Kushikatsu is a firm favorite in the foodie's paradise of Osaka. Fast, tasty and cheap, this deep-fried food on a stick is popular with Osakans who don't like wasting time and expect value for money.

“When I think of famous places in Osaka, the Shinsekai district comes to mind,” Aida said. “I enjoyed eating kushikatsu, “takoyaki” (octopus dumplings) and other Osaka-style foods here.

The idea for strangers sharing a dipping sauce stems from the nature of people in Osaka, who do not want to waste expensive sauce, Ko said. “Chefs deep fry kushikatsu in front of customers ...