Chinese Sai Hinotori (中国菜 火ノ鳥) Osaka

I had the pleasure of visiting this restaurant after connecting through social media.The counter seats offer a live-style dining experience.With spacious chairs, it’s a comfortable space to enjoy the food and engage in conversation.The menu features drinks only.The dining style is a monthly course.You get to savor a variety of delicious dishes, served in small portions.■ Appetizers - Chilled Noodles with Summer Vegetables Cucumber, myoga ginger, and kombu kelp coated in a sticky texture. The noodles bounce with a mild acidity.- Eight Cold Dishes A selection of cold dishes centered around seafood. Featuring turban shell, squid, herring, sweet shrimp, conger eel, and sea bream. Each dish is beautifully flavored with a light simmer, rich oil, bold sauce, and a hint of spiciness. All eight dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine, are delicious.■ Dim Sum - Curry Rice Shumai Inside the shumai, there’s fluffy rice with a spicy kick. It pairs well with the chili oil on the table.- Chilled Wontons with Shrimp and Pork The wontons are plump and chewy, filled with savory pork and shrimp. The sauce made with aosa seaweed and tororo has a flavor reminiscent of Matsumae-zuke.■ Soup - Boiled Dumplings with Grilled Conger Eel A broth layered with the aroma of grilled conger eel bones, enhanced by the finest dashi. With the addition of matsutake mushrooms, it offers a rich fragrance and deep umami.■ Main Dishes - Spicy Miso Stir-fried Eel The spicy sauce has a perfect hint of sweetness.- Air-dried Shamo Chicken Enjoy three parts: thigh, breast, and wing, served with green onions, jalapeños, homemade mayonnaise, and plum sauce.The marinated meat has a concentrated, sticky texture. The skin is crispy and fragrant, adding layers of rich flavor.You can mix and match the sauces freely. Green onions and jalapeños go well with the thigh, homemade mayonnaise with the breast, and plum sauce with the wing.- Stir-fried Wagyu Cheek with Chili Peppers The slight bitterness and spiciness of Manji chili, red chili, and shishito peppers, along with their umami. The sweet and spicy sauce has a subtle acidity. The cheek meat is incredibly tender, bursting with beef flavor amidst the thick sauce.It reminds me of a refined version of 青椒肉絲 (stir-fried beef with bell peppers).■ Main Course - Sesame Soy Milk Dandan Noodles with Yodare Chicken A dish that replaces the minced meat in chilled dandan noodles with yodare chicken. The sesame soy milk broth’s umami combines with the garlic chili oil from the yodare chicken.It has a punchy flavor with a hint of sweetness. The lingering richness of sesame after finishing the soup is delightful.- Rice Bowl with Fried Duck Nanban A rice bowl topped with fried duck nanban, drizzled with century egg tartar sauce. The tartar sauce is sharp and surprisingly refreshing.■ Desserts - Vanilla-flavored Almond Tofu - Homemade Beijing-style Yogurt The yogurt is particularly impressive.It’s dense and creamy, served in a small jar, and pairs well with dried fruits.To finish, I enjoyed a cup of “Da Hong Pao.”Each dish is a unique experience, and I look forward to discovering what new dishes await on my next visit. Less

This was my first visit to the renowned Chinese restaurant "Hinotori" in Osaka, and it was fantastic. The cold appetizers at the beginning had a subtle flavor but were well-seasoned and delicious. Then, the dishes took a dramatic turn with the introduction of curry flavors, and the soup featured Chinese matsutake mushrooms. They used a lot of chili peppers, but it wasn't overly spicy; the umami was excellent! The yogurt dessert at the end was incredibly tasty as well. This place is definitely a reason to visit Osaka. It was a great meal! Less

This is my favorite Chinese restaurant that I visit regularly! I love how the chef creates original dishes that go beyond traditional Chinese cuisine. Every dish is wonderful and delicious! Despite being a popular spot, the drinks are surprisingly affordable! Maybe it's because the chef loves alcohol and offers them at a lower price? Even though it's Chinese food, I never feel overwhelmed by the portions; they are just right! I never feel tired after finishing my meal! I truly love this place! You’ll understand its charm once you visit! Less

Rather than simply using high-end ingredients to create a lavish appearance,this restaurant brings out the best in the ingredients through cooking techniques,aromas, textures, and the layering of seasonings.Instead of the typical boldness associated with Chinese cuisine,there are layers of fragrance and umami in each dish,making every bite increasingly intriguing.The use of oil is light, allowing for a pleasant dining experience throughout the course.What stood out to me was how it is based on classic Chinese dishes,yet feels completely fresh and modern.It’s not about trying to be quirky or avant-garde,but rather it made me appreciate once again how fascinating Chinese cuisine can be.Simply outstanding. Less

