City Guide: 10 Osaka Cafes That We Love
Known mainly for its thriving comedy scene and all-things-fried soul food, Osaka also offers a variety of lesser-known cafes that are off-the-beaten path from neighboring Kyoto. We have compiled 10 Osaka-based cafés for the weary traveler with noteworthy coffee & tea offerings and thoughtfully designed interiors, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
1. Wad
Tucked away on the second floor of a nondescript building, Wad is a thoughtfully appointed cafe and gallery space with a small collection of handmade ceramic tea bowls that you can choose for your matcha to be served in. We recommend sitting at the bar, where you can make small talk with the tea baristas as they brew your tea right in front of you.
Details –
542-0081
Toushin Bill 2F
4 Chome−9−3 Minamisenba
Chuo Ward
Osaka
2. Mochisho Shizuku
An elevated take on the centuries-old Japanese confectionary mochi, Mochisho Shizuku offers a rotating menu of artisanal mochi creations in a tranquil setting. The artfully designed interior – complete with a robust stone slab table and brushed concrete walls – alone is worth a visit.
Details –
550-0013
1 Chome-17-17 Shinmachi
Nishi Ward
Osaka
3. Tsuboichi
A newly opened and more modern take on its Sakai headquarters, Tsuboichi Namba is a refined cafe known for its rich matcha, earthy hojicha, and seasonal tea-inspired confections. Originating from the hometown of wabi tea founder Sen-no-Rikyu, Tsuboichi tea has been embraced by the local community for over 160 years.
Details –
542-0076
5 Chome-1-60 Namba SkyO 5F
Chuo Ward
Osaka
4. Ijiri Coffee
Tucked away in a nondescript alley off Taisho Station, Ijiri Coffee is a cozy hideaway known for its otherworldly atmosphere and rich, home roasted coffee. Nostalgic music tinkles in the background as owner Ijiri-san carefully prepares your drink.
Details –
551-00021
Chome-4-11 Sangenyahigashi
Taisho Ward
Osaka
5. Kohoro
Equal parts cafe and ceramics shop, Kohoro is a must-see for every ceramics enthusiast. Located in the midst of a busy financial district, Kohoro offers a quiet respite from the outside chaos and dedicates most of its space to a rotating collection of locally-made ceramics and unique home goods that would make perfect gifts for your loved ones back home.
Details –
541-0042
3 Chome-2-2 Imabashi
Chuo Ward
Osaka
6. Utena Cafe
Located in Nakazakicho, a neighborhood known for its array of shops and studios refurbished from traditional Japanese homes, Utena Cafe is a cozy hideaway that retains much of its original structure’s undeniable character. Its charcoal-stained columns and hardwood floors take you back to a time when coffee was made to be enjoyed over an entire afternoon.
Details –
530-0015
1 Chome-8-23 Nakazakinishi
Kita Ward
Osaka
7. HS
Though HS may not be a cafe, it is a must-see location for every ceramics enthusiast. Owner Hayashi-san and his wife are deeply passionate about Japanese mingei and curate ceramics from all over Japan to display at their two gallery spaces in Nara and Osaka. Keep an eye on their website for upcoming events and exhibitions.
Details –
550-0013
4 Chome-3-4-3F Shinmachi
Nishi Ward
Osaka
8. Seiso Kissaten
Seiso Kissaten is a small neighborhood cafe known for its thoughtfully appointed interior and notable variety of home roasted coffee beans. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup surrounded by antique furniture and wall hangings. A true coffee purist, they do not serve teas or other refreshments.
Details –
530-0043
4 Chome−1−2 Sato Building 1B
Kita Ward, Tenma
Osaka
9. Chashitsu
A bright and sun-drenched space, Chashitsu is a modern take on the traditional tearoom. They offer a variety of tea, coffee and snacks with shelves of books to be enjoyed on a leisurely afternoon. Their ohagi rice burgers are the perfect companion to a chilled glass of hojicha cold brew.
Details –
550-0014
1-16-14 Hello Life 1F
Nishi Ward
Osaka
10. Chano-ma
Located in the trendy Chayamachi district, Chano-ma is an airy and spacious cafe and restaurant located on the ninth floor of NU Chayamachi. Drenched in white decor, Chano-ma offers a unique lounging area where patrons can take off their shoes and enjoy their meals and refreshments on impossibly fluffy cushions.
Details –
530-0013
10-12 NU Chayamachi 9F
Kita Ward
Osaka