Osaka, a dazzling city in Japan’s Kansai region, is a must-visit destination for all travelers. Visitors are not only drawn to its famous tourist spots but also to the diverse culinary offerings that attract millions annually. This has earned Osaka the reputation of being the “Nation’s Kitchen”.
However, as a Muslim traveler in Osaka, my food journey was more complex. Despite Osaka’s rich culinary tapestry, there were challenges. After all, Japan isn’t primarily a Muslim country, and adhering to halal dietary laws, especially when far from home, is essential. For instance, pork, alcohol, and foods containing these are certainly off the menu.
Yet, if you’re a fellow Muslim thinking of traveling to Osaka and are uncertain about the halal food scene, don’t worry. In this article, I’ll walk you through my own Muslim-friendly culinary adventures in the city. Keep reading my guide to halal food for Muslim travelers in Osaka, Japan.
Use apps to identify halal products
Even though Japan might not be predominantly Muslim, the digital age bridges many such gaps. During my stay in Osaka, I primarily used two apps for halal products: Halal Japan and Halal Gourmet.
With Halal Japan, I had access to a comprehensive directory of halal products available in Japan — such as foods, snacks, beverages, medications, and even skincare. Scanning a product’s barcode instantly revealed its halal status. While not every product is listed, the app was invaluable.
Halal Gourmet Japan, on the other hand, was my foodie compass. Not only did it point me to halal restaurants in Osaka (and all over Japan), but it also guided me to the nearest prayer spaces and the Qibla direction. Truly a Muslim traveler’s best friend!
Discover Osaka's must-try Muslim-friendly restaurants
Osaka has seen a notable surge in the number of halal restaurants in recent years. To be very honest, during my culinary explorations through the city, I was pleasantly surprised by the extensive halal options available. This transformation is a reflection of the city’s adaptability and commitment to accommodate the diverse palate of its global visitors, especially Muslim travelers. Well, below are some Muslim-friendly restaurants in Osaka that became my absolute favorites.
1. Terang Bulan
Terang Bulan is a delightful Muslim-friendly restaurant that brings the flavors of Indonesia to Osaka. If you have a palate for bold Indonesian flavors, spiced to perfection, I’d recommend Terang Bulan as your go-to spot. At Terang Bulan, you can indulge in a range of Indonesian foods, from snacks such as spring rolls and tahu isi to main dishes such as chicken satay, rendang, ayam betutu, and bebek penyet.
Terang Bulan
Address: ARK MINE 1F, 2 Chome-2-10 Tokuicho, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0025
Opening hours: Lunch: 11:30am - 3pm; Dinner: 6pm - 10pm (daily)
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2. Ramen Honolu
What’s a trip to Japan without diving into a bowl of ramen, right? However, finding halal ramen in Japan can be a challenge, but in Osaka, I stumbled upon Ramen Honolu. Their delicious chicken ramen, with its soft noodles submerged in a rich broth, made my dining experience authentically Japanese and utterly delightful.
Ramen Honolu
Address: 2 Chome-5-27 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016
Website: Ramen Honolu
Opening hours: Lunch: 11:30am - 2pm; Dinner: 5pm - 9pm (daily)
3. Matahari Padang
In the heart of Osaka, close to the bustling Dotonbori area, I chanced upon Matahari Padang. This restaurant serves delicious Indonesian cuisine, accommodating Muslim dietary restrictions. Their menu boasts a variety of spicy and flavorful dishes, including the must-try Nasi Padang from West Sumatra, Indonesia. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the authentic taste of classic Indonesian cuisine at Matahari Padang.
Matahari Padang
Address: 〒542-0071 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Dotonbori, 2 Chome−1−8, Zelkova Tre, 5F
Website: Matahari Padang
Opening hours: Lunch: 11:30am - 3pm; Dinner: 6pm - 10pm (daily)
4. Ramen Ayam-YA Kyoto
During my travels, I came across Ramen Ayam-YA in Kyoto, which is a popular restaurant among Muslim travelers who love ramen. This restaurant is known for its specialty of chicken ramen, which is made with a tasty chicken broth and a variety of mouth-watering toppings. If Kyoto isn’t on your itinerary, don’t worry! I recently learned that they have a branch in Dotonburi, Osaka, where you can enjoy the same delicious bowl.
Ramen Ayam-YA Kyoto
Address: 室町新町 の 間錦小路下る 観音堂町 470, Kannondocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8222
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 11:30am - 2pm (closed on Wed)
Make your own halal foods from supermarkets that sell halal products
If a kitchen is available during your stay in Osaka, it might be a good idea to consider preparing your own meals. You can shop for groceries in several supermarkets that sell halal products. This way, you have complete control over the halal status of each ingredient you use, ensuring your dietary preferences and requirements are met.
Additionally, visiting Japanese supermarkets to obtain your ingredients allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. It’s a chance to explore the unique flavors, products, and grocery shopping habits of the Japanese people. It can be an enlightening experience to compare and contrast the offerings in Japanese supermarkets with what you might be accustomed to back home! The following are some supermarkets that sell halal products in Osaka.
Gyomu Super
Gyomu Super is a well-known supermarket chain in Japan that offers a diverse selection of halal products. This supermarket provides halal meats, nuggets, noodles, seasonings, and snacks, making it easy for Muslim residents and travelers to find all the ingredients they need to prepare their own tasty meals.
Life Supermarket
Another supermarket option to find halal ingredients in Japan is Life Supermarket. While it may not be as specialized as Gyomu Super, this supermarket occasionally stocks halal products, especially in areas frequented by international visitors, such as Osaka. Just remember to always check the packaging and certifications to ensure the halal authenticity of the products you want to buy.
Discovering halal food in Osaka can be an enjoyable experience
Osaka, with its energetic vibes and delectable dishes, shouldn’t intimidate any Muslim traveler. Apps, halal-certified restaurants, and supermarkets that stock halal goods are there to guide you. For me, the key was to stay informed, be prepared, and remain eager to uncover the halal gems that Osaka had to offer.
Believe me, with every bite, I felt more connected to this beautiful city and its warm embrace of all cultures and cuisines. It wasn’t just about filling my stomach; it was about filling my heart with memories that would last a lifetime. So, if you’re a Muslim who planning to visit Osaka, don’t worry too much and just enjoy your time in this vibrant city!
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