To understand the differences between Tokyo and Osaka, you don’t have to survey the cityscapes or hang out with locals in both East and West (although we heartily recommend doing both). All you need to do is sit down for a meal at a restaurant.
In general, Tokyo cuisine is richer, bolder and saltier, whereas Osaka food is milder and sweeter. You’ll find more seafood dishes in Tokyo but a wider variety of vegetables in Kyoto. Whether it’s okonomiyaki vs monjayaki or triangular vs round onigiri, the inter-city rivalry is very pronounced in the kitchen.
But which city is Japan’s true food capital? Our ultimate East-against-West battle for culinary supremacy sees Osaka and Tokyo go head to head in such crucial categories as curry and traditional sweets. We’ll leave you to decide the winner.
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AloJapan.com