When a city¡¯s being is inextricably linked to the maxim, ¡°To eat oneself into ruin¡± (kuidaore), it¡¯s a foregone conclusion that the city is serious about its food. Such is the case of Osaka, Japan¡¯s second-largest city and gateway to the Kansai region.

Osaka's soft water is said to effectively extract the umami flavor from ingredients. | GETTY IMAGES
Osaka¡¯s soft water is said to effectively extract the umami flavor from ingredients. | GETTY IMAGES

Historical factors