＊You can also read this article in Korean and Taiwanese. Please click on the links below.오사카 최고의 가이세키 & 일식 레스토랑, 오마카세 코스 제공大阪最好的懐石料理和日式餐厅，提供主厨推荐套餐Go to Featured Articles Top PageOMAKASE: Best Kaiseki & Japanese Restaurants in OsakaThis article explains the basic knowledge of "Omakase" cuisine, one of Japan's culinary traditions. At the end of the article, we introduce top-notch restaurants in Osaka, where you can enjoy Omakase course meals. Be sure to find your favorite restaurant!OMAKASE: What is the meaning of "Omakase"?When a restaurant menu in Japan lists an "Omakase course," it means that the chef's recommended dishes are served in a course format. In other words, it is a style where the selection of dishes is left to the chef.The "omakase" culture in Japan began with the street-side sushi stalls of the Edo period (1603-1868) and became established with the development of high-end sushi restaurants after the Meiji era (from 1868 onward). Based on the chef's high level of skill and a trusting relationship with the customer, it has now expanded to various genres of cuisine and has become a part of Japanese food culture."Omakase" is a style that allows people to fully enjoy the creativity and skill of the chef, and it is loved by many. Today, "Omakase" is spreading to countries outside of Japan as well. The reason this style is being embraced abroad is that the dining experience of enjoying a chef's skill and creativity is innovative and appealing to everyone. Along with Washoku, which is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, this spread signifies the global recognition and expansion of Japanese food culture.The Definition of Japanese Cuisine (Nihon-ryori/Washoku)Japanese cuisine encompasses a variety of dishes that express Japan's unique ingredients, cooking methods, and food culture. It features a diverse range of culinary styles, characterized by seasonal ingredients that reflect the changing seasons and are prepared with a focus on seasonality. Various cooking methods such as grilling, frying, steaming, and simmering are used to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients and pursue deliciousness. Methods that utilize raw ingredients, such as sashimi and sushi, are also common. The presentation and serving of dishes often incorporate tableware that matches the atmosphere and season. Japanese cuisine is an art that values seasonality and showcases seasonal ingredients. Traditional high-end Japanese cuisine includes styles like "Kaiseki (懐石- A)," "Kaiseki (会席- B)," and "Kappo." In English, both Kaiseki A and Kaiseki B are spelled and pronounced the same as "Kaiseki," but in Japanese, although they have the same pronunciation, they use different Kanji characters, 懐石 and 会席, and have different meanings.Differences Between Kaiseki A (懐石) and Kaiseki B (会席)Kaiseki (A) and Kaiseki (B) are distinguished styles of Japanese cuisine with deep historical and cultural roots. Even among Japanese people, the distinctions between A and B are not always well understood. Nowadays, some restaurants intentionally blur the differences between the two to enhance creativity and value of the cuisine. The following explanations of the two types of Kaiseki cuisine aim to provide helpful insights for your culinary experiences in Japan.Kaiseki (A)Kaiseki (A) originated from the simple meals served before a tea ceremony, with roots in the tea ceremony itself. Despite its simplicity, each dish is meticulously crafted with seasonal ingredients, presenting both beautiful appearance and delicate taste. The order of the courses is designed to enhance the diner's satisfaction. Starting with an appetizer that whets the appetite, followed by a soup to warm the palate and set a comfortable pace for the meal, each dish is thoughtfully integrated to create a harmonious dining experience. The tableware and presentation express the season, allowing diners to engage all their senses. Kaiseki (A) highlights the beauty of Japanese tradition and the essence of each season. Kaiseki (B)Kaiseki (B) has evolved as a cuisine served at banquets and celebratory events. This style also features a course format, allowing diners to enjoy a variety of dishes in small portions. Utilizing seasonal ingredients, it includes appetizers, sashimi, grilled dishes, simmered dishes, fried items, and more, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable dining experience. Designed to be enjoyed with sake, Kaiseki (B) emphasizes the harmony between food and drink. The presentation is also seasonally inspired and often lavish. Compared to Kaiseki (A), Kaiseki (B) is less strict about the order and types of dishes, allowing for more creative and relaxed dining.Omakase Dining in Kaiseki (A) & Kaiseki (B)Omakase, or "chef's choice," in Kaiseki (A) and Kaiseki (B) features dishes made with the finest seasonal ingredients. The chef-designed courses, starting with appetizers and progressing through soups, grilled items, simmered dishes, rice courses, and desserts, are carefully balanced and sequenced. This style of dining optimizes the preparation and serving process, allowing the chef's creativity and expertise to shine. Each dish flows seamlessly into the next, creating a unique and special dining experience.Kaiseki (A)Kaiseki (A) cuisine is composed of course meals using carefully selected seasonal ingredients, and many of these courses are offered in an Omakase style. Options may be available to accommodate guests' preferences and allergies, ensuring a highly satisfying and personalized dining experience. Kaiseki (B)Kaiseki (B) may offer a full Omakase experience or a combination of fixed and Omakase dishes, with greater flexibility in presentation. This adaptability allows for a tailored dining experience that meets guests' requests while maintaining the elegance and luxury of high-end seasonal ingredients. Common ElementsBoth Kaiseki (A) and Kaiseki (B) embody the essence of Japanese cuisine. Kaiseki (A) captivates with its simplicity and spirituality, while Kaiseki (B) impresses with its vibrancy and diversity. Both styles offer the utmost hospitality and flavors suited to various occasions, ensuring diners are thoroughly satisfied. Omakase in Kaiseki (A) and Kaiseki (B) emphasizes seasonality and allows diners to appreciate the chef's skills and creativity, resulting in a memorable and unique dining experience. You can enjoy the balance, discover new tastes, and experience the high-quality service that defines these culinary traditions. Each visit brings new discoveries and a special dining experience that reflects Japan's hospitality and traditional beauty.Enjoy the Traditional "Omakase" Cuisine in Japan!Overall, "Omakase" is a special and traditional style that allows diners to fully enjoy the chef's skill and creativity. With Omakase cuisine offered in various genres, you can enjoy it in different forms depending on the situation. An added benefit is that it frees you from the stress of choosing from a menu, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal. This is especially convenient for first-time visitors or at restaurants with extensive menus. When you travel to Japan, be sure to experience authentic "Omakase" cuisine in its birthplace.The Best Japanese & Kaiseki Restaurants in Osaka, Offering Omakase CoursesHere, we introduce top Japanese and Kaiseki restaurants offering Omakase courses. If you find an Omakase meal that suits your taste, please send us a reservation request through our service. Since these are all popular restaurants, we recommend making your reservations well in advance.
