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In Shimbashi, Tokyo, you can find "Asiatic Cuisine Rengetsu," a Chinese restaurant led by a world champion chef who creates exceptional gyoza. It is ranked as the second-best gyoza spot in Tokyo and holds the number one position in the gyoza category in Roppongi-Nogizaka area on Tabelog. The restaurant has been extremely popular, earning awards in 2019 and 2021, and is known for being difficult to reserve. Founded ten years ago, a second location, "Asiatic Cuisine Shimbashi Rengetsu," is set to open in April 2024.
The restaurant is recommended by gourmet critic Watanabe from Anjash, and it has been featured on multiple television programs, including "Matsuko & Ariyoshi Karasome Tengoku" and "King's Brunch." Notable personalities like Akira Nakao and Takashi Ishibashi have praised it in various shows. Even Michelin Guide recognized it, with owner-sommelier Shingo Koike visiting privately.
Owner Shinagawa, in search of the ultimate gyoza, apprenticed for six years with a mentor at Hotel Sun Valley Nasu. He represented Japan at the World Culinary Competition in Singapore in 2012, becoming the world champion. Trained by a Chinese chef, he learned the art of dim sum, and the gyoza he encountered during his training inspired the current menu. Before opening his own restaurant at age 39, he spent six years honing his skills and business knowledge at a ramen shop.
With a deep love for gyoza and a passion for research, this small personal shop has only 10 seats and offers a limited menu of six handmade options. The standout dishes are handmade fried gyoza (pork) and handmade boiled gyoza (lamb), both highly praised.
The signature handmade fried gyoza costs ¥900, bursting with juicy meat that releases a delightful sweetness. These gyoza have increased in size from about 25g to 30g since opening.
The boiled gyoza, also priced at ¥900, reflects the time the chef spent in northeastern China, where he mastered the technique of preparing lamb dishes using shoulder and belly meat, seasoned before adding cilantro and green onions.
The special chili oil complements the gyoza, enhancing the dish's overall flavor profile. Made with 13 types of medicinal herbs, including star anise, Sichuan pepper, and ginger, along with oil infused with chili, green onions, and garlic, it elevates the dish to a unique culinary experience.
The cold soba with cod roe and dried scallops is another must-try at ¥1200, inspired by a dish prepared by a Chinese colleague during training. The mix of chilled noodles and hot toppings creates a delightful contrast, perfect for a satisfying finish.
Despite the modest space and common household kitchen equipment, this professional chef has reached the pinnacle of culinary success.
Where to find it? "Asiatic Cuisine Rengetsu" is located about a 4-minute walk from JR Shimbashi Station, or a 5-minute walk from the Shiomei-station exit of the Toei Oedo Line or Yurikamome.
[Info] Asiatic Cuisine Shimbashi Rengetsu, 4-21-8 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Opening hours: 17:00 to 23:30 (irregular holidays). Phone: 03-5422-1940.