SPECIALTY
Takoyaki & Osaka-style Standing Izakaya
OPENING YEAR
June 2025
FOUNDERS
Mr. Baba & Mr. Madate
ADDRESS
16 Thai Van Lung, Sai Gon
Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
HOSHIZAKI WORKS
Kitchen design, Installation & After-sales
INTRODUCTION
Born in the quaint backstreets of Sangenjaya, Tokyo, “Tachinomi / Takoyaki Namba” embodies the true spirit of Osaka — vibrant, nostalgic, and full of flavor.
What began as a small standing bar steeped in Showa-era charm has now expanded beyond Japan’s borders, bringing the warm soul of Osaka to Vietnam.
The concept was envisioned by Mr. Baba, who, after spending years abroad, was inspired to share the beauty of Japanese street food culture with diners around the world. Upon learning that Mr. Takada, his former colleague from Namba, was working in Vietnam, the two reunited to pursue their shared dream — to recreate the warmth, craftsmanship, and lively energy of an authentic Osaka izakaya in Vietnam.
“WE WERE TRULY IMPRESSED BY HOSHIZAKI’S DEDICATION AND RELIABILITY.
FROM DESIGN AND INSTALLATION TO OPERATIONAL SUPPORT, THEIR TEAM PAID CLOSE ATTENTION TO EVERY DETAIL,
ALLOWING US TO RECREATE AN AUTHENTIC JAPANESE KITCHEN — REFINED, EFFICIENT, AND TRUE TO ITS ORIGINAL STANDARDS
— RIGHT HERE IN VIETNAM.”
MR. BABA (Co-founder of Takoyaki Namba)
Bringing the true taste of Osaka to Vietnam, Takoyaki Namba opened in 2025, marking a new chapter for the brand beyond Japan. Founded by Mr. Baba and Mr. Takada, former colleagues from NAMBA in Tokyo, the restaurant was born from their shared passion for Japanese street food and the warmth of the Osaka-style izakaya experience.
Among several Southeast Asian destinations considered, Vietnam stood out for its strong economy, vibrant food culture, and growing love for Japanese cuisine. “We saw Vietnam as a place where our food — simple, soulful, and full of character — could truly connect with people,” says Mr. Baba.
Famous for its signature takoyaki, Namba uses a batter infused with dashi broth for a fluffy texture and creamy interior. Guests can choose from sauce, ponzu, soy, or salt — with “Shio Mayo” (salt & mayonnaise) as the standout favorite. The menu also features Osaka-style izakaya classics like doteyaki (slow-simmered beef tendon), best enjoyed with a highball or lemon sour for a relaxed, lively meal.
To ensure the kitchen met Japanese quality and hygiene standards, Namba partnered with Hoshizaki, who provided full support — from layout design and construction to installation and maintenance. This collaboration helped the restaurant achieve the same level of precision and excellence as in Japan. Looking ahead, the founders plan to expand Takoyaki Namba across Vietnam, sharing Osaka’s joyful culinary spirit with more diners.
In Japan, equipment is often selected mainly based on price and specifications, but overseas, where direct oversight can be more challenging, dependable service becomes a critical factor. For that reason, Hoshizaki was the natural choice for this venture.
With its balance of authentic flavor, Japanese craftsmanship, and operational precision, Takoyaki Namba is bringing the heart of Osaka to Ho Chi Minh City — one takoyaki at a time.
