Alright, so let me tell you about this place, Chao Chao over in Sanjo Kiyamachi. I found myself wandering around that area the other evening. You know how Kiyamachi-dori can be, pretty lively, especially when folks are out looking for a bite to eat. I was getting properly hungry, and to be honest, I was just in the mood for something simple and satisfying.
I’d walked past Chao Chao a few times before, always seemed busy. This time, I figured, why not? Gyoza sounded like just the ticket. From the outside, it’s nothing fancy, pretty unassuming really. Just your typical-looking gyoza joint, but sometimes those are the hidden gems, or at least, reliable spots.
So, I went in. And yeah, it was buzzing. Definitely not the place for a quiet, sit-down-and-ponder-life kind of meal. It was loud, full of people chatting and the clatter of dishes, and that unmistakable smell of gyoza cooking. You know, that slightly oily, savory smell that gets your appetite going.
Managed to grab a spot at the counter. I don’t mind the counter, actually. You get to see the cooks doing their thing, which can be quite a show sometimes. They handed me a menu, and it was pretty much gyoza, gyoza, and more gyoza. They had the classic ones, of course, but then a whole bunch of other types. Some with shrimp, some with cheese, even some spicy ones. It was a bit overwhelming, but in a good way.
I decided to try a couple of different kinds. Couldn’t pass up their signature “Chao Chao gyoza,” those long, stick-like ones that come all connected. Then I got a plate of the standard pork ones, just for a baseline, you know? And, yeah, I also ordered some with onion and mayo – sounded a bit out there, but I was feeling adventurous.
The food came out pretty fast, which I appreciated. The long gyoza were crispy and fun to eat, kind of like breaking off pieces of a gyoza puzzle. The classic ones were solid. Good juicy filling, nice crispy bottom. The onion mayo ones? They were surprisingly tasty, actually. A bit rich, but a nice change from the usual.
Washed it all down with a beer. Gyoza and beer, it’s a classic combination for a reason, isn’t it? Just works.
The vibe in there was very energetic. Staff were shouting orders back and forth to the kitchen, servers weaving through the tables. It’s one of those places where you eat, have a quick chat if you’re with mates, and then you’re on your way. Not much dawdling.
When the bill came, it was pretty reasonable. Definitely didn’t feel like I’d spent a fortune for what I got. Just a good, solid meal that didn’t break the bank.
So, that’s my take on Chao Chao in Sanjo Kiyamachi. It’s not gourmet dining by any stretch. But if you’re after a load of different gyoza, a lively, no-frills atmosphere, and a quick, tasty feed, it does the job well. I’d probably pop in again if I was in the area and had a hankering for dumplings. Simple as that, really.
