Rakuen

At Rakuen, the appeal lies in the different flavours and textures of Korean rice cakes. The selection may include azuki, mugwort, nutritious and pumpkin rice cakes, in sizes ranging from bite-sized sweets to larger cakes for sharing. One visitor bought around three varieties that looked like three-colour dango. One had a thin layer of something like peanut paste inside, and all were only mildly sweet. These are a good choice when you want to savour the flavour of the rice cakes themselves, rather than something intensely sweet.

Visitors have also reported trying seolgi, made with rice flour, in pumpkin, purple sweet potato, mugwort and plain flavours. Its texture falls somewhere between a rice cake and a steamed bun, with just a hint of sweetness. Depending on whether you prefer a heartier, rice-cake-like bite or something lighter, you might choose it over other Korean rice cakes. One person who bought sirutteok was struck by its mild sweetness and softness. Another found the mugwort sirutteok dry, so it is worth bearing in mind that textures can vary by type. You can eat in or take your order away.

Rakuen is in Higashikobashi, Higashinari Ward, Osaka City. Payment is cash only, so bring cash if you plan to take home a few different treats.