Ebi gyoza (shrimp dumplings) are a staple at most Japanese restaurants. The recipe is fairly simple: ground shrimp and seasonings pinched inside of a doughy dumpling, then steamed or fried in a pan. But the taste can vary dramatically from one restaurant to another.

I've tasted my fair share of fried gyoza over the years but, surprisingly, Komegashi, near the Exchange Place PATH station, has the best dish I've ever tasted. What sets theirs apart the thin and delicate dough, which means that when you fry the dumpling on the bottom, it's actually crunchy. That was quite a surprise and I'd never experienced it before.The second I finished the first bite, I knew that this was exactly how fried gyoza was meant to be.

Komegashi is situated on a lively corner, surrounding by other bars and restaurants, and has been a neighborhood staple for over 15 years. The décor inside is cozy, serene and stylish, only slightly marred by the American pop music leaking from the overhead speakers. If you are lucky enough to be there when it's not crowded, the service is attentive and fast. Other times, you might have a bit of a wait.

The menu is full-service, with an interesting array of appetizers, sushi, entrées, desserts -- even after-dinner drinks. Speaking of dessert, the Chocolate Pyramid is not to be missed. The menu describes it as "chocolate cake inside a bittersweet pyramid of chocolate served with raspberry and mango coulis." I would simply describe it as "chocolate heaven."

If you prefer a more traditional Japanese dessert, Komegashi offers mochi (ice cream inside a soft flour dough), scoops of green tea ice cream, or strawberry harumaki (strawberry and red bean fried in a special rice paper).

Komegashi also has a larger second location in the Newport area called Komegashi Too.

Komegashi

103 Montgomery Street

201.433.4567