ASIA . JAPAN
Osaka
Gluten-free places we’ve tried!
When I think of Osaka, the first thing that comes to mind is… FOOD.
If you search for this super fun city online, the iconic image will definitely be Dotonbori—a lively shopping area packed with shops, street-food stalls, quirky signs with 3D octopuses, and a thousand glittering lights.
My tip? Go at night and soak in the energy, colors, and chaos while enjoying some amazing takoyaki (and more—everything is delicious!).
Click on the arrow to learn more!
OKO takoyaki vegan vegetarian glutenfree
Not far from the bustling streets of Dotonbori, there’s a tiny place completely covered in messages and signatures left by travelers from around the world.
This restaurant is fully dedicated to making takoyaki, Osaka’s signature dish—but in a vegan version!
Soft, super tasty, and topped with a rich, savory sauce, they go perfectly with the cabbage salad, vegan mayo, and miso soup that come with the meal.
Grab a cold beer from the fridge and wait for your plate while reading all the quirky notes and fun facts that fill this one-of-a-kind spot!
Senza paura recommends: Try the vegetable tempura too—light and flavorful.
Downside: It’s a very popular spot, so go early before a long line forms outside!
TAKOYAKI
Genji-soba
Let me say it straight: here I had the best tempura shrimp of my life!
This is a restaurant entirely focused on soba—buckwheat noodles served cold or in broth, accompanied by soy sauce, daikon, wasabi, and crispy tempura.
They offer different menu sets, both with and without gluten, so if you’re celiac like me, I recommend asking for your food to be prepared with separate equipment. It costs a bit more, but peace of mind is priceless!
Senza paura recommends: Don’t miss the soba with tempura—and remember to dip your food in dashi and drink the soba cooking water at the end of your meal. What a treat!
Downside: Go early, and just to be sure, contact them via Instagram to confirm they’ll be making gluten-free tempura that day.
SOBA & TEMPURA
Tajimaya Shinsaibashi
Want to try wagyu beef?
We came here just for that, choosing a set menu with several courses.
For me, a special memory goes to the beef tartare with sea urchin appetizer—but I’m sure meat lovers will enjoy the expertly grilled filet too.
It’s a great way to try this prized meat without breaking the bank—I’d recommend it for those like us who don’t usually eat much meat but are curious to give it a go.
Senza Paura recommends: Show your gluten-free card and they’ll adjust the menu and dishes accordingly.
Downside: It’s located inside a shopping mall, so it can be a bit tricky to find.
Also, the grill might include tongue, intestines, and other offal. Not really my thing, but hey—when in Rome… 😄
WAGYU BEEF
Attention!
In Japan, celiac disease is not as well-known as it is in Italy.
As a result, the risk of cross-contamination is always something to keep in mind.
No worries: I suggest showing restaurants this gluten-free card wherever you go.
I’m confident they’ll do their best to help you out!
Alternatives for celiacs we haven’t tested
I did a bit of research for all the celiacs out there!
Unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to try these places ourselves, but hopefully they can serve as inspiration!
Click on each name to learn more!
Osaka Engine Ramen
RAMEN
Canelita Sweets
BAKERY
VeganCafe sister
CAFE
MERCY Vegan Factory
RESTAURANT
OKO – Fun Okonomiyaki Bar
OKONOMIYAKI
Spys Oasis, Medicinal Spicy Curry Gluten-free Bar
JAPANESE CURRY
