Food & Drink

Get your Gyoza Fix at These 17 Must-Try Spots in San Diego!

San Diego is a food lover's paradise, and it's no secret that Japanese cuisine has taken the city by storm.

One of the most popular dishes to come out of Japan is gyoza, a type of dumpling that is both delicious and versatile. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a full meal, gyoza is the perfect option.

From traditional Japanese restaurants to trendy fusion spots, San Diego has a wide variety of places to choose from when it comes to gyoza.

Some restaurants serve them steamed, while others prefer to fry or pan-fry them. The fillings can range from classic pork and cabbage to more inventive options like chicken and shrimp.

While some restaurants specialize solely in gyoza, others serve them as a side dish or appetizer.

No matter where you go, however, one thing is for sure: the quality and flavor of the gyoza will be a reflection of the restaurant's commitment to excellence.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places to find gyoza in San Diego. From hole-in-the-wall spots to high-end restaurants, we'll cover a range of options to suit every taste and budget.

Whether you're a longtime fan of gyoza or are just discovering this delicious dish, you're sure to find something new and exciting on this list. So let's get started and dive into the world of San Diego's best gyoza!

1. Steamy Piggy

Steamy Piggy
4681 Convoy St # A, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Steamy Piggy is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for Asian eats and dumplings.

The chic vibe of this Asian-fusion spot will catch your eye with its pink walls and hanging planters. The staff is attentive and friendly, making your dining experience even better.

The menu offers a variety of options, including Piggy Bao, Bulgogi Fries, and Soup Dumplings. The flavors are spot on and will leave you wanting more.

If you're looking for a great spot for dumplings and Asian fusion cuisine, Steamy Piggy is definitely worth a visit.

2. Azuki Sushi Lounge

Azuki Sushi Lounge
2321 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Azuki Sushi Lounge is the perfect place to satisfy your craving for Japanese cuisine. With carefully sourced ingredients, their gyoza is a must-try.

The restaurant has a modern atmosphere, and the outdoor seating is a great option. The service is prompt, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu.

The sushi rolls are creative and flavorful, and the extensive sake menu complements the dishes perfectly.

Prices are fair for the quality of food and service. Make sure to visit Azuki Sushi Lounge for a gourmet Japanese culinary experience.

3. Chopstix

Chopstix
4633 Convoy St #101, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Chopstix is a cozy Japanese eatery that offers a wide variety of authentic Japanese dishes.

Their gyoza is a must-try, with a perfect balance of crispy and juicy. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable.

The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing excellent service. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

If you're craving Japanese comfort food, Chopstix is definitely worth a visit.

4. Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant
1790 W Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant is a family-owned place that serves traditional Japanese dishes and sushi.

The restaurant has been around for over 30 years and has consistently provided excellent food and service. The menu has a lot of variety, and the gyoza is a must-try.

The atmosphere is calm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Prices are reasonable, making it a great place for a casual meal.

Yoshino's is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for authentic and high-quality Japanese food.

5. Karami Ramen

Karami Ramen
3860 Convoy St #118, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Karami Ramen is a small Japanese restaurant that serves up some of the best gyoza in town.

The dumplings are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The dipping sauce is also spot on, with just the right amount of tanginess.

While the restaurant is known for its ramen, the gyoza is definitely worth a try.

The service is quick and friendly, and the prices are reasonable. If you're a fan of gyoza, make sure to stop by Karami Ramen.

6. Ichiban

Ichiban
1449 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Ichiban is a veteran Japanese eatery that offers a wide variety of delicious food options.

This place is perfect for anyone who is looking for a casual Japanese spot to grab lunch or dinner. They have bowls, bento boxes, and sushi, but the gyoza is a must-try.

The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is cozy, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a good meal.

Don't forget to check out their happy-hour specials on rolls and beer. If you're in the mood for authentic Japanese cuisine, then Ichiban is definitely worth a visit.

7. Riki Sushi

Riki Sushi
3930 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Riki Sushi is a must-visit spot for gyoza lovers. The food is fresh, delicious, and reasonably priced.

The sushi rolls are also highly recommended. The service is on par with most sushi restaurants, and the atmosphere is cozy and modern.

The restaurant offers a great selection of fresh sushi, and the specials are worth trying. The parking may be an issue, but it's worth the trip.

It's a great place to enjoy a quick meal or a night out with friends. Highly recommended!

8. Nozaru Ramen Bar

Nozaru Ramen Bar
3375 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

Nozaru Ramen Bar is a Japanese restaurant that offers delicious gyoza. The restaurant has a chill vibe and is decorated with funky art.

The staff is super friendly and attentive. They have a great selection of beers and sake.

