If you’re in the mood for Chinese-style dumplings (gyoza), Harajuku Gyoza Lou (原宿餃子楼) in Harajuku is the place for you. It’s good, cheap, and located just off of the intersection of Meiji Dori and the main boulevard (Route 413) that cuts through Omotesando.
The gyoza are available fried or boiled, and while both are very good, I favor the fried version. The fried gyoza also comes in a garlic flavor that I highly recommend. A set of six is a cheap 290 yen, though you’ll probably end up getting multiple orders by the time you’re done, especially if you’re there with a group. Somehow, there always seems to be more room in one’s stomach for gyoza.
Harajuku Gyoza Lou also has some simple but good side dishes to on with the dumplings. For example, there’s bean sprouts (moyashi) topped with a spicy Chinese-style meat sauce which I highly recommend. There’s also cucumbers in miso paste, pickled cabbage, and big bowl of rice that comes with a delightful broth. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a big mug if beer.
Harajuku Gyoza Lou is a popular place, so do expect a line. But it’s definitely worth the wait.
Harajuku Gyoza Lou Location: 6−2−4 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo Business Hours: Monday-Saturday 11:30am-4:30am; Sunday 11:30am-10:00pm Getting There: Take the Tokyo Metro (Chiyoda or Futokoshin lines) to Meijijingumae Station. Harajuku Gyoza Lou is about a 2 minute walk away. Take Exit 4, walk across Meiji Dori along Route 413 and turn right at the alley just before you reach Kiddy Land. Walk down the alley until you reach an intersection, and the restaurant will be at the corner on your right.
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