I finally had the chance to visit the highly sought-after restaurant "Hinotori" that I've wanted to go to for so long. I took a seat at the counter and started with a toast over a beer. The vibrant energy of the kitchen unfolding right in front of me, along with the staff's seamless teamwork, was truly impressive. Watching each dish being meticulously prepared within such a refined team dynamic heightened my anticipation even before the meal began.Starting with a colorful array of appetizers, we enjoyed hot dishes with exquisite cooking and deep flavors, juicy dim sum, and crispy fried items, all the way to the tender meat in the finishing rice dish—every dish exceeded my expectations. The overall flow and structure of the course were remarkable, leaving no room for error, right up to the delicate dessert at the end.The exquisite dishes born from their wonderful teamwork, combined with a pleasant atmosphere, made it clear why reservations are so hard to come by. It was a blissful Chinese dining experience. I look forward to the opportunity to visit again. Thank you for the wonderful meal! Less

I visited for the first time due to a cancellation! The Chinese cuisine crafted by Chef Inoue and his staff is incredibly delicious.【What I had】Assorted AppetizersGrilled Shumai with Manjanji Peppers and JalapeñosEgg and Eel Steamed BunsShrimp and Hairy Crab BunsSmoked Omi Duck and Grilled Eggplant SoupAbalone Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)Young Ginger and Skinless Hyakkai ChickenBraised Skinless Hyakkai ChickenPork Bone RamenWagyu Cheek Rice BowlAlmond TofuVanilla Caramel and Shaoxing WineNot only was the food delicious, but Chef Inoue's warm personality and high level of hospitality made the experience even better. I believe the prices are quite reasonable as well.It was a great meal! Less

8 Dishes- Bacon, Chicken Neck, Sichuan-style Oden- Miso Stewed Isotsubugai (Sea Snail)- Chicken Wings Marinated in Shaoxing Wine Lees- Squid- Whale Bacon with Asparagus- Sea Bream with Young Ginger- Yamakina Chili with Dried Baby Sardines- Spiced Fried Dish(Tianjin)- Shumai (Pork and Manjyu Pepper)- Steamed Bun (with Shrimp and Hairy Crab)- Grilled Bun (with Eel and Egg)- Omi Duck and Grilled Eggplant Soup- Chawanmushi with Abalone (Raw and Steamed Abalone)- Leaf Ginger (Fried with Leaf Ginger and Pork)- Braised Hyakkadori Chicken (Chicken, Pork, and Shrimp stuffed and braised)- Tonkotsu Ramen- Rice with Beef CheekAdditional- Shark Fin Rice Less

I was able to make a reservation for the first time in years, and it was truly moving. The creative Chinese dishes came out one by one, making it an enjoyable experience. I was a bit nervous before entering, but the atmosphere was much more casual than I expected.One downside was that since my reservation was at 8 PM, the kitchen started cleaning up just as I was finishing my meal, spraying detergent on the walls. I could see the cooking utensils being cleaned right in front of me. I wonder if they realize how that feels for the customers. I understand they want to wrap up quickly, but it was a bit disappointing. The way the drinks were placed also didn’t feel very pleasant.Despite that, the food was delicious.I enjoyed the meal overall. It was a great meal! Less

I visited Hinotori, a Chinese restaurant in Kitahama.Recently, they opened a brief reservation slot, and it seemed quite hectic. When I inquired, they mentioned they didn’t expect such a strong response.Well, of course! (laughs) Many popular restaurants only contact those who successfully book new slots, but it’s impressive that they try to respond to everyone who reaches out during this period.The meal started with 8 appetizers. There were some new dishes that paired perfectly with the drinks.As always, the following dishes were exceptional, but the one made with lobster and egg whites was outstanding. I love this restaurant and often think it’s impossible for them to surpass their previous offerings, but this time, the lobster made me realize just how delicious it could be.They also have playful menu items like a Chinese-style cheeseburger and UFO-style yakisoba, all of which were delicious.For two people, we spent around JPY 50,000. It’s a blessing to find a place that makes you feel like you’re getting great value for your money.I hope to keep coming back to this wonderful restaurant. Less

