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First-hand meals, neighborhood walks and everyday Japanese chains — newest stories first.

A large Mega Kinmugi mug on the left, beside another drink at Torikizoku

Noda-Hanshin

Japanese Chains You Don’t Know — No. 1: Torikizoku

Big skewers, a Mega Kinmugi, and everything at ¥410. Hiro’s first Japanese Chains column features his No. 1 order—fries with butter sauce—and frozen Catalana that melts into rich custard on…

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Curry and rice on an Indian Curry plate at the Hanshin branch

Umeda

Where to eat in Umeda: curry, ramen & a classic juice stop

A curry lunch, a classic station juice stand, and a rich bowl of ramen. Here are three places I’ve visited around Umeda, with a guide to finding each one.

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Mentaiko and cheese monjayaki cooking on the griddle

Tenma

An evening in Tenma: monjayaki, a few drinks & one last bowl

A hot griddle at Tamatoya, mentaiko and cheese monjayaki, and a bowl of ramen to finish. Two stops from one real night out.

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