More About Japan 
This article is based on a visit in 2012.
Fukuoka is famous for its culinary delights—ramen, motsunabe hot pot, mizutaki chicken broth, fresh seafood—but one surprisingly under-the-radar dish nationwide is Hakata’s bite-sized gyoza cooked in a cast-iron skillet.
One of the most well-known places to try this local specialty is “Hakata Gion Tetsunabe”.
You’ll find other “Tetsunabe” restaurants in Nakasu and Kokura, suggesting that these mini gyoza are a major force in Fukuoka cuisine.
Among them, “Hakata Gion Tetsunabe” stands out for both its signature gyoza and its bold, character-filled atmosphere.
The Interior of “Hakata Gion Tetsunabe” Is Packed with Celebrity Photos and Autographs
Here’s the storefront of “Hakata Gion Tetsunabe,” with its striking red curtain signage.
We visited on a Friday night, and the place was buzzing with customers—but luckily, a table opened up just in time.
The walls are absolutely plastered with autographs, celebrity photos, and scrolls.
You can’t find an empty spot on the wall—it’s wild.
There were seven of us, and just as we sat down, a server came over asking,
“How about 15 portions to start?”
We had already eaten quite a bit earlier at a first-round spot, so we hesitated, replying,
“Um, we already ate a little…”
To which the server responded,
“Then maybe just 10 portions?”
Definitely a pushy style. Actually, the whole restaurant has that intense, high-energy vibe.
We caved and ordered 10 portions of grilled gyoza.
Crispy All Over! These Bite-Sized Gyoza Are Perfect with Beer
Let’s switch gears—first, a beer to start!
The starter dish was vinegar-marinated pork tripe—a local classic with a reliable flavor.
Here they are—the famous iron-skillet gyoza! What you see here is 5 portions, totaling 40 pieces.
Just like the walls, the gyoza are packed in tightly. A glorious sight.
Feel free to use dipping sauce, chili oil, or yuzu kosho to your taste.
Since they’re small, I went for two at a time!
Most gyoza are crispy only on one side or slightly chewy, but these are crispy all over.
It’s rare to get that full crunch even with skillet-cooked gyoza. Delicious!
A High-Energy Atmosphere—Not for Lingering, but Great for a Quick Bite
As mentioned earlier, the staff here are pretty assertive, and with the constant stream of customers and the crowded decor, the vibe is very lively—borderline chaotic.
Personally, this is the kind of place I’d recommend for a quick in-and-out visit. Come for the beer, gyoza, and lively atmosphere, then move on.
That said, the ultra-crispy gyoza and the unique atmosphere really make this place one of a kind. If that’s your vibe, you’ll love it.
The shop is near Gion Station, just one stop from Hakata Station.
If this piques your curiosity, why not drop by to experience the gyoza and the vibe firsthand?
