When most people think of Japanese food, the usual suspects come to mind—sushi, ramen, and takoyaki. But what if you took a step off the beaten path? Osaka, Japan’s vibrant food capital, is also home to some truly exceptional basashi—slices of raw horse meat that are as fresh as they are flavorful. In this article, we’ll introduce five top-notch spots in Osaka where you can savor this traditional delicacy. Whether you're a curious foodie or a seasoned traveler, these picks promise a deeper dive into Japan’s culinary heritage, brought to you from a local’s perspective.
Osaka and Basashi: A Deliciously Under-the-Radar Discovery
Osaka has long been known as the city where you “eat ‘til you drop,” attracting gourmets from around the world. While street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki are crowd favorites, horse meat—especially raw, sashimi-style basashi—is a hidden treasure gaining quiet popularity among locals and in-the-know travelers.
Not only is horse meat tender and flavorful, but it’s also lean, high in protein, and rich in iron—making it a smart choice for health-conscious diners. Sourced fresh from famed regions like Kumamoto and Fukushima, top-grade horse meat is transformed into exquisite dishes by Osaka’s skilled chefs.
What you’ll find isn’t just a novelty—it’s a fully developed culinary tradition that opens a whole new window into Japanese food culture. Dive in, and your trip to Japan might just become even more memorable.
Sakuraniku Ryori Bashunro – Kitashinchi Main Branch
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hmxsnm2ZcuLpSUd96
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27000215/dtlphotolst/smp2/)
Tucked away in the upscale neighborhood of Kitashinchi, Sakuranko Ryori Bashunro has been a local favorite for nearly 20 years. Specializing exclusively in cherry blossom meat (a poetic term for horse), this restaurant sources its meat fresh from Kumamoto every day. Their basashi, sakura hot pot, and grilled sakura meat served on volcanic plates from Mt. Aso are standouts.
A highlight is the basashi sushi platter, which features an array of cuts like toro, belly, and lean slices—each paired with unexpected twists like balsamic vinegar or horseradish, offering a refreshingly modern take on a traditional dish. With private rooms and counter seating in a tranquil Japanese-style setting, it’s a refined space perfect for a special night out or business dinner.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27000215/dtlphotolst/smp2/)
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Ketobashiya Champion – Fukushima Branch
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/2w9FgDUUU3NDgQpq5
(Source.1:https://ketobashiya.jp/)
Just a two-minute walk from JR Fukushima Station, Ketobashiya Champion is your go-to spot for a more casual yet satisfying horse meat experience. The fresh meat, delivered straight from Kumamoto, is served in a variety of ways—sashimi, simmered, grilled—so you can explore the full range of flavors and textures.
Bonus: the vegetables and brown rice served here are grown by the restaurant itself, adding an extra layer of care to your meal. Their rotating selection of Japanese sake pairs wonderfully with each dish. Whether you're in the mood to try a rare cut or simply enjoy a laid-back food adventure, this cozy eatery has you covered.
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(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270108/27053202/dtlphotolst/smp2/)
Bar-Style Horse Meat: PERO – Umeda Ohatsu Tenjin
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/hn3rj5eaAUULJLwt9
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27073320/dtlphotolst/?smp=2&sby=D&srt=normal&PG=2)
Located in Osaka’s lively Umeda district, PERO offers horse meat with a twist—in a trendy, izakaya-meets-wine-bar setting. Warm wooden interiors make it a favorite for casual dates, girls’ night out, or weekend hangouts.
On the menu? Everything from classic basashi to tataki and rare steak, all showcasing different dimensions of the meat. The key to the flavor? A specialty soy sauce sourced from Kyushu, crafted specifically for meat sashimi. Add to that a self-serve all-you-can-drink bar and projector-equipped seating, and you’ve got yourself a great spot for watching sports or throwing a mini party.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27073320/dtlphotolst/?smp=2&sby=D&srt=normal&PG=2)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27073320/dtlphotolst/smp2/)
Horse Meat Cuisine House – HORSE (Shinsaibashi)
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/paoLzPvaWU5T5c6MA
(Source.1:https://hitosara.com/0006076091/photo/)
A beloved staple in the Shinsaibashi area since 1982, HORSE is a family-run establishment where horse meat traditions are passed down through generations. Directly sourcing from the farm ensures ultra-fresh meat, and signature dishes like front-belly basashi and hot pot with horse tendon broth are absolute must-tries.
The hot pot, reminiscent of shabu-shabu, delivers such a deep, umami-rich flavor that you’ll want to drink every last drop of broth. With its warm hospitality and nostalgic vibe, HORSE is perfect for anniversaries, dates, or anyone looking to experience true comfort food with a twist.
(Source.2:https://hitosara.com/0006076091/photo/)
(Source.3:https://hitosara.com/0006076091/photo/)
Hatsuba – Osaka Suita Main Store
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/NRCzamUWFQxntqgx7
(Source.1:https://www.hotpepper.jp/strJ003693307/photo/)
A bit outside the city center in Suita, Hatsuba is a relaxed izakaya-style eatery where horse meat takes center stage. Featuring cuts like lean meat, heart, and the rare "kone" (neck fat), it offers an exciting lineup of textures and tastes.
You'll also find plenty of creative dishes like horse yukhoe (Korean-style tartare), horse cutlets, fried rice, and even croquettes. The warm lighting, spacious seating, and wide range of sake, shochu, and plum wine make it ideal for both small gatherings and group dinners. If you're curious about the full potential of horse meat, this is the place to explore it.
(Source.2:https://www.hotpepper.jp/strJ003693307/photo/)
(Source.3:https://www.hotpepper.jp/strJ003693307/photo/)
Final Thoughts
Basashi isn't just a curious delicacy—it's a window into the diverse, deep-rooted traditions of Japanese cuisine. Osaka offers a spectrum of places to enjoy it, from refined restaurants to stylish bars and homey diners. Each experience brings something different to the table, blending traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary flair.
So, if you're looking for a culinary adventure that goes beyond the guidebooks, try adding a basashi tasting tour to your Osaka itinerary. Who knows? You might just discover a story worth telling—one that's uniquely your own.
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