Osaka, Japan｜Oita-karaage Katsuo

Interesting to see foreigners complaining in the reviews about a tiny 270 yen seating fee. Is this their first time in an izakaya? This is お通し代, a seating fee which is also taken as payment for the appetiser (a bowl of edamame); this is standard practice in izakaya and can often be significantly more (up to 1000 yen per person in certain touristy areas in Tokyo, but 300-400 yen is a fairly common figure). Regardless, the Katsuo chain is always a good bet if you’re looking for somewhere to eat and drink the night away with cheap drinks and decent food. You order via a QR code. The recommendation is the various types of karaage, but there are other decent items on the menu too. Beer and highballs are exceptionally good value, especially if you get the stronger versions of the highballs. This particular katsuo might seem small and always look full, but it has 3 floors so try your luck and you’ll probably get a seat. We’re often the only foreigners in katsuo, so take that as a good sign and enjoy somewhere like this that isn’t as touristy as other places in the area. Downside for me is that smoking is allowed inside, but the ventilation is very good so it doesn’t become an issue, even if somebody is smoking near you.

The beer is cheap and I often use Katsuo, but it was my first time at the Shinsaibashi store, but I went there as soon as it opened, and the pink-haired brother was so kind to me that I wanted to come again! Stir-fried shrimp chili is the best! I will come again with my friends!

If it's a public pub, it's Katsuo! If you want to drink in a lively atmosphere, this is the place!