Osaka: Umeda Sky Building

When we visited Osaka, we didn’t really know what to expect. It is known as the ‘world’s kitchen’ due to the immense amount of food and beverage options the city hides deep within its core. It’s considered one of Japan’s largest modern cities, and we just happened to pass by on our way to Tokyo.

One of the most amazing attractions in Osaka is Umeda Sky Building. On paper, it may seem a little unremarkable. Yes, as a tourist, going up to the roof deck of a building doesn’t sound that exciting. What is there to do really? It is just a view after all.

But that’s just the thing — the view is the attraction.

On top of the Umeda Sky Building you gain access to a 360 degree view of Osaka and its bright lights and bustling city life. It’s a living, breathing smorgasbord of commercial spaces, world-class restaurants, and interesting people. The majestic Yodo River also runs right through city and you can witness all its glory from the roof deck.

We spent over two hours just taking in the view, enjoying the cool breeze and absorbing the unique atmosphere. The view truly is spectacular, and worth the time. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to visit Umeda Sky Building, don’t be. Just do it, you won’t regret it.

It’s not free though, you do have to chalk up 1,000 JPY per person, but it’s definitely worth the money. Along the way, check out the basement level of the establishment. They have a couple of restaurants there that offer Osaka’s famous Okonomiyaki.

We had the Pork Omelette and Okonomiyaki. To be honest though, the Okonomiyaki was a little too gingery for our tastes. The Japanese love to use ginger in their flavor profiles, which is something we aren’t really used to. We thoroughly enjoyed the Pork Omelette though and the authentic environment.

Back at Osaka Station, make sure to drop by 7eleven for a delectable selection of various Japanese pastries and snacks — stuff you can’t find in any 7eleven anywhere else in the world. The Japanese really know how to make snacks.

Osaka is a beautiful city and we really should have spent more time there than we did. All the more reason to make the trip back.

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Tung Po Dim Siu Yi Restaurant

My friend who works in Hong Kong took us to this “restaurant” near her place. While walking, she told us not to expect too much about the ambiance and cleanliness but she promised us that the food there was excellent. We’re not really picky when it comes to choosing where to eat, so long as the food is great!

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Good thing we agreed to eat there because Anthony Bourdain (you know, the guy who has the best job in the world: travels all over and eats all the best food you can possibly imagine) happened to visit that same resto and featured this on his show.

So we arrived at the place and yes, those are actual photos of the same exact place where the No Reservations host dined in. If cleanliness is your number one priority when choosing a restaurant, I’m not sure you’ll be too thrilled to eat here.

Tung Po is located above a wet market in Java Road. There are a lot of restaurants on this floor — it’s very well lit, with lots of tables and chairs, a lot of hungry people (both locals and tourists), busy staff, and steam from freshly cooked dishes! It’s quite chaotic and noisy but that’s the beauty of this place, it’s a go-to place for those who want to drink and eat authentic, delicious Hong Kong food!

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Tung Po Dim Siu Yi’s menu

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We wanted to try a lot of dishes but we only chose 3.

There was a lot of interesting food on the menu but we only ended up ordering three dishes:

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One of the dishes Anthony Bourdain also tried, Squid Ink Pasta

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Spare Ribs

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Buttered Garlic Shrimp

 

You can watch the No Reservations episode about Tung Po here.

The squid ink pasta was palatable, with the noodles al-dente and the sauce nice and flavorful, but squid ink isn’t really my thing. It’s a great discussion piece however, and I’m sure people will appreciate its adventurous quality.

The pork spare ribs however was my favorite dish among the three. The authentic preparation and burst of flavor did well to satisfy our late-night craving after a day on the road.

And of course, who could dislike buttered garlic shrimp? The prawns were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. And the garlic — oooh the garlic — absolutely yummy. Nothing can go wrong with these three ingredients.

Make sure you drop by Tung Po Seafood Restaurant when you’re in the North Point area. They’re open until late at night and you won’t regret the decision to eat there.

Tung Po Seafood Restaurant 東寶小館

2/F Java Road Municipal Services Building
99 Java Road, North Point
北角渣華道99號渣華道市政大廈2樓
Tel:+852 2880 5224
MTR: North Point Station – Exit A
Tram/Bus: King’s Road, North Point Station stops

 

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