Yakitori Tsuruya Osaka Nakanoshima Review 2026: Hidden Gem Near Wellina Hotel

Hey there, fellow travelers!🐰

Today marks the 10th installment of my Osaka & Kyoto travel series!

I'm thrilled to share with you what became the most memorable yakitori spot from my recent trip to Osaka.

My husband and I stumbled upon this hidden gem, 'Yakitori Tsuruya,' while searching Google Maps for a great restaurant near our accommodation, 'Wellina Hotel Premier Nakanoshima West.'🍺

530-0002 Osaka, Kita Ward,

Sonezakishinchi, 1 Chome−4−17 Yu Bldg, 2F

⏰Hours

Daily 6:00 PM ~ 1:00 AM (Closed Mondays)

⭐Highlights

Located on the 2nd floor, this cozy and atmospheric spot features an intimate bar counter with about 8 seats.

🏮 Cozy Ambiance with Authentic Japanese Charm

As you head up to the 2nd floor, you'll discover this small, hidden gem of a restaurant. With only around 8 seats at the bar, it’s not ideal for large groups but perfect for solo travelers, couples, or friends looking for an intimate, quiet evening!

Upon entering, the friendly female owner will kindly ask you to wait briefly. Don't be alarmed! Just wait outside for a moment, and she'll prepare your spot and guide you to your seat. 😉

Once seated, you'll be served the customary *otoshi* (a small appetizer that acts as a cover charge). While I don't recall the exact price, it was quite affordable.

As soon as we sat down, we immediately ordered a refreshing draft beer (~$3) and began exploring the menu! 🍻

🍢 Highly Recommended: Life-Changing Negima & Other Must-Trys

1. Negima (Chicken & Scallion Skewer, ~$1) - ★★★★★ Essential Order!

If you come here, you absolutely MUST order the 'Negima' (chicken and scallion skewer) without hesitation! When we visited around 10 PM, there were only two pieces left, and we barely managed to snag one each. It's their most popular item and often sells out, so try to get it early!

Having traveled extensively throughout Japan, both my husband and I immediately agreed that this was "the best Negima we'd ever tasted!" We gave it a resounding thumbs-up!👍

2. Chicken Liver (~$1)

The ingredients here are incredibly fresh, and it really shines through! We decided to try the chicken liver skewer, and it was absolutely delicious. It was incredibly tender, moist, and completely free of any gamey taste.

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3. Tsukune (Chicken Meatball, ~$2), Chicken Wing (~$2) & Chicken Skin (~$1)

From the savory *shio tsukune* (salt-seasoned chicken meatballs) to the crispy, flavorful chicken skin and perfectly grilled chicken wings—every bite was a delight!

I'd been a little weary of the overly salty dishes I'd encountered throughout my Osaka trip, but here at Tsuruya,

the seasoning was absolutely perfect! It made it impossible to stop eating!

And don't forget to try the grilled onigiri – it's a fantastic side dish!🍙

💡 My Top Tips for Visiting!

✅Ordering Advice

The male owner meticulously grills each skewer, so orders can take a little time to come out! If you prefer a continuous flow of food, I recommend ordering a good selection of dishes at the beginning of your meal.

✅Atmosphere

Both owners are incredibly friendly, and you can enjoy pleasant small talk with them! When we visited, there were no other Korean guests, but many Western travelers, which gave the place an even more exotic and international vibe.

This place was so satisfying that we promised ourselves we'd make it our absolute top priority for any future return trips to Osaka!

If the bustling and sometimes overwhelming Namba area isn't quite your scene,

then make sure to head to 'Yakitori Tsuruya,' a hidden gem with a fantastic atmosphere in Nakanoshima, and enjoy some delicious yakitori with a refreshing draft beer!

And of course, no day in Japan is complete without a Japanese convenience store haul!🩷

May Osaka Travel #9 | Recommended affordable accommodation in Osaka! Wellina Hotel Premier Nakanoshima West, Standard Twin Room with large public bath, 3 nights, self-funded reviewblog.naver.com