Osaka, Okonomiyaki & Networking
Eat, Drink & Succeed Around the World:
Where culture, conversation, and connection
turn travel into opportunity
Chicago, IL — Internationally renowned speaker and author of Eat, Drink & Succeed, Laura Schwartz brings her signature approach to connection and leadership to a global series, Eat, Drink & Succeed Around the World, created for modern travelers, leaders, and cultural connectors.
The ability to Eat, Drink & Succeed transcends borders — and in Japan, it is refined into an art form.
Here, presence is the differentiator, turning shared moments into lasting partnerships and thoughtful ideas into action and that’s what we are doing here, together throughout the country.
NEXT STOP: Osaka, Japan
In Osaka, Japan, some of the most meaningful business connections don’t happen in boardrooms or at conference centers — they happen over shared plates, sips, and laughter. Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka has mastered the art of turning meals into moments of trust, curiosity, and genuine human connection. In a culture where hospitality is intentional and conversation flows as naturally as the food, networking becomes less about exchanging business cards and more about sharing presence. In this installment of Eat, Drink & Succeed Around the World, we explore how the city’s vibrant culinary scene — from savory okonomiyaki to welcoming taverns — offers a blueprint for building real relationships that lead to real success.
Pull up a chair and join me as we Eat, Drink & Succeed in Osaka, Japan.
Legendary Okonomiyaki at
Okaru, Osaka
If you’re looking for a place that effortlessly breaks the ice, Okaru is it. The atmosphere creates an instant point of connection, and the interactive service gives you something shared to talk about, laugh about, and build rapport around. When networking feels less like work and more like enjoyment, real relationships begin—and sometimes, that’s exactly what success looks like.
You see, at Okaru, okonomiyaki isn’t just a dish — it’s theater, tradition, and hospitality rolled into one unforgettable experience. Often called the home of okonomiyaki, Okaru has earned its legendary status by serving the beloved Osaka specialty tableside, where anticipation builds as much as flavor.
Described as a “savory pancake,” okonomiyaki is built around a simple, adaptable base: finely shredded cabbage folded into a light batter, then customized to your liking (that’s what okonomi means) with ingredients such as pork belly, seafood, scallions, or noodles. It’s cooked on a hot teppan grill, usually right at the table, turning the meal into a moment of theater and connection.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is lively yet intimate, filled with the comforting sounds of sizzling batter and warm conversation. Guests gather around hot griddles as skilled servers prepare each okonomiyaki right in front of them, deftly layering cabbage, batter, seafood or meat, and finishing it with signature sauces and a flourish of bonito flakes that dance with the heat. There’s a sense of ceremony to it — casual, joyful, and deeply Osaka.
Conversation
What makes Okaru special is its spirit of welcome. Tableside cooking naturally invites conversation, laughter, and shared curiosity, turning strangers into companions over a shared griddle. It’s food meant to be experienced together, unrushed and unpretentious, reflecting Osaka’s reputation as Japan’s kitchen and its people’s love of good food and good company.
What to Order
Okaru offers a variety of okonomiyaki options featuring pork, seafood, shrimp, squid, or combinations of ingredients. Menus typically include photos or English descriptions, making it easy to point to what appeals to you. If you’re unsure, choosing a mixed okonomiyaki is a great place to start. I not only had the okonomiyaki but I ordered the squid which they sear in front of you and serve up with lemon. It was delicious and a fun experience.
Why it Works
If you’re looking at a place that breaks the ice of any conversation, this place allows you the opportunity to use the atmosphere to start a conversation and the service allows for more to talk about, laugh about and overall just enjoy. Sometimes enjoyment is just what its all about! At Okaru, okonomiyaki is more than a meal — it’s a front-row seat to local culture, where flavor, craftsmanship, and connection come together in the most delicious way possible.
About Laura Schwartz
Professional Emcee, Moderator, Keynote Speaker, and Author Laura Schwartz knows how to make live events succeed. Whether hosting a global convention, moderating high-stakes conversations, or delivering a keynote on leadership and connection, Laura brings experience, energy, and authenticity to every stage. A former White House Director of Events under the Clinton Administration, she has been named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the Global Events Industry for seven consecutive years (2019–2025). Along with her cast at ITV London, Laura and her team won the prestigious Drum Awards “Podcast of the Year” in 2021.
For more information on Laura Schwartz or to inquire about hosting, moderating, or keynote engagements, please contact Ashley Brooks at ashley@lauraschwartzlive.com or 312-767-7415.