Osaka is often called the kitchen of Japan, and nowhere is this more evident than in its proud, deeply rooted noodle culture. In the Kansai (関西) region, where Osaka (大阪) sits, udon (うどん) is more than just a comfort food—it’s a tradition, a craft, and a point of regional pride. During my recent trip, I had the pleasure of experiencing one of Osaka’s most celebrated udon institutions: Dotonbori Imai Main Store (道頓堀 今井 本店). Founded in 1946, Imai is not just another noodle shop—it is often lovingly referred to as “the broth of Imai (出汁の今井),” a testament to its legendary dashi (だし) broth that has captivated generations.
A Haven of Tradition Amidst Dotonbori’s Frenzy
Walking through Dotonbori (道頓堀) is an experience in sensory overload: neon lights flashing, the aroma of grilled meats and fried snacks filling the air, and the ceaseless chatter of tourists and locals alike. Amid this vibrant chaos, stepping into Imai felt like crossing into a different world—a serene, elegant pocket of tradition.
The entrance, framed by traditional woodwork and a simple noren (のれん) curtain, immediately signaled that this was a place where history and hospitality mattered. Inside, the atmosphere was calm and understated. Soft lighting, polished wooden tables, and the gentle hum of quiet conversation created a space where time seemed to slow down.
The Deep Cultural Pride of Kansai Udon
In Kansai, udon is serious business. Unlike the firmer, saltier noodles of Kanto (関東) to the east, Kansai-style udon emphasizes a gentler broth, delicate flavors, and noodles that are soft yet resilient. Here, broth isn’t just a background note—it is the heart of the dish.
At Imai, this philosophy is elevated to an art form. The dashi (だし) broth is painstakingly made from kombu (kelp) sourced from Hokkaido and katsuobushi (bonito flakes), resulting in a clear, golden liquid that is light yet profoundly umami-rich. Locals say that if you truly want to understand Kansai cuisine, you must start with Imai’s broth—and after my first taste, I understood why.
Ordering the Signature Kitsune Udon (きつねうどん / Kitsune Udon)
The menu at Dotonbori Imai is straightforward but full of beloved classics. After consulting with the server, I decided to order their signature Kitsune Udon (きつねうどん / Kitsune Udon), a dish that perfectly showcases the restaurant’s dedication to balance and flavor.
When the bowl arrived, it was a work of quiet beauty: silky white noodles submerged in the crystal-clear broth, topped with a golden-brown slab of aburaage (油揚げ, fried tofu). The scent alone was enough to make me pause—savory, sweet, and gently smoky.
The first sip of broth was transformative. Unlike heavy, salt-laden soups, Imai’s dashi was light, almost airy, but layered with complexity. It was the kind of flavor that lingered delicately on the palate, inviting sip after sip. The noodles were smooth, slightly chewy, and absorbed just enough of the broth without losing their own character. The aburaage, sweet and tender, soaked up the broth like a sponge, releasing bursts of flavor with every bite.
It was simple. It was profound. It was everything good food should be.
An Audience of Loyal Patrons
As I ate, I couldn’t help but notice the clientele around me. Unlike many trendy restaurants filled with young crowds snapping photos, Imai’s patrons were mostly elderly locals, quietly savoring their meals. Some ate alone with the steady comfort of ritual; others dined with family, sharing gentle conversation over bowls of steaming noodles.
There was something deeply touching about it—this was clearly a place of habits, memories, and unwavering loyalty. Many had probably been coming here for decades, drawn not by novelty but by the consistent excellence and the warmth of familiarity. In a rapidly changing world, Dotonbori Imai remains a rare anchor of continuity.
More Than Just Udon: Other Classics to Try
While Kitsune Udon (きつねうどん) is the star, Dotonbori Imai offers other dishes worth savoring:
- Nabeyaki Udon (なべやきうどん / Hot Pot Udon): A rich, hearty dish served bubbling hot with tempura shrimp, chicken, and vegetables.
- Oyakodon (親子丼 / Chicken and Egg Rice Bowl): Tender chicken and egg simmered together and served over rice, accompanied by a small bowl of broth.
- Yose Nabe (寄せ鍋うどん / Mixed Hot Pot Udon): A luxurious feast featuring seafood, meat, and vegetables simmered together—a popular choice in colder months.
Each dish highlights the same commitment to clean, precise flavors that define Kansai cuisine. And in typical Japanese fashion, presentation matters: the dishes arrived beautifully plated, with each ingredient thoughtfully arranged.
A Living Piece of Osaka’s Culinary Heritage
Dining at Dotonbori Imai isn’t just about eating; it’s about participating in a living tradition. Since 1946, the restaurant has stayed true to its founding principles, even as Dotonbori around it has evolved into a tourist hotspot. Imai’s refusal to compromise—to chase trends or modernize for the sake of novelty—is what makes it special.
In many ways, it embodies the spirit of Osaka itself: practical yet proud, unpretentious yet deeply soulful. For travelers seeking a genuine taste of Kansai’s food culture, a visit to Imai is as essential as visiting Osaka Castle or strolling along the riverfront.
Menu, Prices, and Practical Information
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan traveler, Dotonbori Imai offers a comforting, authentic experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Menu Highlights and Prices (JPY, as of 2025):
- きつねうどん (Kitsune Udon): 930 yen
- なべやきうどん (Nabeyaki Udon): 1,850 yen
- 親子丼 (Oyakodon with broth): 1,500 yen
- 寄せ鍋うどん (Yose Nabe Udon, per person): 5,500 yen
Restaurant Information:
- Name: 道頓堀 今井 本店 (Dotonbori Imai Main Store)
- Address: 1-7-22 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan
- Phone: +81-6-6211-0319
- Website: www.d-imai.com
- Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. (Last order 9:00 p.m.)
- Closed: Wednesdays (except on holidays) and the fourth Tuesday of each month (except December)
- Seats: 138
- Payment Methods: Cash, credit cards, electronic payments available
- Takeout: Available for selected items
If you’re seeking not just a meal, but a taste of timeless Kansai craftsmanship, Dotonbori Imai Main Store (道頓堀 今井 本店) is a stop you absolutely must make. In every sip of broth, every slurp of noodle, you’ll find a love for tradition that speaks louder than any neon sign.