While okonomiyaki joints are dime a dozen in Shimokitazawa, none of the others get quite as busy as Hiroki. Although the savoury pancake dish is most often associated with Osaka, this restaurant makes it Hiroshima-style, with ingredients sourced from the southern city.
Unlike Osaka’s okonomiyaki, in which the batter and fillings are mixed together before cooking, the Hiroshima version is prepared by spreading out the batter on a hotplate, and then topping it with cabbage, pork, noodles, egg and other ingredients. Hiroki also offers noodle-free versions; however, first-timers in particular will want to go the whole hog, which is expertly prepared right in front of your eyes if you’re lucky enough to grab a counter seat. Seafood options are available for those averse to meat.