Searching okonomiyaki at late-night in Shanghai? Then you Should Try Himari in Shanghai’s Gubei district. They have more than a dozen okonomiyaki flavors and open till 1am on weekends.
What’s okonomiyaki?
is a Japanese teppanyaki savory pancake dish consisting of wheat flour batter and other ingredients (mixed, or as toppings) cooked on a teppan (flat griddle). Common additions include cabbage, meat, and seafood, and toppings include okonomiyaki sauce (made with Worcestershire sauce), aonori (dried seaweed flakes), katsuobushi (bonito flakes), Japanese mayonnaise, and pickled ginger.
comes in several regional variations, but the two most famous styles are Hiroshima-style and Osaka-style (Kansai-style).
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is unique because the ingredients are cooked separately and then layered rather than mixed together. It typically starts with a thin pancake-like batter as the base, followed by layers of shredded cabbage, pork belly, and other ingredients, which are carefully stacked on top. A key feature of this style is the addition of yakisoba noodles or udon, making it a heartier dish. The final touch includes a generous drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce, a sprinkle of bonito flakes, and sometimes a fried egg on top for extra richness.
In contrast, Osaka-style okonomiyaki, also known as Kansai-style, is made by mixing all the ingredients together before grilling. The batter is combined with finely chopped cabbage, meat (such as pork or seafood), and sometimes tempura bits for added crunch. Once cooked to a golden brown, it is topped with okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayonnaise, dried seaweed (aonori), and bonito flakes, which dance from the heat. This version is more common across Japan and is considered the classic style of okonomiyaki.
Both styles have their own loyal followings, and while Osaka-style is widely available across Japan, Hiroshima-style is a must-try specialty when visiting Hiroshima. No matter which version you try, okonomiyaki is a delicious and satisfying dish that reflects the regional flavors of Japan. 🍽️🇯🇵
Okonomiyaki is traditionally cooked on a large iron griddle (teppan), giving it a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and flavorful. In many authentic okonomiyaki restaurants, diners are provided with small metal spatulas (hera), which they use to cut and eat the pancake directly from the griddle, enhancing the experience of this sizzling dish. Some restaurants even offer extra ingredients so customers can customize their okonomiyaki, whether they prefer it extra crispy or with additional toppings.
The filling options for okonomiyaki are incredibly diverse, allowing for a variety of textures and flavors. Common ingredients include thinly sliced pork belly, squid, prawns, octopus, and cheese, while more unique variations might feature mochi (rice cakes), yakisoba noodles, kimchi, or even vegetables like corn and green onions.
Once cooked to perfection, okonomiyaki is topped with a delicious blend of sweet and savory okonomiyaki sauce, creamy Japanese mayonnaise, dried seaweed (aonori), and delicate bonito flakes (katsuobushi), which appear to “dance” from the rising heat. Some versions may also include a fried egg or additional toppings for extra richness.
This highly customizable dish is not only a staple of Japanese street food culture but also a fun and interactive meal enjoyed in specialty restaurants across Japan. Whether you like it classic, extra crispy, or loaded with unique toppings, okonomiyaki is a must-try dish that brings together bold flavors and a satisfying umami taste. 🍽️🔥
Okonomiyaki at Himari
Himari has more than a dozen okonomiyaki flavors, and the types leans in direction of Osaka-style, priced from ¥46 to ¥80.
At this restaurant, okonomiyaki comes in a variety of combinations, with classic options like pork, seafood, and noodles, as well as cheese for those who enjoy a richer flavor. The pancakes are prepared at the cooking station before being served onto the hotplate at your table, keeping them warm as you eat. However, in some cases, the hotplate may not be turned on. If you want to enjoy the full experience with your okonomiyaki staying hot and crispy, be sure to ask the staff to turn on the hotplate for you. 🔥🍽️
In addition to their delicious okonomiyaki, Himari 日葵 also serves a variety of snack dishes, grilled teppan meats, fried bites, and flavorful fried rice, making it a great spot for casual dining or sharing small plates with friends.
For those looking to enjoy a drink, Himari 日葵 offers affordable beverages, including a highball machine, where drinks start at just ¥30 per pint, with prices increasing based on the whisky’s strength. Beer lovers can also enjoy a refreshing pint, starting from ¥25, making it a budget-friendly choice for a fun night out. 🍻🔥
The vibe is informal, enjoyable relying in your group, and could also be rowdy on the weekends with a ingesting crowd.
Himari 日葵
Himari 日葵
Address: 677 Xianxia Lu 仙霞路677号
Tel: 33538708
Hours: Mon-Thu, 5pm-11:30pm; Fri, 5pm-1am; Sat, 11:30am-1am; Sun, 11:30am-11:30pm
Address: No. 01-05, Bldg 5, 900 Tianshan Lu 天山路900号汇金百货5楼01-05室
Tel: 32562627