[April 2020] An emergency declaration was issued, but I had to go to Osaka for an important matter. On the day of arrival in Osaka, I went straight to the hotel without meeting anyone. I purchased takeout items from 551 Horai on the way and had it for dinner. After finishing my business, it was time to return to Tokyo today. This time, I will buy mackerel sushi and enjoy it on the Shinkansen. Even in times like this, my determination to eat delicious food never fades (^_^;) Sushi shops like Sushinao are originally takeout only, so they are not affected by the current situation. They also offer delivery in the neighborhood. I placed an order over the phone on the morning of the day and went to pick it up at the specified time. It takes about 2 hours because they need time to prepare. I arrived at the shop a little earlier than the specified time, but the mackerel sushi was already prepared (^_^) - Mackerel Sushi: 3,456 yen This shop's mackerel sushi is a double layer of skin-on and skin-off mackerel. Wasabi and seaweed are sandwiched between the rice and the topping. The vinegar flavor is strong even though the rice is not too sour. The mackerel is moist and retains its rare texture. The combination of wasabi and seaweed goes well with the mackerel's fatty taste. The surface covered with white kelp is also nice. Eating one whole piece is quite filling, but the taste is so good that I finished it without getting tired of it. It's just delicious. [In conclusion] There are many mackerel sushi shops in Kansai, but there are probably no other shops like this one that use a double layer of mackerel with wasabi and seaweed. It's interesting how each shop has its own original twist on this traditional food. And it's just delicious (^_^) It's amazing how a food made with consideration for preservation and hygiene can also have such great taste. Thank you for the meal.

Two weeks before retirement on March 22, I started working long hours from midday to late at night, busy with handovers and organizing remaining tasks. I even worked on Sundays. On my way home, I received a message from MyRebi saying, "Don't just go to Matsuya for dinner." I replied, "I also go to Sukiya and Osho." Feeling competitive, I stopped by a sushi restaurant called "Sushinao" specialized in takeout and delivery, just a 2-minute bike ride from Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. I bought a luxurious bento for dinner, costing 2800 yen, which used to be 2600 yen. The "box sushi" I purchased is a type of pressed sushi made with sushi rice, sea bream, shrimp, and conger eel on top, arranged in a wooden box. Back home, I enjoyed the exquisite sushi with hot tea and red miso soup. Each piece was carefully crafted and cost 252 yen per piece. The vinegar rice was delicious, and the combination of ingredients was unique. "Box sushi" requires meticulous preparation and is a traditional Osaka dish worth preserving. After savoring the sushi, I secretly indulged in a cup of pork bone-flavored cup ramen for a more satisfying meal. Today, it's not just beef bowl, it's high-class box sushi. Bon appétit!

2019: Revisiting in December♪ A long-established sushi restaurant that is extremely particular about serving only the best mackerel. If they can't find mackerel that meets their standards, they will cancel sales for the day. This time, I enjoyed their eel stick sushi as well. The rice, cooked in a large pot right when you enter the restaurant, is just delicious. Mackerel Matsusaka Sushi♪ The mackerel with rich fat and rice is amazing!(^^)! Even just one piece has a great volume and is truly impressive. Eel stick sushi♪ The gentle taste of the eel is delicious! This restaurant is really something special.

In January 2019, I decided to order sushi from a nearby restaurant called "Sushi Nao." I placed an order over the phone in advance, and it seemed like a system where you pick up the food at a specified time. They had various menu items like mackerel sushi, conger eel sushi, red snapper sushi, boxed sushi, and Osaka-style sushi. This time, I ordered the "boxed sushi" which cost 2916 yen. Boxed sushi always reminds me of when my father used to bring it back as a souvenir after drinking. It's great as a souvenir because it tastes delicious even when it's cold. I went to pick up the sushi at the specified time. The interior of the restaurant had a nostalgic atmosphere, and the owner's service was very polite. After paying at the entrance and receiving the food, he even saw me off outside the shop. I brought the boxed sushi home and enjoyed it immediately. The plump shrimp, conger eel, thick rolled omelette, sea bream with wood sorrel, and other ingredients were beautifully arranged, like a work of art. Each ingredient had a great texture and a refined taste. The sushi rice was also very delicious. By the way, the sushi rice here is cooked in the traditional way using a wood-burning stove. I really liked the boxed sushi, so I would like to try the mackerel sushi next time, as I am also very curious about it. Thank you for the delicious meal!

