Tabelog ratingFor over 70 years, Shima Ya Honten (嶋屋 本店) has been a single-minded specialist in one of Osaka's most beloved local snacks: candied sweet potato. Unlike the typical hard-candied daigaku-imo, their signature Abeno Potato is made by frying large chunks of sweet potato and soaking them in a special syrup made with ice sugar (氷砂糖). This technique allows the light sweetness to permeate the potato, resulting in a moist, shiny exterior and a fluffy, steamy (hokuhoku) interior.
Guests consistently praise this unique texture and the light, non-cloying sweetness of the syrup. The generous, chunky portions are perfect for sharing or enjoying while walking around the neighborhood. While the Abeno Potato is the main draw, reviewers also recommend the “100-Day Potato” (100日ポテト), a bag of ultra-thin, crispy fried sticks finished with a savory-sweet kelp salt powder that many find addictive.
Be aware that this is not the crunchy, hard-caramel style of candied potato; a few visitors expecting a crispy shell found the texture too soft. Occasional reviews mention a hard batch of other potato snacks or perfunctory counter service, but these are exceptions. Most agree the quality is remarkably consistent.
The shop offers excellent value. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥330–¥380 for a small walk-around cup of the signature Abeno Potato, and about ¥450 for a small pack. Other items like the “100-Day Potato” sticks ranged from ¥378 to ¥622. Given the quality and distinctive preparation, most find the prices very reasonable.
- Location: In the Abeno district of Osaka, just a one-minute walk from Abeno Station.
- Booking: Not required. This is a walk-up takeout counter.
- Seating: Takeout only, with no seating available.
- Payment: QR code payments (PayPay) are accepted. Credit cards and electronic money are not. It's wise to bring cash.
- Practical Tips: The snacks are best eaten the same day they are purchased. The shop can sell out of popular items towards the end of the day. Various sizes are available, from small cups for sampling to larger gift boxes.
- Parking: Not available.
