Best Bars in Osaka

Warmly dubbed “Japan’s Kitchen”, Osaka is known for the culinary scene and booming nightlife. With all the delicious, innovative and imaginative restaurants and dishes, it is no wonder Osaka has some of the best bars in Japan. Much of the nightlife in Osaka can be categorized into bars/pubs which are known as “Gaijin” or nightclubs/lounges. Gaijin refers to bars that host foreign and international patrons and offer English menus and options. For those looking to enjoy an evening out here are some of the best bars in Osaka.

PC and Retro Bar Space Station

A fun step back in time and a trip down memory lane filled with retro games and a chill vibe, PC and Retro Space Station is one of the best bars in Osaka attracting both locals and tourists. The bar emits a nostalgic vibe seen in the array of games including Nintendo, N64, and classics like Ninja Turtles and Rocket League. Drinks are reasonably priced and since the bar is run by expats there are English menus. For those looking to enjoy a fun-filled game night with some great drinks, the Space Station will not disappoint.

2-13-3 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0086, Osaka Prefecture
Open 7 days a week from 7:00 pm – 2:00 am

FIJI Bar Osaka

A welcoming bar run by a native from Fiji who fuses his native style with Japanese culture creating a unique set of cocktails and vibe. FIJI bar is found in the Dotonbori maze and can be difficult to find but is worth seeking out. The bar itself is decked out with photos and memorabilia all tellings a unique story and creating a special bond between Fiji and Japan in Osaka. Serving Fijian beer and a plethora of handcrafted and creative cocktails, FIJI Bar is a must, and one of the best bars in Osaka. For rugby fans, there is a great vibe and even some famous Fijian and Kiwi rugby players have been spotted at the bar as regulars.

5-30 Soemoncho, Chuo-ku | Mitsudera Galaxy Bldg 2, B1F-A, Osaka 542-0084, Osaka Prefecture
Monday – Thursday 6.00 pm to late / Friday and Saturday 6.00 pm to 5.00 am / Sunday 6.00 pm to 11.00 pm

Balabushka

One of the oldest dart and pool bars in Osaka, Balabushka has a chill and fun atmosphere and it is easy to see why it continues to remain so popular as one of the best bars in Osaka. Inexpensive drinks and a mix of expats, locals, and tourists create a unique ambiance that is inclusive and enjoyable for a fun night out in Osaka enjoying drinks, games and good company.

542-0086 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nishishinsaibashi, 2 −9−5
6:00 pm – 3:00 am

Rock bar Cherry Bomb

Perfect for locals and tourists, the small bar tucked away Shinsaibashi, rock bar Cherry Bomb has a quaint charm and relaxed vibe. The Osaka bar is laid back, with a rock and roll atmosphere with little add-ons like Jenga on the bar, and Taco Tuesday. American owners are friendly, approachable and open their doors to both locals and tourists creating a fun space and a great place for meeting old friends or making new ones. Drinks are reasonably priced and offer craft beers along with other cocktails.

2-4-8 Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku | Junon Hachiman Bldg 5F, Osaka 542-0083, Osaka Prefecture
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 9:00 pm – 4:00 am
Tuesday 7:00 pm – 4:00 am
Friday 8:00 pm – 6:00 am
Saturday, Sunday 8:00 pm – 6:00 am (times may vary)

The Drunken Clam Osaka

An homage to the bar from the American TV show “Family Guy”, the Drunken Clam is a low-key, casual drinking spot in Osaka that attracts a mostly international crowd. The bar offers inexpensive drinks and an extra bonus – karaoke. While it may seem odd to have this type of bar in the middle of Old Osaka this is one of the best bars in Osaka for foreigners looking to have a fun time.

6-2-6 Souemoncho, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0084, Japan
Monday – Thursday 8:00 pm – 2:00 am, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm – 4:30 am

Cafe Absinthe

A modern Izakaya bar that is a comfortable place to sit that also offers a great outdoor terrace, Cafe Absinthe is a perfect place for a relaxed drink. The Osaka bar also offers Hookah (shisha) and of course, as the name says, Absinthe. A chilled out vibe, great for lunch, dinner or after hours in Osaka.

1 -2-27 Kitahorie, Nishi Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
Sunday – Thursday 12:00 pm – 3:00 am (Closed Tuesdays)
Friday, Saturday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am

Our Best of Osaka Walking Tour is the perfect way to spend the day and get your bearings before heading out for drinks. We also suggest reading our guide on 24 hours in Osaka to make the most out of the experience. If you’re heading to Kyoto next, check out our list of the best bars in Kyoto.