Pizzeria da Tigre — Restaurant in Osaka

I wasn’t planning to write this review, as Pizzeria da Tigre is one of those rare gems in Osaka I would rather keep just for myself. But as an Italian, I feel a duty to recognize restaurants outside of Italy that manage to deliver truly authentic food.

Pizzeria da Tigre is a fantastic Italian pizzeria in Osaka, serving a range of pizzas from the classic margherita and marinara to other creative options, including their special “Pizza Attilio.” They accept only cash (so be prepared), and you order food and drinks through the typical vending machine at the entrance. They offer both dine-in and takeout.

I ordered a margherita (1000 yen) and a San Benedetto sparkling water (500 yen). It was a perfect combination: the pizza dough was excellent and cooked to perfection, while the tomato and mozzarella melted in my mouth with the subtle salty touch of grana cheese. The gentle scent of wood smoke coming from the oven, paired with the familiar Italian photos around, made me feel immediately at home—even without having to close my eyes.

This is rare outside of Italy, but when it happens, you know you have found something truly special. There was a quiet joy in each bite, the kind that makes you slow down and appreciate the simple miracle of good ingredients, care, and fire coming together.

Pizzeria da Tigre is not just a place to eat; it is a reminder that great food can carry you home, even when you are far away. So, despite wanting to keep it hidden, I can’t help but recommend this fantastic spot if you want to try a truly great pizza in an Italian atmosphere—right...

We've had great pizza all over the world and we were a little unsure of how pizza in Japan would compare. We chose Pizzeria da Tigre based on the Michelin recommendation and we were glad we did. Our pizzas were excellent! The crust was perfect with authentic Italian flavour and perfect wood fired char. We enjoyed the Pizza Attilio - so much so that we ordered an extra one to share after finishing our first two pizzas. The service was quick and effecient but there was very minimal interaction with customers. The chef/owner was focused on preparing and expertly cooking the food and the one server ensured our water glasses remained full but she didn't seem to interact more than absolutely necessary with the customers. Overall this was a five out of five for us because the pizza was fantastic, but it would have been nice to have a smile or a little more service...

The interior of the restaurant is elegant and simple, the music is relaxing and it is definitely a nice date place, Prices between affordable and average The base sauce of the margerita was good, the tomatoes felt fresh, the base sauce was very successful, the mozzarella was also very tasty, it could be increased a little more than the sauce. The slightly sooty smell of the wood fire permeates the pizza and enhances its flavor, (-) The fermentation of the dough was insufficient for me, it makes a slight bloating after eating and the edges of the pizza are not puffed up enough and there are not enough pores, otherwise it was very successful, I will come back to try another pizza. I can't say it was the best in Osaka but it was a good.

Lastly, the oil was a bit lacking, they only offer one oil, pure olive oil and basil or oregano flavored oil...