This is a highly popular Chinese restaurant in Osaka, known as one of the best in the city. Owner-chef Kiyohiko Inoue delves into classical texts of Beijing and Cantonese cuisine, utilizing his unique creativity to elevate traditional Chinese dishes into something truly exceptional. One of the joys of dining here is enjoying the food served on exquisite tableware and tea sets that the chef has collected over the years!Let’s see what tonight’s dishes have in store!Cheers with a bottle of Sapporo Lager Aka boshi!■ Assorted Appetizers- Sichuan-style Oden (chicken neck, pork cheek, and bacon)- Simmered Iso-tubeworm with miso- Sichuan-style eggplant with sauce- Cold Mapo Tofu with chicken soft roe- Sweet shrimp wrapped in cloth tofu- Mixed salad of okahijiki and seaweed- Shark fin and fuuka jelly- Steamed Shamo chickenEach dish showcases the chef's creativity and skill!In particular, the unique Sichuan-style oden packed with rich meat flavors, the creamy and rich Mapo Tofu made with rare ingredients, the sweet shrimp wrapped in cloth tofu with its rich miso, and the shark fin jelly infused with Japanese flavors were all exceptional dishes!◆ Louis Roederer Collection (France/Champagne)With its beautiful golden hue and crisp bubbles, this champagne offers a fresh and smooth mouthfeel, and its fruity flavor pairs perfectly with any dish!■ Three Types of Dim SumEach dim sum is served individually!- Shumai with black pork and beansJuicy black pork and three types of beans (fava beans, edamame, and snap peas) topped with dried scallops and snap pea skins make this a standout dish!I enjoyed it generously drizzled with the chef's exquisite homemade chili oil!This homemade chili oil is exceptional, with the aroma of garlic and ginger, the numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns, the mild spiciness of chili, and the umami of dried shrimp all perfectly balanced—this chili oil goes well with any dish!- Chinese-style CheeseburgerThe buns are made from Chinese steamed bread, filled with a chicken patty and cheese!The sweet and salty sauce, along with the savory meat and rich cheese, is gently enveloped by the fluffy Chinese steamed bread!- Cold WontonsFilled with shrimp, white fish, and perilla, served in a broth of shrimp and ginger!The contrast between the plump shrimp and fish and the smooth texture of the wontons, combined with the refreshing perilla flavor, makes this cold wonton perfect for the hot season!◆ Shaoxing Wine Decanter x2Enjoyed in our preferred style; I had mine as a Dragon Highball mixed with soda!■ Today's SoupTaiwanese fried egg tofu and fried whiting, with a broth made from bonito and dried sardines, topped with asparagus wild vegetables that resemble tsukushi!The gentle and elegant dashi, combined with the hot egg tofu and fried white fish, along with the slightly bitter yet healthy asparagus wild vegetables, creates a beautifully balanced dish!■ Steamed Lobster with Egg WhitesWith a rich aroma of ocean minerals and a stunning presentation, this dish is guaranteed to be delicious!Chunks of lobster are nestled in fluffy and creamy egg whites, soaked in a sauce rich with lobster flavor—this is truly a divine dish!■ Abalone and Fermented Vegetables StewThe combination of abalone with a hint of ocean aroma and fermented vegetables like napa cabbage and cabbage creates layers of umami, resulting in a deeply flavorful dish unlike anything I've ever tasted!This gentle and refined flavor is simply exquisite!■ Chinese Bone-In SausageThis dish arrives with a presentation that defies expectations for Chinese cuisine!Using the shoulder roll and bacon from the Iwate brand "Hakkinton," wrapped around pork ribs and grilled, seasoned with "Tianmianjiang" (Beijing-style sweet bean sauce) used in Peking duck!This is not meant to be eaten with a fork and knife; it’s meant to be bitten into!With a crispy char, the juicy fat from the Hakkinton oozes out, balancing the sweetness of the shoulder roll with the saltiness of the bacon, all enveloped in the rich sweetness of the Tianmianjiang!■ U.F.O.-style YakisobaA classic delicious yakisoba!You can change the flavor with homemade spicy mayonnaise!Is it U.F.O. or Ippei-chan? There’s room for debate, but by the way, both are not local to Osaka but are known nationwide (laughs).■ Akashi Octopus and Manganji Pepper ChumakiA perfect finishing dish!The combination of Akashi octopus and Manganji pepper brings together the firm umami of the octopus and the crisp bitterness and sweetness of the pepper, with the mochi rice soaked in dashi, creating a delightful texture and a touch of Japanese flavor!I enjoyed it deliciously with a floral aroma and refreshing white tea!◆ BaijiuA complimentary service from the chef!In China, Baijiu is popular as a food pairing drink, alongside Shaoxing wine!Baijiu is a distilled liquor made from sorghum and corn, with an alcohol content ranging from 30 to 60 degrees, and some varieties even reach 70 degrees.From my bitter experiences on over ten business trips to China, this drink is filled with memories of toasts and chugging at welcome parties and events (laughs).This "Fenjiu" has a strong fruity aroma, is refined without any strong aftertaste, and is relatively easy to drink!Naturally, we all took a shot together with the chef!■ DessertVanilla-flavored almond tofu and Shaoxing wine-flavored caramel ice cream!This almond tofu has a gentle almond flavor, with a hint of vanilla that comes through later, creating a creamy and milky taste. The Shaoxing wine-flavored caramel ice cream has a pleasant bitterness and sweetness, with the Shaoxing wine tightening the aftertaste, making it a sophisticated dessert!This is an incredibly delicious Chinese dessert!By incorporating modern culinary techniques into traditional Chinese court cuisine, Chef Inoue's creativity has truly created a timeless and moving experience in Chinese cuisine!It was a great meal! Less

