Taste Kansai’s Comfort Food! Hidden Nara Izakaya with Takoyaki & Adorable Shop Dogs

Craving Kansai comfort food? Tucked away in Nara, just next to Osaka, there’s a hidden izakaya where you can enjoy four of the region’s most iconic flour-based dishes—takoyaki, okonomiyaki, yakisoba, and ikayaki—all in one place. Known as konamon, these Kansai staples are local comfort food at its best. At Konamon Izakaya TEッPAN Shachu, you’ll be welcomed by the friendly owner and two cheerful shop dogs as soon as you step inside. The warm, homey vibe is part of what makes this spot so special. The top pick? Takoyaki, made with care and served in a variety of flavors—like dashi-based soy sauce or a combo of rock salt and sesame oil. You’ll want to try more than one. There’s also gluten-free okonomiyaki made with rice flour, plus plenty of teppan-grilled favorites that pair perfectly with local Nara sake. Just a 5-minute walk from Tsutsui Station, this hidden gem offers a taste of real Kansai flavor—and a little dog love along the way. Be sure to stop by on your next trip to Nara.

Must-Try: Takoyaki, Their Signature Dish
Short on Time? Go for Ikayaki
Gluten-Free Goodness: Rice Flour Okonomiyaki
Say Hello to the Shop Dogs!

Must-Try: Takoyaki, Their Signature Dish

Takoyaki is the star here! Choose from six sauces and fun toppings like cheese and green onions. The most popular? A dashi-based soy sauce, made with a local Nara specialty. Rock salt with sesame oil is another winner, bringing out the full flavor of the batter. With so many combos, you’ll want to try them all.

Short on Time? Go for Ikayaki

Need something quick? Grab an ikayaki! This Osaka classic is made by pressing squid and egg into a thin flour-based pancake. It’s chewy, savory, and loved by all ages. You can even add cheese, kimchi, or green onions for a twist.

Gluten-Free Goodness: Rice Flour Okonomiyaki

Gluten-free? Try their okonomiyaki made with rice flour! Crispy outside, fluffy inside—it’s a fresh take on a classic. Topped with rice-flour tempura flakes fried in rice oil and homemade mayo, it’s both hearty and satisfying. Note: not fully allergy-safe.

Say Hello to the Shop Dogs!

One of the best parts? The dogs! Meet Pan the husky and Chako the Jack Russell, who love greeting guests at the door. A good meal and some dog love? Yes, please. Just remember—don’t feed the dogs, and follow the house rules!