Whether you’re seeking more rustic, down-to-earth bistro fare or craving the more rarefied Michelin-starred stuff, you’ll find incredible Japanese interpretations of French cuisine in Osaka, both modern and traditional.
Bistrot d’Anjou - image © Florentyna Leow
Osaka has its fair share of French restaurants. Not all of them are great, but we’ve narrowed down a few of the good ones out there. If you need a break from all the Japanese food, a French lunch or dinner might just be the way to go.
- Hajime (Central Osaka; expensive)
With three Michelin stars to its name, Hajime is considered one of the best restaurants in Osaka. It’ll be a very special meal, but whether it’s worth the sticker shock or not depends on how much you like rarefied fine dining. Go only if you’re willing to splurge. - Bistrot d’Anjou (Minami; moderate)
If you’re craving hearty comfort food of the European variety, head over to Bistrot d’Anjou in Shinsaibashi. This charming, well-loved French bistro has been serving up some fine, authentic brasserie fare to Osakans for the last 40 years! - La Cime (Central; expensive)
For a truly special Japanese-French dinner that’s worth the money and the Michelin stars, look into snagging a reservation at the hallowed La Cime in the Hommachi district. Chef Yusuke Takada’s creations will make for a dinner to remember. - Pierre (Kita; expensive)
One Michelin-starred Pierre at the Intercontinental Hotel in Umeda is a great choice when you’re looking for a special occasion French dinner and a selection of great wines. Dinner and sweeping panoramic views of Osaka? Your romantic date night is sorted!
Best Osaka Restaurant Recommendations
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- Best French Restaurants In Osaka
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Where Are These Places Located?
See these places on the Inside Osaka Google map:- Open the Osaka map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Osaka Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
- Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka, Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Compare flight prices and timings to find the best Japan flight deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
