Okonomiyaki Across Japan: Discover the Delicious Regional Differences💡

When people think of okonomiyaki, they often imagine just one dish.

But in Japan, that's not quite true!

Depending on where you travel, you'll find surprisingly different versions of this much-loved savoury pancake.

As someone from the Kansai region, I have to admit I'm a little biased—I will always choose Osaka-style okonomiyaki!

When I lived in Japan, I probably ate it at least once a month. 😂

It's one of those comforting meals that reminds me of home.

Of course, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the other regional styles too!🧡

What is okonomiyaki?

The name okonomiyaki (お好み焼き) means "grilled as you like".

You can choose your favourite ingredients, such as cabbage, pork, seafood, cheese, or even mochi, making every pancake a little different.

Different regions, Different flavours😋

The best-known styles come from Osaka and Hiroshima.

Osaka style mixes all the ingredients together before cooking.

The result is soft, fluffy, and full of flavour.

It's the style I grew up eating, so it will always be my favourite.

Hiroshima style takes a completely different approach.

Instead of mixing everything together, the ingredients are stacked in layers.

It also usually includes noodles, creating a unique texture that many people love.

Japan has many other local versions too, and each has its own story.

In Hyogo Prefecture, especially around Himeji and Takasago, you'll find Nikuten.

Unlike Osaka-style okonomiyaki, it often includes seasoned potatoes, beef tendon, konjac, and cabbage.

In Tokyo, the famous Monjayaki looks quite different.

The batter is much runnier, so instead of cutting it into slices, people cook it on a hot plate and eat it directly with small metal spatulas.

It may not look like a pancake at first, but it's a favourite comfort food for many Tokyo locals.

More than just a meal

In Kansai, okonomiyaki is more than restaurant food. 🍽️

Many families make it together at home, each person choosing their own favourite toppings.

Traditional toppings include pork belly, shrimp, or squid, but many people also enjoy adding cheese, , kimchi, corn, or even extra green onions.

My favourite toppings are mochi (rice cake), potatoes, tuna, and mentaiko (spicy cod roe)!

Every family has its own favourite combination, so there isn't a single "right" way to make okonomiyaki.

One of the things I love most about okonomiyaki is that it's different every time.

You can be as creative as you like—and that's exactly what the name okonomiyaki, meaning "grilled as you like", is all about.

Just as Singapore is famous for its diverse food culture, Japan also celebrates regional flavours.

So, if you ever visit Japan, don't stop after trying just one okonomiyaki.

Taste a few different styles—you might even discover a favourite that's different from mine!👍

Manae