Best of 19 takoyaki in Houston
Takoyaki in Houston is a rising trend that's capturing the hearts of food enthusiasts. These delicious ball-shaped snacks, originating from Osaka, Japan, are made of a wheat flour-based batter and filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion. Houston's diverse food scene has embraced takoyaki, offering it in various establishments, from food trucks to Japanese restaurants, satisfying locals and visitors alike. Don't miss out on trying takoyaki in Houston and experiencing a taste of Japanese street food culture!
- 1. Tiger Den
- 2. Yokushi Robata
- 3. Kata Robata
- 4. Izakaya Hi
- 5. JINYA Ramen Bar - Midtown
- 6. Tamashi
- 7. Tamashi
- 8. JINYA Ramen Bar - FM 1960
- 9. Toyori
- 10. Airi Ramen
- 11. Ichiro Sapporo Ramen
- 12. Izakaya Wa
- 13. Tamashi
- 14. Ishin Udon
- 15. Kawa Sushi
- 16. Zen Japanese Izakaya
- 17. Papa Yu
- 18. Domoishi Sushi & Hibachi ALL YOU CAN EAT Summit Square
- 19. Toukei
1. Tiger Den
Authentic and affordable Japanese cuisine in a casual setting

The meal served at this establishment was exceptional, particularly the miso ramen which I highly recommend. The dining environment was serene and calm, despite all tables being occupied. To avoid wait times, I suggest arriving early as the restaurant is popular and can get busy. The overall experience was positive, and I would certainly visit again.
During our visit, we sampled several dishes including takoyaki octopus, whole squid teriyaki, and multiple skewers. Each dish was skillfully prepared and full of flavor. The taste of each item was on point, showcasing the chef's culinary expertise.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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2. Yokushi Robata
Warm and inviting atmosphere, Knowledgeable staff, Seasonal ingredient selections

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is known for its crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior filled with diced octopus. The takoyaki served here excellently represents this description, providing a satisfying contrast in texture with each bite. Upon trying the takoyaki, one can easily taste the perfect balance of flavors, from the savory octopus to the sweet sauce and tender green onions.
This dish's popularity stems from its combination of contrasting textures and flavors. The exterior of the takoyaki is crispy and caramelized, while the inside remains soft and pillowy. The diced octopus adds a savory note, complemented by the sweet sauce and green onions. Together, these elements create a harmonious and satisfying flavor experience that keeps people coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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3. Kata Robata
Interactive dining experience, authentic Japanese flavors, made-to-order dishes

Takoyaki at Kata Robata is a must-try dish, widely regarded as one of the best outside of Japan. These delicious ball-shaped snacks feature a crispy exterior with a soft interior, perfectly balancing texture.
The takoyaki at Kata Robata is prepared to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a soft, delightful interior. It's widely considered to be among the best available outside of Japan, making it a must-try for anyone seeking authentic and delicious takoyaki.
TOPICS
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Fusion Cuisine
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4. Izakaya Hi
Authentic Japanese Izakaya experience, Unique takoyaki flavors, Relaxed atmosphere

Izakaya Hi offers an impressive takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, that is definitely worth trying. It is one of the best takoyaki available outside of Japan. The exterior of Izakaya Hi's takoyaki is crispy and golden brown, while the interior is soft and flavorful.
Takoyaki is a ball-shaped snack made of a wheat flour-based batter and filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, green onion, and pickled ginger. It is typically seasoned with takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise, and then topped with dried bonito flakes and seaweed. Izakaya Hi's version stays true to this traditional recipe, resulting in a delicious and authentic takoyaki experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
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5. JINYA Ramen Bar - Midtown
Authentic Japanese ramen, homemade noodles, carefully sourced ingredients

The individual, along with a girlfriend, visited a location where they tried takoyaki, a popular street food. Both individuals found the dish enjoyable. However, the first-time eater had a negative experience with the first takoyaki due to its high temperature. They recommended others not to put the entire piece in their mouth at once.
Takoyaki is a delicious and well-loved street food. When consuming it, one must be cautious of its temperature. Putting the entire thing in your mouth can result in discomfort due to the heat. To fully enjoy the taste and texture of takoyaki, it is recommended to take small bites and let it cool down a bit before consuming.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. Tamashi
Delicious Japanese street food, unique sauces, and friendly service

