Kougaryu (Shinsaibashi)

lemi posted a recommendation

3 years ago

On the other hand, Kougaryu prefers to stick strictly to basics. The shop has been passed from father to son, along with it, a tried-and-tested recipe from almost 40 years of Takoyaki domination. Mr. Tadaka, the founder’s son and the current owner, focuses on refining their solid recipe. They even whip up a homemade mayonnaise to mix with their Takoyaki sauce. Mr. Tadaka has experimented with tomato-garlic and bacon-corn fillings. What’s worked, though, is Moroccan octopus and “yamaimo” (Japanese yam)—an improvement on the original recipe. Kougaryo’s most adventurous hit is a Black Pepper, Salt, and Mayonnaise combo you can squeeze a little Lemon onto. It’s a simple improvement that goes a long, long way. Customers that knew Mr. Tadaka’s father, The Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand, and the area’s fashionable crowd all seem to agree that classic and simple never goes out of style.

The Talk-oyaki of the Town

Hokkaido Takoyaki (SM Makati)

elaine posted a recommendation

2 years ago

Their Kani & Mozzarella is the best! Get six pieces at just PHP119 (about USD1.50)! So. Good.

8864

lemi posted a recommendation

2 years ago

Pair a plate of takoyaki (たこ焼き, octopus balls) with sake or wine at 8864! The tapas-style place serves their Takoyaki hot, made with a rich and creamy batter that spoils the taste buds in every bite! Do be careful, though, as the savory balls are served straight out of the pan—best to wait a few seconds before digging in!

Aizuya (Namba)

lemi posted a recommendation

3 years ago

If rumors are to be believed, Takoyaki can be traced to Aizuya. The humble Takoyaki shop has been open since 1935 but they’re still taking chances. You can opt to swap out the octopus for something a little heftier like beef tendon, and even the dough and fillings are so tasty that they don’t serve anything with sauce. Big risks like theirs pay off, because The Michelin Guide Kyoto and Osaka has awarded them consistently with the Bib Gourmand (an award for restaurants with exceptional food at moderate prices) from 2016 to 2018. Order the sampler and try out what other surprises Aizuya has cooking in the kitchen!