Tanpopo

In 1999, a chef’s eclectic experience and affinity for creative cooking gave birth to Tanpopo, a fusion joint that channels Osaka’s go-with-the-flow attitude. Its lineup of French crepes, Osakan okonomiyaki and stir-fried noodles is centered around one common theme: food cooked on grill plates. A copper grill, flanked by two iron counterparts, serves as the chef’s canvas. As sparkling and red wines flow, the iron surface sizzles with succulent beef steaks and teppanyaki with oysters from Sakae in Nagoya. Diners might come for Tanpopo’s Michelin Bib Gourmand-winning Osakan-style okonomiyaki, which is built on a batter of cabbage, flour and egg, and stay for the yakisoba. Meanwhile, the fluffy omelets and knots of fish paste made with Akashi octopus are cooked on the copper plate. Dessert, such as rum-infused crepes, ties the concept together. The well-stocked wine cellar means no meal is complete without a toast. Located in Kitashinchi, Tanpopo has become a sought-after date spot. When you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation, come with a date who loves culinary explorations. Tanpopo is a 2024 Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant.