Tabelog ratingKirin (キリン) is a small, bustling counter restaurant in Sapporo’s Tanukikoji Market that has earned a reputation for one thing: exceptional gyoza. The main draw is the open kitchen, where staff roll dough and stuff plump dumplings to order. The result is a perfectly executed pan-fried gyoza with a crunchy, golden-brown base, a chewy skin, and a juicy, vegetable-forward filling.
While gyoza are the star, reviewers consistently praise other small plates. The steamed xiao long bao are noted for being particularly juicy, and popular side dishes include Taiwanese-style braised pork rice (rōrōhan), stir-fried water spinach, and garlic-cilantro rice noodles (bīfūn). Many guests feel the dumplings alone are worth booking a table for.
However, visitors should be aware of the restaurant's notoriously strict house rules and service quirks. Many non-Japanese reviewers report being turned away at the door. Other common complaints include a rigid two-hour seating limit, long waits for food (30–60 minutes for gyoza is common), a cramped and hot interior, and slow service. Smoking is also permitted.
Dinner typically costs between ¥3,000 and ¥3,999. Reviewers in 2024 paid around ¥850 for an 8-piece gyoza portion and ¥1,550 for 15 pieces, while five xiao long bao cost about ¥1,250. A mandatory appetizer (otoshi) of ¥350 is also charged. Despite the service issues, most agree that the food offers excellent value for its quality and generous portions.
- Reservations: Booking is essential and can be difficult. Reservations are accepted by phone only, for two or more people. Seating is often managed in strict two-hour shifts (e.g., 5 PM, 7 PM, 9 PM).
- Access: Some foreign visitors and solo diners have reported being refused service, so walk-in access is highly unpredictable. Be sure to confirm whether your booking is for the main counter or the nearby annex.
- Age Restriction: Entry is not permitted for minors, as smoking is allowed throughout the restaurant.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Getting There: Located in Tanukikoji Market, a short walk from Shiseikan Shogakko Mae station.
- Practicalities: Expect a long wait for your gyoza to be cooked. Drinks are often self-serve from a fridge. The space is small, and smoking is permitted.
