Introduction
When it comes to Japanese street food, two dishes reign supreme: yakisoba and okonomiyaki. Both are sizzling, flavorful, and absolutely addictive. But if you’ve never tried either, you might be wondering: Which one should I go for first?
If you’ve ever walked through the vibrant streets of Osaka or Tokyo, you’ve probably caught the irresistible aroma of these dishes wafting through food stalls.
Yakisoba, a stir-fried noodle dish, is packed with umami goodness, while okonomiyaki, often called the Japanese Pancake, is a crispy, cabbage-filled masterpiece topped with rich sauces and bonito flakes that dance with the heat.
Whether you’re craving something quick and easy or looking to impress your friends with an authentic Japanese food experience, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down and find out which dish deserves the top spot on your must-try list!
What Is Yakisoba?
Yakisoba (焼きそば) translates to fried noodles, but don’t be fooled—it’s not made with soba noodles. Instead, it uses wheat-based yakisoba noodles, stir-fried with thinly sliced meat (often pork or chicken), cabbage, carrots, and a tangy-sweet sauce that ties everything together. Think of it as Japan’s answer to chow mein—but with its own distinct flair.
Types of Yakisoba
- Classic – The OG version, stir-fried with vegetables and meat, then topped with pickled ginger.
- Yakisoba Pan – Yes, it’s yakisoba inside a soft hot dog bun! A carb-lover’s dream.
- Seafood Yakisoba – Loaded with shrimp, squid, or scallops for a briny, umami twist.
It’s a go-to quick meal in Japan, served at festivals, food stalls, and even in school lunches. The slightly crispy noodles, coated in sauce, make every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to whip up at home in under 20 minutes!
Check out my recipe right here if you want to make it at home.
What Is Okonomiyaki?
Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き) literally means grilled as you like it, and that’s exactly what it is—a savory pancake made with shredded cabbage, batter, and whatever toppings you desire. Often described as Japan’s version of pizza, it’s customizable, comforting, and packed with layers of texture and flavor.
Different Styles of Okonomiyaki
- Osaka-style – The most common type, where all ingredients are mixed into the batter before cooking.
- Hiroshima-style – A layered version with yakisoba noodles inside (yes, it’s a hybrid of both dishes!).
- Modern Okonomiyaki – A fusion twist with extra cheese, seafood, or even mochi inside.
What makes okonomiyaki so addictive is the okonomiyaki sauce—a thick, slightly sweet, umami-packed topping that, when combined with Japanese mayo, seaweed flakes, and dancing bonito flakes, creates a flavor explosion. It’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you haven’t been eating it all your life!
Check out my Okonomiyaki recipe right here if you want to make it at home.
Yakisoba vs Okonomiyaki: The Ultimate Showdown
Now, let’s compare these two delicious dishes side by side:
| Feature | Yakisoba | Okonomiyaki |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Noodles | Cabbage & Batter |
| Texture | Soft & Slightly Crispy | Crispy Outside, Soft Inside |
| Typical Protein | Pork, Chicken, or Seafood | Bacon, Shrimp, or Cheese |
| Sauce | Tangy, Sweet Yakisoba Sauce | Thick, Sweet Okonomiyaki Sauce |
| Best For | Quick Meal, Street Food | Hearty, Filling Comfort Food |
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Try First?
If you’re looking for a fast, stir-fried dish with a sweet-savory kick, go for yakisoba! But if you want a crispy, customizable, and utterly satisfying pancake, then okonomiyaki is calling your name. Either way, you can’t go wrong—so why not make both?
Want to try them at home? Check out our Easy Yakisoba Recipe and Okonomiyaki Recipe to start cooking today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese pancake made with shredded cabbage, batter, and various toppings like bacon, shrimp, and cheese. It’s cooked on a griddle and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayo, and bonito flakes.
Okonomiyaki can be healthy if made with lean protein, plenty of cabbage, and minimal sauce. However, it can also be indulgent if loaded with cheese, bacon, and extra mayo.
Yakisoba Pan is a popular Japanese sandwich where stir-fried yakisoba noodles are stuffed inside a soft hot dog bun. It’s a favorite snack for students and street food lovers!
It’s simple! Stir-fry yakisoba noodles with thinly sliced meat, cabbage, and carrots, then toss everything in yakisoba sauce. Serve with pickled ginger for an authentic touch.
