Curry topped with gyoza dumplings—a combination that's part of everyday food culture for the people of Sapporo, thanks to Miyoshino, a gyoza and curry specialty restaurant founded in 1967. Their gyoza, in particular, is a familiar taste for Sapporo residents, available for dine-in, take-out, and even as chilled products. But their classic menu isn't just about gyoza and curry! Miyoshino's offerings vary by location (especially at roadside stores), boasting a diverse and unique lineup. This time, a local writer will introduce six recommended dishes from their varied menu, including some limited-time items.

"Gyoza Curry" 660 yen

When you think of Miyoshino, the first thing that comes to mind is the "Gyoza Curry." You can choose between two types of curry roux: mild or spicy. The mild roux has a deep, gentle sweetness from ingredients like vegetables and chicken. The spicy version adds a sharp kick to that base. The mellow flavor is said to be achieved by adding milk. The gyoza's presence is strong enough not to be overshadowed by the curry, yet they blend together perfectly—a taste you can only find at Miyoshino.

"Miyoshino Set" 780 yen

If you want to enjoy the gyoza on their own as well, the "Miyoshino Set" is highly recommended. The gyoza are served on a separate plate, so you can enjoy half with the dipping sauce and the other half "on the curry."

"Shoyu Ramen" 680 yen *Limited to select stores

The house-made, medium-thin curly noodles are chewy with a perfect firmness. The light yet flavorful soup clings to them well, making you want to drink every last drop. In an era of rising ramen prices, it's a great bonus that it comes with two slices of chashu pork at this price! It also comes with seasonings to add richness and an shrimp-flavored powder, so you can enjoy changing up the flavor.

Other options like Shio Ramen and Curry Ramen are also available

"Shumai Teishoku Tonjiru" (Shumai Set Meal with Pork Miso Soup) 980 yen *Limited to select stores

Gyoza's cousin (?), shumai, is also a masterpiece. The flour, onions, scallops, and pork are all 100% Hokkaido-sourced. The filling is packed tightly and has a rich flavor, making you want to devour it with a bowl of freshly cooked rice. By the way, the set meals come with pickles, which are free to refill.

This shumai would also go great with beer. Chilled versions are sold in supermarkets too.

"Mapo Tofu" 520 yen (à la carte) *Available for a limited time at select stores

A staple of Chinese cuisine alongside gyoza, Miyoshino's "Mapo Tofu" is a meaty dish with a concentrated flavor of minced pork. The balance between the heat of chili peppers and the numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns is excellent, and its rich aroma makes you crave a beer. The tofu has a chewy yet smooth texture, soaking up all the deliciousness of the sauce. A set meal is available for 1,180 yen.

"Tonjiru" 300 yen (à la carte) *Limited to select stores

Believe it or not, Miyoshino's tonjiru comes with a whole boiled egg inside (even Hokkaido locals are surprised by this). It's a hearty soup packed with generously cut ingredients like pork belly, onions, carrots, and konjac. The boiled egg undoubtedly adds to its satisfying volume. The key is to let the yolk soak up the soup before eating it.

"Katsu Curry" 830 yen *Limited to select stores

While plain curry and gyoza curry are available at all locations, some stores offer a variety of other toppings. The lineup is extensive, including long sausages, ham katsu, fried shrimp, and even fried Atka mackerel. The Katsu Curry, in particular, offers great value for its price.

"Omiyage Gyoza" (Take-out Gyoza) 12 pieces for 680 yen

Many Sapporo residents probably get Miyoshino's gyoza to-go to enjoy at home. In fact, for some, take-out is the main way they enjoy it. It's supposedly not uncommon to see business travelers who came to Sapporo getting gyoza to-go to enjoy with a can of beer in their hotel room.

"Miyoshino Bento" 790 yen

The filling is made with vegetables, egg, and plenty of pork, seasoned with a secret blend of spices. Wrapped in a chewy, thin skin, the gyoza maintain their springy texture even when cold or reheated. Of course, they're best when freshly cooked, but perhaps the charm of Miyoshino's gyoza is that they're delicious no matter when you eat them. Take-out is available at all stores.

※All prices include tax