Picture this – you’re wandering down a colourfully lit alleyway in the vibrant Japanese city of Osaka, savouring the sounds, smells and flavours of intimate bars and eateries. Sounds like a foodie heaven, doesn’t it? Don’t get down in the dumps at the thought of Osaka being so far away – a slice of it has come to Brisbane in the form of Hato Gyoza & Grill. Drawing inspiration from the old style reminiscent of Osaka laneways, Hato Gyoza & Grill has converted a cosy nook in an arcade off Elizabeth Street into a happening hub of Japanese cuisine. Think hanging lanterns, smooth wooden furnishings, imported Japanese cushions and illustrated koi wallpaper and you’re on the right track.

On the food front, Hato Gyoza & Grill’s menu offers three main sections with a focus on seasonal ingredients while also adding a bit of newness to traditional Japanese offerings. The gyoza portion features pork, seafood or vegetarian dumplings served classic style, on a sizzling hot plate, drizzled with Japanese curry and cheese, or topped with seared cod roe. The tempura portion features mouth-watering morsels such as tempura udon (noodle soup), ten don (tempura with rice) and a sizeable tempura platter to share. Keep browsing and you’ll encounter the grilled selection, which sees sizzling meals served on hot plates with vegetables, fried free-range eggs and chips. Just picture sinking your chompers into succulent steak, crispy panko chicken, or tender pork kakuni – the drool factor is high. If that wasn’t enough, the chef’s specials also yield bento boxes and steamed baos with braised pork belly and katsu chicken. Rounding out the generous offering is the drinks selection, which includes premium sake, Japanese beer and more.

Think you’ve found your next lunch spot? Damn right you have! Find out more details in the Stumble Guide.