Chibo Abeno Q's Mall

Chibo is to Kansai-style okonomiyaki is what Japan is to Osaka — its proud home. Traditionally, the savory pancake is enjoyed on the streets, a cheap but fulfilling grub made with a simple formula: a batter mixed with cabbages and other ingredients, finished with sauce, mayonnaise and katsuobushi (bonito flakes).

At Chibo, which opened its first store in 1973, okonomiyaki is reimagined. No longer confined to humble corners, the dish enters the realm of sleek office buildings, upscale hotels and modern malls. This transformation is evident at Chico’s Abeno Q’s Mall branch on the fourth floor of this massive shopping complex.

Part of the casual Chibo brand — for a more upscale experience, try President Chibo or Chibo Elegance — this store elevates savory pancakes. The secret lies in the preparation: a thick iron plate, mineral-rich hot spring water from Kagoshima in the batter and a proprietary flour blend. Pancakes are brushed with house-made sauces, creamy mayonnaise, fragrant green nori seaweed and swaying bonito flakes.

But Chibo’s creative spirit is also why it has a sharing menu that dabbles in both familiarity and newness. Take, for example, the Chiboyaki, a standout creation featuring a whole shrimp topped with crispy fried shrimp-leg crackers. Or the dotonboriyaki, a hearty medley of pork belly, squid, shrimp, beef tendon, konjac and cheese. Another favorite, tonpeiyaki, wraps chopped tender pork in a fluffy omelet glazed with secret sauce and mayo. From classics like yakisoba and teppanyaki to inventive creations, Chibo offers more than the accustomed taste of okonomiyaki.

Chibo provides a convivial setting for enjoying Osaka-style street food in comfort, perfect for lively conversations with family and friends. When indecision strikes, this no-fuss spot is an easy choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner.