We had been planning to visit this place for a while and since we both had a day off, we decided to catch the train down to the Valley and treat ourselves to some afternoon beers and a few Japanese dumplings at
Harajuku Gyoza.

Photo Courtesy of Harajuku Gyoza
Since we were only there for a snack, we opted for a variety of their signature dish and namesake, gyoza. After a plate full of salted
Edamame, we scoffed down servings of
Grilled Prawn, Duck and
Lobster varieties of the dumplings which were washed down with glasses of Kirin beer.
There were so many other things on the menu which we would like to try next time when we go with a group of friends to share the plates.
Pork Belly Kakuni and
Tempura Egglant will definitely be on the list along with
Tebasaki Wings and
Chicken Karaage which we can finish off with the dessert
Salted Caramel Gyoza w Ice Cream.
Harajuku Gyoza - Photo by Kath Chown
Harajuku Gyoza - Photo by Kath Chown
The decor is reminiscent of Japanese restaurants with its dark wood panelling and kitsch wall hangings of plates and brightly coloured artworks. After visiting the ladies room, I hurried back to my table to tell my husband about the hilarious Japanese electronic toilet which I had been too scared to test.
The staff were friendly and attentive and we were really happy with the service. We sat in a window booth and it was a nice viewing platform to watch the world go by as we whiled away our afternoon.

Harajuku Gyoza - Photo by Kath Chown
We were told by the manager as we were leaving that a new Harajuku Gyoza had opened up inside Indooroopilly Shopping Centre which may end up being closer to us. However, I really enjoyed being in the standalone restaurant in the Valley, where you can be entirely enveloped in the culture and experience of the restaurant.
I really loved my experience here and can't wait to return, perhaps at a busier time, to be part of what I could imagine would be a fun and high-energy atmosphere.

Harajuku Gyoza - Photo by Kath Chown