Still one of my favorite restaurants after so many years, Mankin Gyoza House remains a Sagamihara staple since the 1970’s. Way back in 1982 my good friend (Mike #1) introduced me to Mankin Gyoza House here in Sagamihara. Mankin Gyoza was, and still is a unique dining experience. https://www.mankingyoza.com
“Charlie” immigrated to Japan from China in the 1970’s with the idea of opening this one-of-a-kind gyoza restaurant. He was young, always friendly, yet very serious about his business and pleasing customers. We were “regulars;” addicted to his food. As of this day, his restaurant remains popular as ever here in Sagamihara. So what is Mankin Gyoza?
It is a dumpling; however, very different than the usual gyoza in Japan. The “wrapping” is a bit heavier and crispy, and what is inside remains a secret. My taste buds tell me it’s pork, cabbage, garlic, onion, ginger, and more. Once dipped into a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and freshly grated garlic…it is bursting with flavor!
“Charlie” has kept his shop and menu simple and cheap from the very beginning- gyoza, rice, soups, and salads; all of which never disappoint. My friend Mike “#2” returned to Japan a few years ago and Charlie surely remembered him, some 30 years later!
Because the food is so good and the restaurant so popular, customers can only order once! There is always a line at the door!
Let’s Enjoy This Sagamihara Staple Together!
If you are ever in the area of Sagamihara, particularly near Smith’s School of English, I would be very happy to introduce you to this restaurant and treat you to a great lunch or dinner! But just one bit of advice- make sure your next day is off, because you will be seriously smelling of garlic tomorrow!!
Thanks for reading! Jim, SSE, Sagamihara http://smithweb.co.jp/sagamihara/
And just because- a photo of both “Mikes!”
What a fantastic story Jim. Thank you.
Thanks Mark! Let’s go!
Natsukashi! I wish you could fed ex me some.Great article Jim. Brings me back.
Great story, great memories. I always got the salad too.
Delicious gyoza and so many great memories with friends. Great blog post Jim and thanks for the reminder.
Thanks Dionne. Come Back!
One of the many things I miss about Japan. The gyoza, rice, kimchi, and beer. Always better when shared with friends (like Jim and Mike #2).
What a fun story, Jim! The photos are great, makes me wish I was there. I love the Army Band connection too. Mike# 1 and Mike# 2 are my era! And, such an interesting immigration story. Thanks!
Great food and nice memories – Thanks Jim!
Thanks for reading!
Great story, great food and wonderful memories. Keep writing, Jim.
I now understand what you’ve meant by saying it’s about THE gyoza restaurant. Amazing story Jim. I’d love to try their gyoza.
Just before I arrived in May 1982, Charlie ran a gyoza eating contest. They did not use regular gyozas. Charlie made extra large ones, about the size of a fist. Mark Connelly ate 20 something. Winner ate 64. Would have loved to see that BM!
I remember too, Mike.
Mike I too was station at Camp Zama Army Post from 1982 – 1985 and visit here weekly. I had an opportunity to return in 2018 and was the first place I visit. Charlie was happy to see me as I told the story of his wife and sister in-law sitting in the restaurant rolling the gyoza. He rewarded my wife and I with tee shirts and a tour as this is not the original building.
Steve Favors of OL-C 1956th CG?
I was just eating some store bought “pot stickers” and thinking about Mankin’s House of Gyoza. 1982 – 1985 stationed at Camp Zama and ate there often. Thanks for sharing the memories!
I was in the Air Force also stationed at Camp Zama, 81-84 and Charlie and the gyoza were amazing, so miss the place and the food.
Oh to be 20 something at Zama eating Charlie’s gyoza again.!