♪At that long-established and renowned place♪ (Sung by Takao Horiuchi) A reservation at a sushi restaurant known for its kiln-cooked rice and carefully selected ingredients, finally secured for a special occasion! ◎Mackerel Matsushima Sushi 3000 yen♪ Oh my goodness, this thickly fatty mackerel on top of the ultimate shari rice!(^^)! An outstanding dish that reflects the history of the restaurant! ◎Box Sushi 2600 yen♪ ◎Upper Roll Sushi 1200 yen♪ Both were incredibly delicious~ I had an amazing sushi feast at the end of the year~ (*^-^*)

Saba Matsushima Sushi (3000 yen + tax) ☆ 3.8 Anago Sushi (2600 yen + tax) ☆ 3.7 A shop specializing in takeout. I made a phone reservation in advance and went to pick it up. The phone response was very polite and I felt good about the pickup process. For the Saba Matsushima Sushi, they asked in advance if I wanted wasabi, so I recommend having it with wasabi. The lightly cooked mackerel and vinegared rice match perfectly and taste delicious! Personally, I felt that the wasabi may not be necessary, but when you add a little soy sauce, the goodness of the wasabi stands out. As for the Anago Sushi, it is of course more subtle compared to the mackerel, but it is also very satisfying. It may not be something you can buy frequently due to the price, but I think it's perfect for special celebrations or as a gift.

Located just a short walk from the main gate of Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, this longstanding sushi shop, in business for over 100 years, specializes in takeout orders. As it is a takeout-only establishment, it is necessary to call in advance to place an order. This shop falls under the category of Osaka-style sushi, and does not offer sushi rolls or other varieties. One of their specialties is the Sabamatsuzushi, which is a type of mackerel sushi presented in a unique way. Unlike other types of mackerel sushi, Sabamatsuzushi is not wrapped in kelp, but instead covered with a layer of white vinegar rice, similar to battera. The rice is packed firmly, providing a satisfying bite. The mackerel is lightly cured, giving it a slightly raw and incredibly delicious taste. The shop only uses high-quality mackerel, showcasing their dedication to excellence. Another recommended item is the Anagomatsuzushi, a type of conger eel sushi. While conger eel sushi is commonly associated with Fukakiyoshi in Sakai, this version is made in a roll form, resulting in a richer taste. The generous amount of conger eel on top of the vinegar rice is a delightful touch. Personally, I am a fan of mackerel sushi, but I am considering trying their boxed sushi next time. The attentive owner even saw me off to the entrance, adding to the charm of the shop's traditional atmosphere.

Near Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, there is a sushi restaurant called "Sushinao". It's easy to overlook, but it's a long-established takeout-only sushi restaurant with a lot of charm and history. I have used their services several times before. When you enter the shop, it feels like time flows differently there. The master and the proprietress are very friendly, and the waiting time is pleasant. The basic style is to make a reservation and pick up your order. Honestly, it's not cheap, so I always psych myself up with "Today, I'll treat myself!" But it's worth every penny for the quality and taste! This time, I splurged with three friends on their signature dishes: Sabamatsuzen Sushi for ¥3000, Kodashijaku Sushi for ¥2600, and Hakozushi for ¥2600. The Sabamatsuzen Sushi is made with thick slices of mackerel, with seaweed and wasabi between the mackerel and sushi rice. It may sound strange, but it's a perfect combination! The traditional vinegar rice cooked over a wood fire is delicious, with just the right balance of acidity. The mackerel, the slightly sweet kombu on top, everything is just perfect! The Hakozushi is beautifully crafted and tastes as good as it looks. And the Kodashijaku Sushi, as a lover of sea bream, was irresistible to me! All of them have a refined taste, with a perfect balance of sushi rice and ingredients. Surprisingly, they are quite filling too. We couldn't finish them all among the three of us! The meticulous work, the taste, the history... I think these would make great gifts or souvenirs that would be appreciated. I definitely want to go back for more for myself! Thank you for the delicious meal!

I visited a sushi shop in Osaka that I had been wanting to go to for a while. This shop has been passed down for 4 generations since the Edo period and is well-established. It is located in a slightly inconvenient area for those outside of the prefecture, but I made a stop there this time. I called ahead before my visit, and although the shop's business hours are until 7:00 pm, when I called after 3:00 pm, they only had one piece left. They use high-quality mackerel, so the quantity may vary depending on the day. It is a must to make a reservation early (or the day before). As soon as you enter the shop, you can see the kitchen, and it is clear that it is a shop specializing in takeout sushi. What I got this time was the "Mackerel Matsumae Sushi." At 3,000 yen per piece, it may seem expensive, but when you see the actual product, you will understand. They use mackerel in very good condition. When I actually tasted it, I felt it was quite reasonable. The mackerel is well-prepared, with a strong aroma and umami flavor. The seasoning is more salty than vinegary, which seems to match well with the fatty mackerel. The seasoned rice is gently flavored, with less sweetness than usual in the Kansai region. Although I felt that there was a lot of vinegared rice for a nigiri sushi, the work on the mackerel is successful, and the balance is not bad. The seasoning of the white-backed kelp is not too sweet and plays a supporting role. Furthermore, what sets this apart is the seaweed and wasabi sandwiched in between. The wasabi tightens the flavor nicely, and the seaweed accompanies the mackerel without being overpowering. Overall, there is an excellent sense of unity, and I felt that this shop is very delicious among the mackerel sushi shops in Kansai. They use high-quality mackerel and have a unique touch. Although the price is high, I felt more satisfied overall compared to the more expensive Kukin Asahiya shop.

