KARLSBALLS

Yesss Karl’s Balls finally we got to try them! Unable to catch them in last years Japan fest because of the line line. We were able to try them this years Japan fest! 🇯🇵 These balls are called takoyaki. Karl has appeared on tv several times including Buzzfeed Tasty, Vice Channel, The Food Film Festival, Cooking Channel, and so many more! His mission is to bring Konamon culture to the west through the preparation of real Osaka-style takoyaki.

Best Takoyaki place! I’ve tried all 3 takoyaki and it’s all good. They always have a long line but it’s worth it.
You should try if you love Japanese food🫶🏻

Absolutely amazing and authentic takoyaki. Find them at any chance in any food fairs / Japanese festival all across the city. The tako (octopus) is definitely the highlight which most people overlook when it comes to the takoyaki. You can taste the effort that was put into preparing the fresh octopus along with a flavorful and well prepared batter to make the takoyaki fresh off the grill.

The staff and the owners are probably one of the most friendly people you will come across in the city. The level of pressure on serving hundreds of customers back to back for many hours by the team and the owner alone is impressive. Not only they are laser focus in preparing the food, they are also well aware of each and every customer on the line and provide detailed explanations and friendly chit-chat while the takoyakis are prepared right in front of you.

If you are expecting quick and fast reheated frozen takoyaki from casual Japanese restaurant then don't get on the line, it is a food fair, not a full service restaurant (and yes, you know who you are). If you are planning to visit Karl's balls, then expect a wait line because they ARE the most recognizable novelty name in New York's Takoyaki scene.

Had KARLSBALLS Takoyaki multiple times at multiple conventions. Tried the original and Negi-mayo options and both were excellent, with that signature outer crunch and tender interior. Always a blast watching the staff work their magic, with the balls cooking directly front and center, handing them fresh off the grill.

Tried their 'Karl's Ball Sauce' as well, and it truly lives up to its label of "It goes on everything". Also the 'Hot As Balls' sauce is no joke, packing as much heat as it does flavorful, tangy goodness.

2nd time trying their takoyaki. First time was at NYCC 2021 and it was wonderful, tasted just like the ones I had in Osaka Japan. Had them again at the Japanfest in Chelsea and they were tasty. The staff are always wonderful, patient, cheery; always a wonderful experience to watch them work the grills! Its incredible watching the entire process right before you and which gives an even greater appreciation when taking every bite! Highly recommend trying whenever in NYC and in the mood for FRESH takoyaki.