Tamashi, a restaurant known for its delicious and unique Japanese cuisine, offers a variety of dishes such as savory-citrusy Brussel sprouts and classic Takoyaki octopus fritters. The menu also includes Japanese ramen, tonkotsu ramen, and spicy tuna rolls for those looking to try something new. The restaurant's efficient staff delivers high-quality service, leaving guests satisfied. Attractive prices and a Google rating of 4.6 make Tamashi a great option for those looking for a delicious Japanese meal.
Moving to the unique offerings of Tamashi, their savory-citrusy Brussel sprouts and classic Takoyaki octopus fritters are standout dishes. The menu also includes Japanese ramen, tonkotsu ramen, and spicy tuna rolls for a different culinary experience. The staff's efficiency and commitment to quality are evident in the positive reviews. In terms of cost, Tamashi offers attractive prices, and the restaurant has received a high rating of 4.6 on Google. This combination of factors makes Tamashi a great choice for anyone looking to try authentic Japanese cuisine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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7. Tamashi
Authentic Japanese street food, unique dining experience

Houston is home to numerous ramen spots, but the mentioned one stands out for its in-house made sauces, broth, and takoyaki. The takoyaki, in particular, is a must-try, rated 5/5 for its delicious taste. The sushi is also worth noting, with fresh ingredients and well-prepared rolls. Although it might not compare to specialized sushi restaurants, it is an excellent choice for a quick bite before a movie or other activities.
The establishment's uniqueness lies in its dedication to creating homemade sauces, broth, and takoyaki, which sets it apart from other ramen places in Houston. The sushi served here features fresh and high-quality ingredients, resulting in solid and enjoyable rolls. While sushi enthusiasts may find more exceptional options at specialized sushi restaurants, this place remains an ideal spot for a satisfying meal before attending a movie or engaging in other nearby activities.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. JINYA Ramen Bar - FM 1960
Crafts every broth from scratch, focus on sustainable and organic ingredients

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, was the chosen starter for this meal. The dish, consisting of ball-shaped dough filled with diced octopus, was generally enjoyed. The exterior was well-cooked and crispy, providing a satisfying texture. However, there was a noticeable level of saltiness in the dish that might have been overwhelming for some.
Despite the slightly excessive salt content, the takoyaki's overall quality was commendable. It served as a great introduction to the meal, showcasing the skillful cooking and authentic ingredients. Whether you're a fan of seafood or trying octopus for the first time, this well-prepared takoyaki is recommended for its delicious taste and cultural authenticity.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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9. Toyori
Authentic Japanese cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service

Takoyaki, also known as octopus balls, are a popular Japanese street food that is a must-try. These delicious treats are typically made from a wheat flour-based batter and filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, green onion, and pickled ginger. Once cooked, takoyaki are served with a variety of toppings such as mayo, eel sauce, and dried bonito flakes.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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10. Airi Ramen
Homemade noodles, offers vegetarian and vegan options

The takoyaki served in this establishment is truly exceptional. Its exterior is crispy, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the interior is soft and tender. The contrast in textures enhances the overall dining experience.
In terms of flavor, the takoyaki is also a success. It is cooked to perfection, allowing the various ingredients to meld together seamlessly. The result is a delicious and well-rounded taste that leaves you wanting more.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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11. Ichiro Sapporo Ramen
Traditional Japanese décor and atmosphere, using fresh ingredients imported from Japan

I had a decent experience, but there are a few areas that could be improved. My request for water was asked three times, and I received my takoyaki before my water. This resulted in me having to eat my takoyaki without having a drink handy.
The takoyaki was enjoyable and met my expectations. It was served hot and fresh, indicating that it was prepared soon after I placed my order. However, there was an issue with the temperature as it wasn't hot all the way through, which slightly dampened my overall experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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12. Izakaya Wa
Traditional Japanese decor, Wide variety of sake, Late-night menu

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is renowned for its crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior filled with diced octopus. The takoyaki served here perfectly captures this authentic taste and texture, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Japanese cuisine.
Reminiscent of a culinary journey to Osaka, this takoyaki delivers an authentic and satisfying flavor experience. The perfectly cooked exterior, coupled with a soft interior filled with tender octopus, transports diners to the bustling streets of Japan. This dish is highly recommended for anyone seeking a delicious and memorable taste of Japan.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
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13. Tamashi
Authentic Japanese street food experience, unique decor and atmosphere

