki sauce and mayo." |
| Hassho | Butatama-yaki | "The Butatama-yaki at Hassho is a game changer. It’s filled with tender pork belly and creamy egg, and the sauce is just the right balance of sweet and tangy." |
No matter which restaurant you choose, you’re sure to have a delicious and satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to venture out and try different variations of okonomiyaki – you might just find your new favorite dish!
Okonomiyaki Mura
If you’re looking for a fantastic okonomiyaki experience, you need to check out Okonomiyaki Mura! This restaurant is located in Hiroshima and offers a variety of mouth-watering options, from seafood to vegetarian. Some of the most recommended dishes include the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and the oyster okonomiyaki.
Reviews rave about the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for any foodie.
Overview and Location
Let’s start by talking about the overall picture and where these top okonomiyaki spots are located. Hiroshima is famous for its style of okonomiyaki, which features layers of batter, cabbage, noodles, and meat or seafood all cooked together on a hot griddle. There are many restaurants around the city that serve this delicious dish, but some are definitely better than others.
In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at the best okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima, including their locations, prices, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Okonomiyaki Mura is one of the top spots on our list, located in the heart of downtown Hiroshima. This food hall is a must-visit for any okonomiyaki lover, as it features over 20 different restaurants all dedicated to this one dish. Each restaurant has its own unique take on the classic recipe, so it’s a great place to try a variety of flavors and styles.
Okonomiyaki Mura is conveniently located within walking distance of several major attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Shukkei-en Garden. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s definitely worth checking out!
Recommended Dishes and Reviews
Now, if you’re wondering what dishes to try at the top okonomiyaki spots in Hiroshima, look no further. Customers rave about the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with pork belly at Okonomiyaki Kishibe, which is cooked to perfection with crispy edges and a soft center. Another popular dish at this restaurant is the seafood okonomiyaki, which is loaded with shrimp, squid, and octopus. The generous portions and affordable prices make it a must-visit spot for any okonomiyaki lover.
Another great option is Nagataya, where they serve a unique version of okonomiyaki with noodles mixed in. The "modan-yaki"is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and is topped with a delicious sauce and mayonnaise. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the "shiru-nashi tama-kon"which has a raw egg cracked on top. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make Nagataya a top choice for those looking for a casual dining experience.
| Restaurant | Recommended Dish | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Okonomiyaki Kishibe | Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with pork belly | ¥800-¥1300 |
| Seafood okonomiyaki | ¥1000-¥1500 | |
| Nagataya | Modan-yaki with noodles | ¥800-¥1200 |
| Shiru-nashi tama-kon | ¥900-¥1300 |
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on seasonal ingredients.
Final Verdict
Overall, the top okonomiyaki restaurant in Hiroshima is clear – it’s a must-visit when in the city. After tasting the dishes and experiencing the atmosphere at the top restaurants in Hiroshima, it’s evident that one stands out above the rest.
This restaurant not only serves up delicious okonomiyaki but also provides a unique dining experience that cannot be found anywhere else. The final verdict is that if you’re in Hiroshima, you simply must visit this top okonomiyaki restaurant.
The food is cooked to perfection, the atmosphere is inviting, and the service is exceptional. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you won’t be disappointed with the quality and taste of the dishes served up at this restaurant. So, take a break from sightseeing and indulge in the flavors of Hiroshima’s best okonomiyaki.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of okonomiyaki and how did it become a popular dish in Hiroshima?
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese dish that has a long and rich history. The word "okonomiyaki"means "grilled as you like it,"which is a testament to the dish’s versatility. It is believed that okonomiyaki has been around since the Edo period, but it became popular in Hiroshima during the post-World War II era.
The dish is made by combining a batter of flour, eggs, and water with various ingredients such as cabbage, meat, seafood, and noodles, and then grilling it on a hot plate. The popularity of okonomiyaki in Hiroshima can be attributed to the city’s status as a port town, which allowed for a wide variety of ingredients to be easily accessible.
Today, there are many okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima, each with their own unique twist on this beloved dish.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at the recommended restaurants?
Looking for vegetarian or vegan options at the recommended restaurants in Hiroshima? You’ll be happy to know that many of the best okonomiyaki places offer alternatives to meat and seafood.
For example, some use tofu or mushrooms as a substitute for pork belly or squid. At others, you can customize your dish to exclude any animal products altogether. Just be sure to let your server know your dietary restrictions when ordering.
With so many delicious and accommodating options available, you don’t have to miss out on the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki experience.
How do the prices of the recommended restaurants compare to other okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima?
Okonomiyaki prices can vary greatly in Hiroshima, but the recommended restaurants that you asked about offer prices that are competitive with others in the area.
While there may be cheaper options available, the quality and uniqueness of the dishes offered at these top-rated restaurants are well worth the slightly higher prices.
Additionally, some of the recommended restaurants offer set menus or lunch specials that provide a good value for your money.
Overall, you can expect to pay a reasonable price for a delicious and authentic okonomiyaki experience at any of the recommended restaurants.
Is it necessary to make a reservation at any of the recommended restaurants or can you walk in?
If you’re planning to dine at any of the recommended okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance. While some restaurants may allow walk-ins, it’s generally better to secure your spot beforehand to avoid disappointment.
With the popularity of these restaurants among tourists and locals alike, it’s not uncommon for them to be fully booked during peak hours. So, save yourself the hassle and call ahead to make a reservation.
It’s a small effort that can make a big difference in ensuring you have a memorable dining experience.
Are there any unique toppings or ingredients used at the recommended restaurants that are not commonly found in other okonomiyaki restaurants?
If you’re wondering about unique toppings and ingredients in okonomiyaki, the recommended restaurants in Hiroshima are sure to satisfy. You’ll find everything from oysters and squid to cheese and mayonnaise as toppings. Some places even offer a version with a fried egg on top!
These toppings are not typically found in other okonomiyaki restaurants, making the experience at these recommended spots truly unique. So, if you’re in the mood for something different and delicious, be sure to check out these top-rated okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima.
Conclusion
So, you’ve now read about the best okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand what okonomiyaki is and what criteria you should look for when choosing a restaurant to try it at.
From Okonomimura’s bustling atmosphere to Ajisai’s cozy and traditional setting, each restaurant has its own unique charm. But in the end, it all boils down to personal preference.
Whether you prefer a more modern take on the dish or a traditional approach, there is a restaurant out there for you. So go ahead, try them all and decide which one is your favorite!
