Tsu Gyoza in Tsu City

Tsu gyoza is a local specialty born in Tsu City, the capital of Mie Prefecture. Its defining feature is wrapping the filling in a large wrapper about fifteen centimeters across and deep frying it in plenty of oil. Originally devised as a school lunch menu item that delighted children, its nostalgic taste stayed beloved into adulthood and spread to become a town specialty. The combination of a crisp wrapper and juicy filling makes it wonderfully satisfying.

Highlights

Restaurants across Tsu serve their own carefully crafted versions of Tsu gyoza. The basic filling is pork and vegetables, but some shops offer distinctive twists such as cheese or curry flavor. Bite into a piping hot, freshly fried one and the fragrant, crisp wrapper and the savory, juicy filling fill your mouth. Even one piece has plenty of volume, making it a hearty dish.

Enjoying the Seasons

Tsu gyoza can be enjoyed year round. Eaten hot and fresh from the fryer, it is especially warming in the cold months. At local events and festivals, Tsu gyoza stalls sometimes appear, so you can enjoy it casually while strolling the town.

Access and Basic Information

Tsu City is reached via Tsu Station on the Kintetsu and JR lines, with good access from the Nagoya direction. Many shops around the city serve Tsu gyoza, making it well suited to a tasting walk.

A Quick Tip

Because it is a large gyoza, it is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the fryer. Sharing among a group to compare flavors from different shops is also recommended.