Came here for lunch yesterday. Situated in Albert Lane. We beat the lunch rush and arrived before midday. There was only one other diner seated at the time and we got to pick where we wanted to sit. We were greeted upon arrival & chose a table at the back of the restaurant with a view of the bar. We were asked if we've been here before & guided to each use the QR code on the table if we wanted a separate bill at the end. We decided to order using the same QR code & split the bill later (as the surcharge rate if any wasn't displayed where we were seated).
We ordered the following dishes to share:
BEEF TATAKI served with yuzu & wasabi dressing (loved the presentation, thin and delicate slices of quality beef rounds with a sufficent amount of wasabi flavoured sauce. It was subtle & didn't sting) BUFFALO CHICKEN GYOZA (these were crispy, had a decent amount of filling and ample blue cheese dipping sauce. The hot sauce tasted like siracha and wasn't hot for me) LAMB RIBS (I get excited when I see lamb ribs on the menu. The serve came with 6 individual pieces. They were well seasoned and fall apart tender. Yes there were bits of fat but I guess you gotta expect this due to the cut. You can eat around it if it's not your thing) AIR LAYERED MATCHA CHEESECAKE (definitely recommend this. There was a decent served. It came with accompanying with matcha and chocolate sauce which I recommend trying with a spoon first to see if you like it before pouring over the whole dessert. I loved the sauce and poured the whole thing on. The cheesecake was light it reminded me of whipped cream but it was dense. Absolutely delicious. We loved this dessert).
We were very happy with the prompt and friendly service by the staff who were smiling and happy to answer any questions we had. At the end we had 1 bill and were pleased to be able to pay half each on our cards.
This is a busy and popular venue. The restaurant was packed when we left. We left satisfied and with...
Read moreHarajuku Gyoza Albert Lan boasts an intriguing fusion of ambiance and decor, accompanied by a melodic soundtrack that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. However, my recent visit to this establishment left me grappling with conflicting sentiments.
Upon entering, I was immediately charmed by the small yet vibrant ambiance and the captivating decor that exuded an unmistakable Japanese flair. The subtle notes of music added to the overall atmosphere, promising a culinary adventure ahead.
Regrettably, the journey fell short of expectations, beginning with the main meals. The chicken in my dish was noticeably half-frozen, compromising its flavor and texture. The rice, a staple component, seemed aged and lacked the freshness one would anticipate. Moreover, the curry sauce failed to impress, lacking the depth of flavor one would expect from a Japanese-inspired establishment. Even the greens accompanying the meal seemed lackluster, further detracting from its appeal.
Adding to the disappointment, the sides were exorbitantly priced, failing to justify their lackluster quality. This discrepancy between cost and quality only served to exacerbate the disappointment, particularly given the restaurant's reputation.
To compound matters, the service left much to be desired. The eagerness to clear my plate, despite my meal being scarcely finished, created an atmosphere of undue haste, further detracting from the overall dining experience.
In conclusion, while Harajuku Gyoza Albert Lan may excel in ambiance and decor, it falls short in delivering a truly satisfying culinary journey. With subpar main meals, overpriced sides, and lackluster service, it's challenging to justify a return visit also considering that they have so many 5 star reviews because they offer free beer if you do....
Read moreOne of my absolute favourites in Brisbane! Tucked away in Albert Lane (make a left at Zara on the Queen Street mall), this gem of Japanese kitsch design and J-pop soundtrack delivers with Innovative flavours and great value. Happy hour beers are about seven bucks and the lotus chips are discounted and probably my favourite snack. They have lots of vegetarian choices, including fried cauliflower, eggplant, stack, veggie gyoza fried mozzarella gyoza topped with freeze dried cheddar crumble, and some of the best spring rolls I’ve ever tasted. I recommend the sweet and spicy sauce. Omnivores will be excited about just as many dishes with a plethora of taste, sensations and wonderful presentations. The staff are friendly and efficient, and the iPad ordering system is genius. It’s bright, the music isn’t too loud to hold a conversation, and there are very comfortable booths and banquettes. The eclectic dishes that the tables are set with and the simple chopstick and cocktail napkins allow the food to be the centre of attention. I never get tired of the comfort foods that allow you to order several plates to share and there is rarely any leftovers as “there’s always room for one more gyoza”. We turned to listen, as there was some noise at the table behind us, and it was some type of machine pumping out what looked to be noodles that were then topped with red bean paste. They also were three flavours of dessert baos, but we had no room. I am a picky customer, and I have never been disappointed with the food service and ambiance of this delightful location. I’ve also had an exceptional meal at their Broadbeach...
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