🟠 Local-First — Hakata’s bite-size gyoza at a true old-timer: Asahiken.
Small, crisp, and built for “one more plate.” Asahiken represents Hakata’s snackable gyoza culture—different from Tokyo’s meal-sized style—and is best enjoyed across a couple of quick rounds.
Last updated: 2025-11-09
Introduction
Asahiken is a long-running gyoza counter near Hakata Station, serving bite-size dumplings since the postwar era. The format is simple: thin skins, light garlic, and a seared bottom that stays crisp. In Fukuoka, gyoza evolved as a bar snack rather than a main dish—designed to pair with a drink and to order in multiples.
What to Try
Bite-size grilled gyoza (10 pieces) — crackly base, juicy filling. One plate disappears fast; two plates per person isn’t unusual. Keep the dipping sauce light so the browned aroma leads: start with vinegar, add a touch of soy, then a little chili oil.
How to Order
Order at the counter by saying, “One plate of bite-size gyoza, please.” Add a second plate if you’re still hungry—servings come quickly. For a local pairing, try an imo shochu highball (shochu with soda): the bubbles cut through the crispy fat and lift the roasted aroma better than beer for many locals.
Tokyo or Trip?
🟠 Local-First — Experience Hakata’s “snack-style” gyoza culture where it began.
Tokyo has great gyoza, but Fukuoka’s bite-size format, counter pace, and drink-first rhythm are the point of the experience. Come to Hakata, order a plate (then another), and taste the regional style as locals do.
Explore Nearby
- Hakata Ramen — Silky Tonkotsu 🍜
- Goma Saba — Sesame Mackerel 🐟
- Hakata Ika Sashimi — Transparent Squid 🦑
- Turkish Rice in Nagasaki 🍽️
- Kurobuta Tonkatsu in Kagoshima 🐖
Similar Dishes
- Hamamatsu Gyoza — Light & Local-First 🥟
- Utsunomiya Gyoza — Dumpling Crawl 🥟
- Kitakata Ramen at Ban Nai 🍜