KARLSBALLS

332 Riverside Dr, New York
(856) 506-4001

Recent Reviews

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Iffy Eats

Karl is an absolute sweetheart, and his entire team is just as kind! Every time I stop by, they’re so accommodating and always happy to take the time to explain what Karl’s Balls really is (and make you laugh in the process). The takoyaki is fresh, flavorful, and made with so much care, you can taste the love in every bite. Whether you’re a first-timer or a loyal fan, you’ll always feel welcome here!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

yu sa

This is the real Osaka-style takoyaki!!

I grew up in Osaka, the birthplace of takoyaki. In Osaka, we enjoy takoyaki both at restaurants and at home. In recent years, it’s become possible to find takoyaki in New York as well—but many places serve the Tokyo-style deep-fried version, and I often thought, “This just isn’t it…”
One day, I came across Karlsballs’ takoyaki at Japan Fes. The outside was soft and fluffy, while the inside was creamy and gooey—this was unmistakably Osaka-style takoyaki! I couldn’t believe I was eating this in New York. I was both surprised and delighted. It was so delicious that before I knew it, I had finished the entire plate.

If you want to experience authentic Osaka takoyaki, I highly recommend trying this. Just a note: because Osaka-style takoyaki has a molten, creamy center, it can be very hot inside. When eating it fresh, I suggest breaking it open with chopsticks first to let some heat escape before taking a bite.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Simon Raymundo

🔥 takoyaki! Whenever I see the yellow tent with during a street fair, I make my way over to get some.

Love the flavor and texture! Don't get fooled by the other places that sell you frozen takoyaki. Nothing beats freshly made!

Warning: they are hot inside! Poke a hole and let it cool down a little 🥵

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Keizo Shimamoto

Love Karl’s Balls. Perfect texture with a creamy center. If you’ve never had traditional authentic Takoyaki then you’re lucky to have had Karl’s Balls in your mouth. Don’t settle for those deep fried cake balls.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Guary Rodriguez

My first trying and wow !! If you haven't tried it yet, do yourself the favor and go ASAP ! AMAZING

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

David Bouhadana

I love Takoyaki! I tried it in Osaka for the first time and have been on the hunt ever since. Most places do a decent job with the little setup but Karl’s Balls (love saying that name) brings Osaka to you! Full set up! Full show and full of flavor. His team is serious about the product, and very educational. They explained how they poach the octopus offsite, portion it, and then the batter. The taste is just like Japan, dare I say better?! Super cool tent, team and name! Wish they had a permanent spot, check out his instagram for recipes and monthly schedule. Truely a master of his craft, made with love and passion!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Izakaya Juraku

If you like your ballz moist, Karl is your guy!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Carlos Solorzano

We had Karl and Karlballs at one of our events at the @northeast_rhd meet; the quality and products were the best. Don't hesitate to try authentic Japanese food!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jeff Tan

Proper takoyaki literally made by hand and grilled on imported Japanese grills. A must try at any food festivals where you see the yellow tent!

Food: 5

Rich H

I’ve had Karl’s balls on multiple occasions and it hits the spot every time I get it especially when I’m starving on the day of Japanfes!!. Karl’s absolutely awesome at his craft but he’s also a great guy!!. If you’re ever at Japanfes or wherever they pop up make sure you stop at Karl’s balls takoyaki tell em Rich sent you thank me later!! 😎👊🔥

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

索朗傑佈

i order one from Mitsuwas summer fest,the middle of the ball is still liquid. never had octopus ball like this nasty~!

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 1

Service: 2

stan

Like being back in Osaka! These balls are legit. The gooey inside is exactly right.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Ruquyya Abdul-Mubdi

Tried at a food festival. I’ve never had this food before I wouldn’t try it again feels raw in the mouth but good flavor.

Food: 2

Service: 4

Andy Phuong

Was at the park slope food fair and I saw this amazing stall and everything looked amazing and smelled great so I went and asked the cashiers to make me their best selling product and I was not disappointed at all. Customer service was top notch. I will be back here again for the next food fest.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

MI Google Account

I am fan of Karls Ball Takoyaki. It genuinely impressed and the real Takoyaki! The takoyaki were freshly cooked, not reheated or frozen like you often find elsewhere. You can really taste the difference — the outside was perfectly crisp while the inside stayed soft and gooey, just how real takoyaki should be. Each bite was packed with flavor, and the generous toppings made it even better. If you're looking for an authentic takoyaki experience, Karls Ball is definitely worth it!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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