Menu of Osaka in State College, Pennsylvania, USA

Menu Overview

Osaka, located at 450 E College Ave in State College, PA, offers a vivid taste of Japanese cuisine with a focus on both traditional and innovative dishes. As a food reviewer for Menufyy, I found the menu well-curated, showcasing a blend of classic flavors and creative rolls that cater to sushi lovers and hibachi enthusiasts alike.

The menu highlights, such as the Chicken Hibachi and Crab Rangoon, provide a solid introduction to the kitchen's ability to balance authenticity with accessible flavors. The Miso Soup and Edamame serve as comforting starters, embodying the subtle umami characteristic of Japanese cuisine. The Sashimi Sampler is particularly impressive, featuring fresh cuts that reveal the chef’s commitment to quality seafood.

One of Osaka’s standout offerings is the range of house specialty rolls available all day. The Rainbow Roll, elegantly layered with tuna, salmon, striped bass, cucumber, and avocado, captures a colorful medley of flavors and textures. The Dragon Roll combines eel and cucumber, topped with avocado and masago, delivering a rich, savory bite. For those with a penchant for heat, the Salmon Lover Roll brings together spicy salmon and cucumber, topped with more salmon and spicy mayo, creating a balanced yet fiery experience.

The Pink Lady Roll, rolled in pink soy paper and topped with eel sauce, wasabi aioli, and spicy mayo, is a creative fusion of flavors that showcases Osaka’s flair for innovation. Lunch specials like the Eastern Roll and the Double Happiness roll offer tempting options, featuring tempura textures and creamy elements that complement the fresh seafood brilliantly.

Beyond sushi, the inclusion of steamed dishes such as Steamed Chicken Broccoli and Steamed Shrimp Broccoli with the choice of white or brown rice emphasizes the restaurant’s nod to Chinese health-inspired cuisine, providing balance to a menu that might otherwise lean heavily on fried components.

While the overall ambiance at Osaka has shifted to takeout only, with no dine-in service, the cleanliness and prompt service underpin a practical dining experience. A recent comment from a customer highlighted that the hibachi felt similar to regular fried rice and was considered pricey relative to the food’s quality. Such feedback is worth noting — while the menu offers diversity and highlights fresh ingredients, there may be room for refinement in the execution and value perception.

In summary, Osaka presents a diverse Japanese culinary journey with a focus on quality seafood, inventive rolls, and health-conscious options, albeit exclusively through takeout. For those craving fresh sashimi or specialty rolls with layered flavors and appealing presentation, Osaka is a convenient and reliable destination in State College. The menu’s thoughtful mix of tradition and creativity makes it a noteworthy option, particularly for sushi aficionados seeking fresh, visually striking, and flavorful dishes.