Momen osaka (もめん) Osaka

I finally had the opportunity to visit the renowned Japanese restaurant "Momen" in Osaka's Shinsaibashi, a place that needs no introduction.On this day, I was fortunate enough to be invited to a special seat reserved for regular customers. Given how rare it is to visit such a famous establishment, I am sincerely grateful for the invitation. Thank you very much."Momen" has been loved by food enthusiasts and regular patrons for many years as a representative of Japanese cuisine in Osaka.Upon entering the restaurant, there is a warm atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.The dishes here do not boast flamboyance. However, as you savor each item, you can feel the care and attention to detail that highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients.One dish that particularly stood out was the sesame tofu.It is precisely in such seemingly simple dishes that the chef's skill and meticulousness are most evident. When you taste it, the deep flavors unfold gradually, leaving a lasting impression.Overall, the experience felt different from the typical "high-end Japanese cuisine" that one might expect; it was nostalgic and memorable.You could say it resembles the pinnacle of home-cooked meals, reminiscent of the former "Kyo-mi."Rather than overly embellishing the ingredients, the focus is on drawing out the inherent deliciousness of the dishes.As I continued to eat, I found myself thinking, "This might be the most luxurious kind of meal."To conclude the meal, we were served white rice, miso soup, and pickles.This was delightful.After enjoying several extravagant dishes, finishing with plain white rice, miso soup, and pickles was a refreshing touch.By the way, I heard that they use a rice cooker instead of a clay pot for the rice...Whether that's true or not, it might just be part of what makes "Momen" unique.Above all, what left a lasting impression was the personality of the head chef.At 79 years old, he is remarkably energetic and entertains guests with his humor.It felt as though the restaurant was complete not just with the food, but also with the conversations with the chef and the atmosphere within the establishment.There is a warmth and humanity typical of Osaka, and despite it being my first visit, I felt a sense of wanting to return.This is something that cannot be created solely by the deliciousness of the food.Visiting in person made it clear why this place has been cherished by regulars for so long. They do not chase trends but instead maintain the skills and flavors they have cultivated over the years.Moreover, the closeness to customers allows both the chef and diners to enjoy the same moment together.I was reminded once again of the charm of a Japanese restaurant.Thank you very much for inviting me to this special seat.I would love to return to this wonderful place the next time I visit Osaka.It was a great meal! Less

I visited "Momen," located about a 5-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station.The owner, Seiji Kiyoshi, offers a selection of simple Japanese dishes that are free from unnecessary embellishments. This renowned restaurant, which has garnered enthusiastic support from food enthusiasts nationwide for many years, operates on a reservation-only basis, making new bookings quite challenging.♦︎ A warm atmosphere that feels like returning home ── The interior consists of just nine counter seats, creating a very homey and calming space.The owner’s lively and gentle conversation belies his age, brightening the restaurant's atmosphere even more. The warm hospitality makes for a comfortable experience, allowing guests to relax without any tension.♦︎ The menu we enjoyed ── 【Hair Crab】 【Edamame Tofu】 【Jade Eggplant Soup】 【Sashimi of Squid and Pike Conger】 【Somen Noodles】 【Sweetfish】 【Main Dish】 【Dessert】 ♦︎ The essence of simplicity and overall impressions ── The dishes embody the aesthetic of subtraction, conveying the true potential of the ingredients in a straightforward manner.The flavors are comforting and gentle, yet the precision of the dashi and cooking techniques is truly artisan. The entire flow leading up to the final rice dish is perfect, leaving both the stomach and heart fully satisfied.This is a unique and exceptional kaiseki restaurant that Osaka can proudly present to the world, where you can experience exquisite cuisine and the wonderful personality of the owner. Even after enjoying about three servings of Japanese sake, the total was in the JPY 20,000 range.I definitely want to visit again.Thank you for reading to the end, from the reviewer "Instagram@_1show." I appreciate all your likes, follows, and saves for the restaurant. Less

On this night, I visited Momen.I enjoyed some sake, specifically Reizen. The menu included...1st dish: Steamed Abalone with White Yam Stems2nd dish: Fried Young Sweetfish3rd dish: Soup with Sea Bream Noodle and Sesame Tofu4th dish: Seared Bonito and Swordtip Squid5th dish: Tender Octopus with Small Potatoes6th dish: Simmered Akou (Red Sea Bream)7th dish:- White Rice- Dashi-Maki Tamago (Japanese Omelette)- Butterbur Miso Soup- Pickles8th dish: MangoThat was it...zzz... It was a great meal.The total was JPY 26,000, tax included.Purring away... ( =^・^= )...Purring and purring...zzz... Less