Osaka: Private Street Food Tour & Izakaya Night for Families

Summary

Retro alleys, kushikatsu bites & laughter in Osaka’s Shinsekai

You’ll taste Osaka’s best street food—from piping hot takoyaki to crunchy kushikatsu—in hidden spots only locals love. Guided by someone who feels more like a friend than a tour leader, you’ll stroll through Shinsekai’s retro alleys, play old-school games, share laughs over dinner in a cozy izakaya, and leave feeling like you’ve seen Osaka with new eyes.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to wander Osaka’s backstreets after dark with just your family and a local who actually knows which neon-lit izakaya won’t give you the side-eye? I didn’t know what to expect, honestly. We met our guide right outside Tsutenkaku Tower—he waved, grinning, and immediately handed my kid a tiny retro game token (I still have it in my pocket). The air was thick with fried batter and something sweet I couldn’t place. It felt like the city was humming under our feet.

We ducked into alleys where old men played shogi on crates and women called out orders over sizzling grills. Our first stop: kushikatsu. I tried to eat it politely but, well, the sauce dripped everywhere—our guide laughed and showed us how locals do it (quick dip, no double-dipping, “Osaka rule!” he said). The crunch was loud enough that my daughter giggled every time she bit in. And then came the takoyaki stand—steam rising up as they flipped those little octopus balls so fast my eyes couldn’t keep up. The outside was crisp but inside almost creamy; I burned my tongue because I couldn’t wait.

Somewhere between stops two and three, we passed a lantern-lit doorway where an old jazz record played. Our guide nodded at the owner, who gave us a shy wave—felt like everyone knew each other here. At the last izakaya, we squeezed onto low stools and tried sashimi with sake (juice for the kids). There was this moment when everything got quiet except for laughter from another table and the clink of glasses. I thought about how far we were from home but somehow not out of place at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Osaka's street food and culture

• Visit Tsutenkaku Tower area
• Take photos of cityscape and tower
• Enjoy street food and kushikatsu
• Experience Osaka's retro cityscape
• Immerse in lively local atmosphere
• Visit local izakaya for sashimi and sake

Top questions

Is this Osaka street food tour private?

Yes, it’s just for your group—no strangers join.

What foods are included on this family food tour?

You’ll try kushikatsu (fried skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), sashimi, and local drinks.

Does the tour include drinks?

Yes, one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink is included per person.

Are kids welcome on this Osaka food tour?

Yes! It’s designed for families and children are welcome.

Where does the tour take place?

Mainly around Shinsekai district near Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; you meet your guide near Tsutenkaku Tower.

How long does the tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but covers several stops in an evening stroll.

Are there vegetarian options?

The main dishes are not vegetarian but some flexibility may be possible; check ahead.

What’s included

Your evening includes guided walks through five local eateries in Shinsekai with tastings of kushikatsu, takoyaki, sashimi, plus one included drink (alcoholic or not) per person. You’ll also get insights into local drink customs from your guide—and plenty of chances to chat with Osakans along the way before heading off on your own night adventure.