Osaka 2-Day Food Itinerary: Top Eats & Tourist Attractions

Osaka is not only known for its bold, flavourful cuisine—it’s also one of Japan’s most exciting tourist attractions. For Korean travellers with limited time, this Osaka 2-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of local food and culture.

Whether you’re in the city for a weekend getaway or during a business trip, this guide is your quick and tasty route through the best of Osaka tourist attractions, with meals you’ll dream about long after your trip.

Kick off your day at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a lively food paradise where locals shop for fresh ingredients. Try seafood bowls, grilled scallops, or wagyu beef skewers—a rich and tasty breakfast for true food lovers. If you’re short on time, grab tamago-yaki (Japanese omelette) or takoyaki (octopus balls) to eat on the go.

Head to Shinsekai, a retro district full of local character and charm. Here, taste kushikatsu, Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers, at Kushikatsu Daruma. Remember: no double-dipping in the sauce! It’s a fast, fun, and delicious way to enjoy a quick lunch while exploring the city’s old-school side.

In the evening, experience Osaka’s most famous area—Dotonbori. The streets come alive with neon lights and sizzling food stalls. Try the popular okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) at Mizuno or Chibo, then move on to more takoyaki from local favourites. Enjoy your food by the canal with views of the iconic Glico sign—a picture-perfect moment!

Still hungry? Wrap up your night with a visit to Ichiran Ramen or discover a hidden izakaya (Japanese pub) nearby. Order a steaming bowl of ramen or enjoy small dishes with a glass of plum wine or a refreshing highball. It’s the perfect way to end your first day in Osaka.

Start slow with brunch at a stylish café in Namba or Uehommachi. Many cafés offer fusion menus and excellent coffee. Afterwards, explore a local grocery market or visit a depachika, the food floor in department stores. You’ll find local snacks, pastries, and even souvenir sweets to take home.

For lunch, head to Umeda District. Try Osaka-style udon, which is lighter and made with Kansai dashi (soup stock), or enjoy a crispy tonkatsu (pork cutlet). Don’t miss the chance to visit dessert cafés that serve matcha parfaits, Japanese soufflé pancakes, and more. Hankyu Umeda’s basement food floor is a must-see for food lovers.

In the evening, you can treat yourself to a luxury meal. Try a traditional kaiseki course or omakase sushi at a high-end restaurant. If you prefer something simpler, enjoy a meal at a Michelin-recognised ramen or tempura shop—you’ll get amazing flavour without spending too much. Finish your food journey with a local dessert like mochi or melonpan ice cream.

• Learn a few Japanese food phrases, such as “Oishii” (delicious) or “Sumimasen” (excuse me), to enhance your dining experience.
• Many small food stalls accept only cash, so prepare some yen in advance.
• To avoid long queues, visit popular spots early or during off-peak hours.

For convenience while exploring Osaka, stay in areas like Namba or Umeda, which offer easy access to food, transport, and top tourist attractions. If you’re planning to extend your trip to Kyoto, consider staying at Travelodge Honmachi Osaka—a comfortable and conveniently located hotel that serves as an excellent base for day trips to Kyoto.

Whether you’re planning an Osaka travel course or simply exploring with your appetite as your guide, this Osaka 2-day itinerary has everything a food-loving traveller could want.

With every bite, you’ll experience the city’s warm, welcoming energy—proof that in Osaka, the way to the heart truly is through the stomach.