The restaurant offers a variety of delicious Japanese dishes, including takoyaki, gyoza, ramen, and shrimp skewers. The takoyaki is a standout, with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. It is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.
In addition to takoyaki, the gyoza and ramen are also high-quality options. The gyoza have a delicious, savory filling and a crispy exterior, while the ramen is made with rich, flavorful broth and fresh noodles. The shrimp skewers are a great choice for seafood lovers, with tender, juicy shrimp grilled to perfection. Overall, the restaurant provides a satisfying dining experience with its diverse and appetizing Japanese menu.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Ishin Udon
Authentic Japanese udon restaurant with a variety of toppings and dishes

The age tofu dish had a slightly slippery texture but offered a more flavorful experience than other age tofu dishes I’ve tried at different restaurants. Among the assortment of Japanese izakaya-style appetizers, the takoyaki stood out as my favorite. This popular appetizer is generally well-liked, and this version was particularly delightful. The seafood filling was tender and plentiful, while the toppings provided a rich, savory umami taste.
The restaurant provided a good selection of Japanese izakaya fare, including chicken karaage and takoyaki. These appetizers were at least as satisfying as those I’ve had at other establishments in Houston.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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15. Kawa Sushi
Wide variety of sushi rolls, poke bowls, and Japanese dishes offered.

In my recent visit to a Houston-based restaurant, I decided to try it out based on its high Google rating. The restaurant offered an extensive menu, but I opted to start with three appetizers: edamame beans, calamari with a sweet chili sauce, and takoyaki. To follow, I chose two main courses, a teriyaki salmon and a sushi platter, both of which came with miso soup and salad. I also added an extra shaggy dog maki roll to my order.
The food was delicious, and the service was fast, making for an enjoyable dining experience. The appetizers stood out, with fresh and flavorful ingredients. Specifically, the calamari was cooked to perfection and served with an exceptional sweet chili sauce. Meanwhile, the teriyaki salmon and sushi platter were both satisfying and tasty. Notably, the miso soup and salad served as excellent accompaniments to the mains. Overall, the appetizing food and quick service made my first visit to the restaurant a success.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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16. Zen Japanese Izakaya
Authentic Japanese Izakaya with late-night hours and an extensive sake menu

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, was a delightful surprise with its perfectly cooked and well-seasoned flavor. The exterior was crispy, providing a satisfying crunch, while the interior was tender and soft. The chefs demonstrated expertise in creating this dish, as it was reminiscent of takoyaki found in Japan.
Overall, the takoyaki served here is exceptional. The exterior has a satisfying crunch that gives way to a soft and delicate interior, just like authentic takoyaki from Japan. The combination of crispy and soft textures, along with the well-seasoned flavor, makes this dish a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic Japanese culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Weekend Dining
17. Papa Yu
Vegetarian and gluten-free options available, casual and family-friendly atmosphere

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, can be enjoyed at its finest at Papa Yu. The takoyaki served here is cooked to perfection, with a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior. The flavor is exceptional, with a savory taste that will leave you craving more. Made with fresh ingredients, the takoyaki at Papa Yu is a delicious and satisfying appetizer that will kickstart your meal in the best way possible.
Overall, the takoyaki at Papa Yu is a standout dish that is not to be missed. Its great flavor and fresh ingredients make it a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Japanese cuisine. As an appetizer, it provides a tantalizing taste of what's to come, setting the stage for a satisfying and enjoyable meal. Whether you're a fan of Japanese food or just looking to try something new, the takoyaki at Papa Yu is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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18. Domoishi Sushi & Hibachi ALL YOU CAN EAT Summit Square
Interactive teppanyaki cooking performance

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, was a standout dish during the meal. Its delicious taste and perfectly cooked exterior made it a must-try. The dish featured small balls of dough filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, green onion, and pickled ginger, all cooked to perfection in a special takoyaki pan.
The highlight of the meal was the takoyaki, which featured an excellent balance of flavors and textures. The exterior was crispy, while the interior was soft and gooey, with the diced octopus providing a nice bite. The addition of tempura scraps, green onion, and pickled ginger gave the dish an extra layer of flavor and complexity, making it a memorable culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Toukei
Homemade takoyaki sauce and mayo, Japanese-owned and operated

The food at this establishment is truly outstanding, with a variety of dishes that are sure to please any palate. Among the recommended dishes are Takoyaki, Gyoza, Sukiyako Don, and Spicy Black Ramen. The service is also noteworthy, as the staff are friendly, attentive, and helpful, making for an excellent dining experience.
In terms of atmosphere, the place is beautiful and would be a great setting for a variety of occasions. However, one downside is that the music can be a bit loud, which may make it challenging to have conversations with your dining companions. Overall, it is still a highly recommended spot, with a food rating of 5/5, service rating of 5/5, and atmosphere rating of 4/5.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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