This iconic purveyor of the classic Japanese comfort food of omurice, or rice wrapped in omelette, celebrated its centennial in 2022 and operates some 15 branches across the Kansai region. Founded as an upscale restaurant dedicated to yoshoku, the Meiji-era Japanese interpretation of ‘Western’ food, Hokkyokusei is considered the birthplace of omurice, a dish reputedly coined here in response to a regular’s request and now the eatery’s sole focus.
Housed in a traditional building that was once a tea house, Hokkyokusei’s main restaurant in Nishi-Shinsaibashi serves its Western-inspired fare in certifiably Japanese surroundings. Guests sit on tatami mats around low tables, most of which offer a view of the small Japanese garden in the centre of the building.
The menu lists around 15 varieties, but first-time visitors will want to go for the orthodox chicken omurice: pan-fried chicken and rice flavoured with soy sauce, sake and a dollop of ketchup, wrapped in a fluffy two-egg omelette splashed with the restaurant’s signature tomato sauce. The perfectly smooth omelette comes with a palate-cleansing side of ginger slices pickled in sweetened vinegar. There’s also a small selection of other side dishes, with the karaage fried chicken a particular highlight.