Hokkyokusei - JAPAN'S OMURICE HOOK
Introduction to the chain
Hokkyokusei (北極星) is an iconic Osaka restaurant, often regarded as the inventor of omu-rice, a popular Japanese dish consisting of a fluffy omelette topped with rice sautéed in ketchup. Founded in 1922, this restaurant, whose name means “North Star”, offers a return to the roots of Yoshoku (Western-inspired) cuisine.
Nationwide presence
Mainly based in Osaka, with its famous establishment in the Shinsaibashi district, Hokkyokusei has several other branches in Japan, often in shopping malls or historic districts.
What can we eat?
The star dish is omurice, available in several versions: chicken, seafood, with demi-glace sauce, curry or au gratin. Other Yoshoku-style dishes include chopped steak, croquettes and Neapolitan-style spaghetti.
Order at Hokkyokusei
Ordering is done at the table. The menu is illustrated and sometimes available in several languages. The service is traditional, with a calm, elegant ambience, making it an ideal place for families or couples.
What are omurice?
Omu-rice (a cross between omelette and rice) is a popular Japanese dish consisting of rice sautéed in ketchup (often with chicken or vegetables) wrapped in a thin omelette. It is often served with a drizzle of ketchup or demi-glace sauce on top. It’s a favorite of children and adults alike, and typical of “yoshoku” (Japanese-style Western cuisine).
Personal experience
On a weekday evening in July, at around 8pm, we went to dinner at Hokkyokusei, located on the 7ᵉ floor of the Edion building, at the crossroads of Shijo-Kawaramachi. As it was already late and the restaurant closes relatively early, we were immediately ushered to a table without having to wait. Around 80% of the tables inside the restaurant were occupied. The restaurant has both classic tables and counters facing the wall. When you sit down, the staff brings you a glass of water and a napkin.
Next to your seat is an illustrated menu, and as an English menu is also available, the staff will ask if you need it. The menu offers a wide variety of rice omelettes, accompanied by a few side dishes such as salads or fried chicken. There’s also a special menu for children. Once you’ve decided what you’d like to order, you call a member of staff to place your order.
Omurice is a very common dish in Japanese households, particularly popular with children. However, this restaurant’s omurice is renowned for its perfect cooking: the egg is prepared extremely softly and lightly. If you’d like to discover omurice, a very popular dish in Japan, don’t hesitate to try it at least once!
Actual cost
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Omurice with duck and Kyoto spring onion (Kujō-negi): ¥1,580
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Traditional Japanese “Ice Kurin”: ¥300
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Ice milkshake: ¥400 ×2
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Scotch egg: ¥450
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Extra cheese: ¥250
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Children’s menu: ¥1,180
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Draft beer: ¥730 ×2
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Omurice with eggs and mentaiko (seasoned hake roe): ¥1,430
Total for 2 adults and 1 child: ¥7,450 ≈ $46.27
(based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 161 yen)
Basic information
📍 Location: mainly Osaka (Shinsaibashi), other major citiess
💰 Average price: ¥1,500 – ¥2,500
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00 – 21:00 approx.
👪 Recommended for: families, couples, yoshoku enthusiasts
🌐 Official website: https://www.hokkyokusei.jp/
Highlights
– Soft, emblematic Omurice
– Retro Japanese ambience, more or less pronounced depending on the location
– Cultural and culinary experience
Note
– Few restaurants outside Kansai
– Possible queuing at weekends