Located about a 5-minute walk from Minamisoncho, this takeout-only pressed sushi shop is situated close to Tenmangu Shrine. I discovered this shop while exploring various mackerel sushi spots and decided to give it a try. The exterior is an old wooden house with a weathered sign and a hemp curtain, giving it a rustic charm. The curtain depicts a "Tai no Tai" (sea bream) design. Upon entering, you'll find the kitchen on the left and a raised seating area on the right, which feels like a regular living space. The owner, who is the fourth generation since the Edo period, started operating at this location shortly after World War II. Fun fact: the floor stones in the shop were once used alongside tram tracks. Menu items include mackerel Matsumae sushi, conger eel stick sushi, and small sea bream sparrow sushi, along with chirashi, rolled sushi, and nigiri sushi. I purchased the mackerel Matsumae sushi, a must-try item, as well as a boxed sushi set for the next day. I visited around 2 p.m., and they had sold out, so I had to wait for about an hour for them to prepare it. It's recommended to make a reservation before picking up your order. The mackerel Matsumae sushi features two layers of mackerel with white kelp on top, creating a visually stunning dish. The combination of seaweed and mackerel is quite unique and delicious. The wasabi inside adds a nice touch to the rich mackerel flavor. The vinegar rice is soft, complementing the thick mackerel slices perfectly. The mackerel Matsumae sushi costs 3000 yen. While mackerel sushi is a favorite of mine, good quality ones tend to be on the pricier side. The boxed sushi set includes sea bream, conger eel, shrimp and egg, and shrimp and saury pressed sushi. The presentation is beautiful, with a skillful use of colors and garnishes. Each piece is meticulously prepared, with moist conger eel and succulent shrimp. The balance of sweetness and acidity in the vinegar rice is spot on. This set costs 2600 yen. While boxed sushi is a classic choice, the mackerel sushi here is quite unique. Both options are of high quality and delicious. They would make a great treat to enjoy at home or as a gift. I would definitely visit again if I'm in the area. Thank you for the wonderful meal.

In December 2015, I was captivated by the stylish appearance of a building near Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. This place seemed to have a timeless charm. While "Tako Take" and "Yoshino Sushi" are famous for Osaka sushi, this longstanding establishment, known as "Sushinao," has been carrying on the tradition of Osaka culture. The noren curtain reads "Sushinao," and it has been passed down through four generations from the Edo period to the present. They seem to uphold tradition through delivery and takeout only. Upon entering the shop, the male owner greeted me warmly, and the small space surrounded by wood and stone floors exuded a welcoming atmosphere. I decided to get their specialty, the Saba Matsushima Sushi to go. ■□ Saba Matsushima Sushi - 1 piece for 3000 yen + tax This sushi has an elaborate appearance with two layers, and for some reason, nori and wasabi are sandwiched between the vinegared rice to enhance the flavor of the mackerel. The perfect balance of a slightly rare finish, salt, and the richness of the mackerel spreads exquisitely. The sushi rice, cooked in a traditional kettle called "hetsui," has a sweet taste and a soft texture. While Kyoto is known for mackerel sushi, this mackerel sushi is on a different level. The deliciousness is truly exceptional. ■□ In addition to the Saba Matsushima Sushi, they also offer chirashi, boxed sushi, and Osaka sushi, continuing the tradition of Osaka sushi that predates the creation of Edo-style nigiri sushi. While mackerel sushi in Kyoto typically costs around 4000 yen per piece, the quality of this mackerel sushi at 3240 yen seems reasonable. They mentioned that they may not be able to provide the dish if the mackerel doesn't meet their standards, so it's advisable to call ahead when ordering mackerel sushi. Despite being takeout only, this place is definitely worth a visit for mackerel sushi enthusiasts. It far exceeds the score of 3.03 from my visit.

I think this is a traditional and famous sushi restaurant in Osaka. When you eat here, you can feel the owner's meticulous work. Especially, the taste of the sushi rice is exceptional. The unique and delicious aroma that can only be found in long-established sushi restaurants is also present. Luckily, since my home is nearby, sometimes they even deliver to me. Whenever I suddenly crave delicious sushi rice, I rely on them. They have a strong sense of preserving the traditional taste. I plan to continue relying on them in the future.

This is a sushi restaurant located one block south from the south gate of Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, then two blocks east, and a little south. They specialize in delicious Osaka-style sushi for takeout, featuring exquisite dishes like mackerel Matsushima sushi and box sushi. The menu includes items like mackerel Matsushima sushi for 3000 yen, box sushi for 2600 yen, and Osaka sushi for two people for 3800 yen. The restaurant has a traditional atmosphere, reminiscent of old Osaka sushi shops. Mackerel sushi is a popular choice here, so it's recommended to call ahead to check availability and make a reservation. The mackerel sushi is made with rolled sushi rice from Sendai, cooked in a large pot, creating a perfect balance. The wasabi served with the sushi enhances the flavor, and it's recommended to place a little between the mackerel and rice for the best taste. The mackerel sushi is best enjoyed at a comfortable temperature and should not be refrigerated if saved for the next day. This family-run restaurant upholds the tradition of Osaka sushi and is conveniently located near Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and Tenmangu Fukutsuji Temple. It's a great choice for mackerel sushi lovers, those who appreciate beautiful Osaka-style sushi, and those looking for a thoughtful gift for someone who enjoys fine cuisine.

The other day, I saw this place on TV and wanted to visit. "Sushinao" is a long-established sushi restaurant, but they only offer takeout. I wanted to try the Sabamatsushima sushi, but when I called to confirm, they said they were already sold out for today and tomorrow. So, I decided to call earlier next time. Since they didn't have the Sabamatsushima sushi, I almost gave up, but I decided to order two pieces of the Upper Maki (1200 yen) and the Upper Chirashi (1500 yen) instead. When I asked how long it would take since I was close by, the staff kindly offered to deliver it, but I wanted to visit the store this time, so I went to pick it up. I arrived on time, and when I entered the shop, the young man who answered the phone came out to handle the payment and even saw me off as I left on my bike. The Upper Maki was beautifully topped with eel and flavorful shiitake mushrooms, and the rice was soft and well rolled. The ingredients on top of the Upper Chirashi were plentiful, and the rice had a nice touch that made it delicious. I ate it right away, so I'm sorry I don't have any photos. However, the total bill was 5000 yen for the Upper Maki at 1200 yen and the Upper Chirashi at 1500 yen, which surprised me, so I called to confirm when I got home. It turns out it was an additional charge, which was unexpected for me. I was surprised that such a traditional sushi restaurant would charge extra like that. The young man who answered the phone seemed busy and hurriedly hung up, so I regretted calling. But the taste was really delicious, so I definitely want to visit again. Since they don't offer nigiri for takeout, I'm thinking of asking them to bring it next time. I wonder when I'll get to try the Sabamatsushima sushi.

I had some business around Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, so I made a reservation for the famous sushi restaurant "Sushinao" in Osaka for their "Saba Matsumae Sushi." This is a long-established restaurant since the Edo period, now run by the 4th generation, specializing in sushi for delivery and takeout only. They use only the best quality mackerel for their sushi, so even with a reservation, there is a chance they may not have it available due to their commitment to quality. When I arrived at the reserved time, they had it ready for me. The owner was very polite and kind. I shared it with my wife as part of our dinner. The mackerel sushi had thick slices of fish, double-layered with the skin and flesh, wrapped in white kelp. The vinegared rice was firm and satisfying. It made me question all the mackerel sushi I had eaten before! It may be a bit pricey at 3,200 yen excluding tax, but it is definitely worth the value! Thank you for the wonderful meal! Oh, by the way, congratulations to the Hanshin Tigers on that thing after 18 years! 🎉

I used to come around here often since I was a child, but I never knew about this sushi restaurant. I thought they only served mackerel sushi. When I entered, I saw a clean and spacious kitchen-like area. After a while, a very friendly owner came out and said they could prepare it in 10-15 minutes, so I should come back later. It's perfect timing since I was planning to visit the Tenmangu Shrine. In any case, I was planning to buy it and go, so it worked out well! The mackerel sushi was thick and the rice portion was excellent, very delicious! This mackerel sushi is truly satisfying. However, I was surprised that one piece was over 3,000 yen, as I tend to be frugal. Nevertheless, it was worth the price. I will definitely come back for a special occasion to buy it again.

I visited the restaurant around noon on a regular day. When I ordered the mackerel sushi skewers, they said it would take about 30 minutes, so I went to visit the nearby Tenmangu Shrine. I spent some time learning about the story of Sugawara no Michizane and then returned to the restaurant. The service was very polite and pleasant. The taste of the sushi was rich and delicious, with nothing to complain about.