Nozaru Ramen Bar also offers gluten-free ramen and sushi. The gyoza is amazing and is considered the best in town.

The restaurant has great veggie options too. It is definitely worth a visit if you are a fan of Japanese cuisine.

9. Shino Sushi + Kappo

Shino Sushi + Kappo
838 W Ash St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Shino Sushi + Kappo is a traditional Japanese restaurant that serves some of the best gyoza in town.

The handmade dumplings are cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and a juicy filling. The restaurant also offers a great selection of Japanese beers on draft to complement the meal.

The service is prompt and friendly, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

If you're looking for a great place to grab a weekday lunch or dinner, Shino Sushi + Kappo is definitely worth a visit.

10. Wasabi Sushi

Wasabi Sushi
2662 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for delicious and affordable gyoza, Wasabi Sushi is the place to go.

With friendly and attentive service, this sushi restaurant serves up a variety of Japanese dishes in a down-to-earth setting.

The gyoza is a must-try appetizer, and the sushi and sashimi are bursting with freshness and flavor.

The restaurant also offers creative rolls and cooked dishes, making it a great spot for any Japanese food lover. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

11. Sei Sushi

Sei Sushi
8862 Navajo Rd, San Diego, CA 92119 (Google Maps)

Sei Sushi is a must-visit spot for gyoza lovers. The staff is courteous and attentive, creating a pleasant atmosphere for diners.

The sushi is fresh and well-prepared, but the real star of the show is the perfectly cooked gyoza. The menu offers a variety of options, including the Navajo crunch roll and miso soup, all at reasonable prices.

The restaurant has a casual vibe, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

Don't miss the chopped Wasabi, a must-try dish for sushi aficionados. Sei Sushi is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for delicious Japanese cuisine.

12. The Yasai

The Yasai
2254 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Yasai is a must-visit for vegans and sushi lovers alike. The restaurant boasts a modern design and friendly staff.

The menu offers both vegan and non-vegan options, with the vegan gyoza being a standout dish.

The sushi is delicious, with creative rolls like the stressed out roll and the believer. The portions are large and perfect for sharing with friends.

Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food justifies the cost. The restaurant is a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.

13. Sushi Factory

Sushi Factory
5420 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115 (Google Maps)

Sushi Factory is a great spot for gyoza lovers. The restaurant offers a limited offering of nigiri, but the rice less rolls are pretty good.

The food is prepared quickly and served fresh.

The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. The atmosphere is great and the staff is friendly and helpful.

Sushi Factory is definitely worth a visit if you're in the mood for some delicious gyoza.

14. Sushi Roll Land

Sushi Roll Land
3955 Fifth Ave #100, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Sushi Roll Land is a Japanese restaurant that serves exquisite gyoza. The gyoza is made fresh and is packed with flavor.

The restaurant also offers an all-you-can-eat sushi option that is reasonably priced.

The staff is friendly and attentive. The ambiance is casual and laid-back, making it a great place to hang out with friends or family.

Sushi Roll Land is definitely worth checking out if you're looking for great gyoza and sushi.

15. Izakaya Sakura

Izakaya Sakura
3904 Convoy St #121, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Izakaya Sakura is a Japanese restaurant that serves delicious gyoza. The restaurant is known for its authentic and affordable Japanese food.

The menu has a wide variety of options, including katsu curry, uni pasta, miso marinated cod, and fish clay pot. The lunch menu offers many choices from $10 to $12, including bento lunch, with generous portions.

The restaurant has a great atmosphere and friendly service. It is a great place for Japanese beer and alcohol. The food is reasonably priced, and the quality is excellent.

The restaurant is popular among Japanese customers, which adds to its authenticity. Izakaya Sakura is a true izakaya that serves traditional Japanese fare.

16. Tasty Noodle House

Tasty Noodle House
4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Tasty Noodle House is a bustling Chinese restaurant that specializes in traditional dishes from Shanghai and Sichuan province.

Their gyoza is a must-try, with a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

The service is fast and friendly, and the environment is clean and welcoming. Although there may be a wait during peak times, it is well worth it for the delicious food.

Tasty Noodle House is perfect for those looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience.

17. Harumama Noodles + Buns

Harumama Noodles + Buns
1901 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Harumama Noodles + Buns is a stylish Asian fusion restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional dishes. The gyoza is a must-try, with perfectly cooked dumplings and flavorful fillings.

The bao buns are also a fan favorite, with cute character designs and delicious combinations like crispy shrimp with sweet and spicy unagi sauce.

The ramen is another standout dish, with rich and flavorful broth and unique toppings like crispy brussel sprouts.

The staff are friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience overall.