When visiting Osaka, besides authentic Japanese cuisine, don’t miss the historic flavors of Japan’s Western-style cuisine! This time, I visited the famous Jiyuken Namba Honten to try its signature curry rice.
Founded in 1910, Jiyuken is one of Osaka’s most iconic long-established Western-style restaurants, with more than a century of history. Its popularity definitely lives up to the hype! Even outside peak dining hours, there are still plenty of people waiting outside. The Namba main location in particular is a famous restaurant that many tourists make a point of visiting while in Osaka.
The curry rice here is very different from typical curry. The rice and curry are mixed together beforehand, without many toppings—mainly just rice, curry, and ground meat. The most distinctive part is the raw egg on top! I recommend first trying a bite as is to appreciate the aroma of the curry, then mixing in the egg yolk to make the texture smoother and richer. The curry has a noticeable spiciness and a flavor geared more toward adult tastes. People who enjoy bold flavors will probably really like it.
If you want something more filling, you can add a pork cutlet and make it a set meal. The crispy, savory pork cutlet goes well with the rich curry, making for a very satisfying meal! This seemingly simple bowl of curry rice carries a century of Osaka’s Western-style culinary culture. If you’re shopping in Namba, consider stopping by for a meal and experiencing the unique charm of this long-established restaurant!
