2026 February 1st
A Hidden Oasis in Kyobashi: My Unforgettable Night at Sushi Takumi
If you find yourself in the vibrant Kyobashi area of Osaka, surrounded by neon lights and busy clubs, keep an eye out for a wooden wall that seems to hide a secret. Tucked away in the basement (B2F) of the Sun Piazza Building, Sushi Takumi (鮨 匠) is a peaceful sanctuary that feels worlds away from the bustling streets above.
The Entrance & Vibe
Finding the entrance is like a mini-adventure. The sleek, vertical wood-paneled wall and the small, framed calligraphy sign for “匠” (Takumi) mark the spot. Once you head downstairs, you’re greeted by an intimate 7-seat counter. On the night I visited, every seat was taken, creating a warm, cozy “good vibes” ambiance.
I was the only foreigner there, but that didn’t matter at all, the staff and the other guests were so welcoming that I ended up having a great time chatting with people I’d only just met!
The Introduction Video
Before the meal begins, they show a short, 2 minutes video. It introduces the two chefs and shares the story of their journey and the philosophy behind the restaurant. Even with my limited Japanese, it was a beautiful touch that made the experience feel personal and grounded.
The Menu: Omakase Plan (15 Items) お任せプラン15品
One of the best parts about Sushi Takumi is the price. I had the Omakase Plan for only 4,400 yen per person, which included 15 different items. It is an amazing way to try a variety of flavors.
Here is what was served during my visit:
- 前菜 Appetizer
- カツオのたたき Seared Bonito
- エビパン Shrimp Toast
- イカSquid
- 赤身（マグロ）Lean Tuna
- タラ白子の自家製すだち餡掛け Cod Milt with homemade Sudachi citrus sauce
- サワラの幽庵焼き Grilled Spanish Mackerel
- ヒラメ Flounder
- 落花生 Peanuts / Boiled Peanuts
- 親子握り “Parent & Child” Nigiri
- 季節の貝の握り Seasonal Shellfish Nigiri
- アジ Horse Mackerel
- 中トロ Medium Fatty Tuna
- ラーメン Seafood Dashi Ramen
- デザート（プリン） Dessert (Pudding)
While the menu usually features peanuts, I was served Sea Urchin (Uni) instead—and I am so glad I was! I normally “hate” sea urchin and usually won’t touch it, but this was a first for me: it was actually delicious. It was fresh, creamy, and totally changed my perspective. If you think you don’t like Uni, this is the place to try it!
The Food (and a Personal Breakthrough!)
The sushi was, in a word, delicious.
The Details: They were very thoughtful, asking if I wanted ginger and wasabi with each piece. A quick tip: Their ginger is excellent. It’s the perfect palate cleanser between pieces.
The Uni Surprise: I have a confession, I usually hate sea urchin (uni). I almost never eat it. But at Sushi Takumi, I decided to give theirs a try, and it was a revelation! It was creamy, fresh, and absolutely delicious. It was the first time I actually enjoyed uni, which says a lot about the quality they serve.
To top it all off, just when I thought I couldn’t eat another bite, they served a special Seafood Dashi Ramen. Most people don’t expect a bowl of noodles at a high-end sushi spot, but this was a highlight! The broth is made from the freshest seafood scraps, making it incredibly flavorful and comforting. It was the best possible way to end an amazing meal before heading back out into the bright lights of Kyobashi.
Sushi Takumi is more than just a meal; it’s a hidden experience that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for world-class sushi in Japan. For just 4,400 yen, I didn’t just get incredible food, I got a story. From the cinematic video introduction to the breakthrough moment where I finally enjoyed Uni for the first time in my life, every minute was special.
Even though it’s tucked away in a basement near the noisy club district and the entrance is a bit of a puzzle to find, the calm, friendly atmosphere inside makes it worth the hunt. Whether you are traveling solo like I was or with friends, you’ll leave feeling like a local. If you’re in Osaka, do yourself a favor and book one of those seven seats. You won’t regret it!