I came to Numazu again in search of some escape.
But it is the third time already … I have gotten used to this town quite a lot. While wondering if this is the right time I check in at the hotel and watching the local TV, you get a sense that its neither a key station of Tokyo or Kansai based. This is the type escape I’m talking about.
Numazu seems famous for gyoza. I was only preoccupied by the seafood until now, but gyoza, why not?
So, looking at everyone's eating table entry, it seems the store named ‘Chuotei' is the best. When they’ve sold-out, they closed for the day. But anyway, as I headed over thinking to myself it is the evening, it would be fine, they were well and truly shut.
As I explored the surroundings stumped for what to do, a shop sign caught my eyes. "The same flavour at the same price as the main store!" Eh? Does that mean it is almost as appealing as the main store but not quite as delicious? So quickly went to investigate the main store, called ‘Yutakatei’.
It takes about 8 people at the counter with 2 four-seater tables. Although I was by myself, with a full counter, I go through to the table for the time being.
The salarymen on the next table both have gyoza, fried chicken and reba-nira. Gyoza and karaage must be a good combination, so order. “One order of Gyoza?” Naturally.
First, comes gyoza sauce, cucumbers pickles, green soybeans. Is the sauce large enough for a single serving?
I wait while picking at what comes out, and soon enough gyoza comes. Oh, maybe this is too small for one person. Five small gyoza. I eat in small amounts with plenty of sauce. good! Full of gyoza-like flavour, they’re above average. The feeling as it hit the tongue was the taste I wanted. Should I order more? No, let’s see how the karaage comes out.
Since the counter was empty, they suggest I perhaps move, and take a seat at the counter.
Then the gift of cold hiyayakko tofu comes out. This is an unexpected treat. There’s also a delicious tofu shop nearby? This store is something else.
Finally, it’s karaage. I can tell that it is delicious just by looking at it. It's a Chinese version of ‘Toyoda’ in Jiyugaoka, a crispy skin, and tender flesh, its beyond description. moisture, a brush. ‘Toyoda’ is definitely not ordinary.
I order a Hoppy. Already ice-cold, it comes without the ice. I also add lemon. Not bad. Works every time. If I sprinkle karaage with salt they’ll say “please say if you run out of sauce.” They think I’ve used too much?
The old man exclaiming “That’s good," gave me shishamo for some reason. No, it's a nice store. I will come again. Though I would like to have gyoza for three people next time.

Yutakatei
Shizuoka prefecture Numazu-shi hard place 135
055-951-1775