El Alma

El Alma is one of those few places in Osaka where it's acceptable to order a glass of wine or a cold beer at 3 pm. In fact, it's highly encouraged. The chef, who fell in love with Spanish cuisine, draws inspiration from his numerous trips to the country. His menu is an exploration of the nation’s regional cooking. The rum cake, which he insists on pairing with coffee, channels the soul of the Basque Country. The huevos rotos — half-fried eggs over French fires — is a breakfast staple in Madrid and the Canary Islands, while the tapas like mushroom ajilo arrive sizzling in a cazuela (heat-resistant ceramic pot) typical of the southern region. Some things, however, are pan-national favorites, like the mussels steamed with white wine and seasoned simply with salt, bay leaves and garlic, or the Jamon Iberico ham. The paella becomes a dish best shared with friends, and the variety takes a creative turn with toppings like the Hakodate blue crab. To dine like a true Spaniard, follow the chef's advice: enjoy a lazy lunch over a glass of wine on the terrace over quintessential home-cooked Spanish fares.