Currently on a business trip in Kyoto!Ranked 11th in the Osaka Tabelog genre and 15th in the national Tabelog for Chinese cuisine.I visited the legendary Chinese restaurant Hinotori in Kitahama, known for being impossible to reserve!A friend who is a regular at several renowned restaurants in Kansai invited me here!!!We enjoyed:- Chicken Neck- Pork Cheek- Whelk- Chicken Soft Roe Mapo Tofu- Sweet Shrimp- Tofu- Shamo Chicken- Shark Fin- Pork Intestine- Mapo EggplantAll were exquisite!- Chilled Wontons- Chinese-style Cheeseburger- Black Pig ShumaiBoth were outstanding!- Lobster with Egg Whites- Absolutely amazing!- Hakkinton Chuck Eye Roll- Exquisite!- Abalone with Fermented Vegetables, Pickled Mustard Greens, and Cabbage- Super delicious!- UFO-style Yakisoba- Incredible!- Akashi Octopus with Manganji Pepper Rice- Exquisite!- Taiwanese-style Fried Egg Tofu- Outstanding!- Almond Tofu- Exquisite!- Shaoxing Wine Caramel Ice Cream- Absolutely delicious!While small plates of Chinese cuisine are trending in Tokyo, this place might just be the original!The portion sizes are quite small, which is perfect for someone like me who wants to try a variety of dishes!!!Moreover, each dish is a lighter take on Chinese cuisine, which I believe aligns with the recent trend of high-end Chinese dining!I was thrilled by the way rare ingredients were presented so effortlessly!!I was truly impressed by Chef Inoue's creativity throughout the meal!Ranked 16th out of 30 in the Osaka Tabelog genre and 16th out of 30 in the national Tabelog for Chinese cuisine.I had a wonderful visit!!! Less

Hinotori は、素材の良さを活かした上品な中華料理と洗練された空間が魅力のお店です。定番の中華とは一線を画し、繊細な味付けと美しい盛り付けで、一皿ごとに料理人のこだわりを感じました。コース全体の構成も素晴らしく、前菜から締めまで飽きることなく楽しめます。特に食材の火入れが絶妙で、それぞれの旨味が最大限に引き出されている印象でした。店内は落ち着いた雰囲気で、会食や接待、記念日利用にも最適。サービスも丁寧で心地よく、ゆっくりと食事と会話を楽しめる大人のお店です。北浜エリアでワンランク上の中華を探している方におすすめ。また伺いたいと思います。 Less

It had been a long time since my last visit.I was seated at a table for six in the back.Chinese Sai Hinotori offers a wide variety of teas, which we all shared. I especially recommend the lychee tea.We started with an assorted platter of appetizers.The serving tray is now square instead of round! It included oden, jelly-like stew, soft roe mapo, sweet shrimp, eggplant, clams, and more (I forgot to ask about some items, haha).Next, we had a trio of dim sum: quail flower zucchini, shrimp spring rolls, and a beef-filled option (which made us laugh).Then came the rice vermicelli.We also enjoyed fish and eggplant.There were shrimp dumplings in a lotus leaf with sauce.Stir-fried beef with Manji peppers.Chilled noodles with clams.Rice cooked with golden pheasant and white asparagus.For dessert, we had vanilla almond tofu and mango pudding.It was a delightful experience of classic Chinese cuisine.Everything was delicious and comforting.Thank you for the precious seating.I want to come back again! Less

I visited "Chinese Sai Hinotori" with a friend. This popular restaurant offers authentic Chinese cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Each dish features classic flavors with unique twists, allowing you to fully appreciate the aromas and tastes. The cooking technique is particularly impressive, highlighting the textures of the ingredients in each plate. The overall balance of the course was excellent, keeping us engaged until the very end. Despite its upscale ambiance, the restaurant feels comfortable, making it a great choice for anniversaries or special meals. Less