Very light and clean-tasting Tonkatsu, managed by a team who prepare your meals in a cosy store with bar-seating only, a distance away from the main crowds of Hongdae. The MVP here was the freshly grated radish with ponzu sauce - I mean, I totally get why it costs 2,000 won on its own! The store will also require you to have KakaoTalk / a Korean number to reserve your seats.
Overview
Located at 126 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea, Kawakatsu stands out as one of the finest dining destinations for those craving high-quality Japanese cuisine. This gem of a restaurant combines traditional flavors with contemporary style, offering a dining experience that both locals and tourists consistently rave about.
The moment you walk into Kawakatsu, you're immediately welcomed by the calm, minimalist ambiance of the space. The interior is clean and modern, with subtle touches that evoke a sense of tranquility. The soft lighting and carefully arranged dรฉcor set the perfect tone for enjoying an exquisite meal. Whether you're visiting for a casual lunch or a special dinner, the atmosphere at Kawakatsu makes it an ideal setting for any occasion.
As you peruse the menu, you'll notice that Kawakatsu takes pride in offering a wide variety of dishes, each prepared with the finest ingredients. The restaurant specializes in sushi, sashimi, and tempura, but it also offers an extensive selection of other Japanese dishes. One of the most popular items on the menu is their signature sushi rolls, known for their freshness and perfect balance of flavors. Each roll is made with premium fish, tender rice, and delicate seasoning that showcases the skill of the chefs at Kawakatsu.
For those looking to try something more traditional, the sashimi at Kawakatsu is an absolute must. The fish is sliced to perfection, maintaining its freshness and natural taste, and served in generous portions. If you're in the mood for something crispy, the tempura is another standout dish. The batter is light and airy, allowing the flavors of the vegetables and seafood to shine through without being weighed down by excess oil.
In addition to its signature dishes, Kawakatsu also offers a range of sides and accompaniments that perfectly complement the main courses. Their miso soup is flavorful, with a rich, umami-packed broth that warms you from the inside out. The pickled vegetables are also a great way to balance the richness of the meal, providing a refreshing and tangy contrast to the savory dishes.
The restaurant is known for its impeccable service. The staff at Kawakatsu are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, always willing to guide you through the menu and suggest pairings that will elevate your dining experience. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, the service here is always consistent, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
When it comes to price, Kawakatsu is on the higher end of the spectrum, but the quality of the food justifies the cost. Youโre not just paying for the meal; youโre paying for the exceptional ingredients, the artistry in each dish, and the overall experience. For those seeking an unforgettable meal in Seoul, Kawakatsu offers a dining experience that is well worth the investment.
As a highly recommended restaurant in Seoul, Kawakatsu has received numerous glowing reviews from both locals and tourists. Many people appreciate the authenticity of the dishes and the attention to detail in both food preparation and presentation. The restaurantโs commitment to quality and service has earned it a loyal following, making it a top choice for those seeking an authentic taste of Japan in Seoul.
If you're planning a visit to Seoul and are in search of exceptional Japanese cuisine, Kawakatsu is a restaurant you definitely want to add to your list. Whether you're a sushi enthusiast or a first-time visitor to Japanese dining, this restaurant promises a memorable and satisfying experience that will leave you eager to return.
Good to know
Service options
โ Dine-in โ DeliveryPopular for
โ Lunch โ Dinner โ Solo diningAccessibility
โ Wheelchair-accessible car park โ Wheelchair-accessible entrance โ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
โ Alcohol โ Beer โ Quick biteDining options
โ Lunch โ Dinner โ Table serviceAmenities
โ ToiletAtmosphere
โ Casual โ TrendyCrowd
โ Tourists โ University studentsPlanning
โ Usually a wait โ Accepts reservationsPayments
โ Credit cards โ Debit cards โ NFC mobile paymentsPhotos
Location
Reviews
Yes, it is delicious! I agree with many reviewers below that it is the very best Tonkatsu place in this neighbourhood. Plus, it is not that expensive compared to other Tonkatsu restaurants popualr these days. You can tell how carefully and well the owner aged the pork he serves. Salad dressing which is fresh and not too strong adds nice flavour and joy. I would love to visit again even I have to wait for about half an hour when it is busy.
Seriously delicious. This mixed set isn't available on the English menu but it was on the Korean menu for 17 000. It's a mix of both kinds of pork. The longer ones are fattier and the short rounds on the right are leaner. Both are amazing, but it will leave you quite full so if you only get 1cut of meat I'd recommend the fattier cut. They have wasabi, donkas sauce, salt, and also a rosemary oil for dipping the meat into. Doing a rosemary and then salt dip is incredible and unexpectedly delicious. The meat is amazing and totally worth the price. Been back a few times and it's consistently delicious and filling.
A super-popular tonkatsu joint. Sirloin was generally better than tenderloin, in my opinion. Dining space is limited.
The Tonkatsu here is the best in Seoul, hands down! The crunchy exterior paired with the succulent interior sets it apart. The seasoning is spot on, and the sauce adds a perfect tangy kick. It's a must-visit for anyone craving authentic, delicious Tonkatsu. A culinary gem in the heart of the city!
Amazing tonkatsu... Great service, price and atmosphere. Will definitely return.
If you're anywhere remotely near this place, you must go. It is the best Katsu I've tasted. The crunch from the outside to the "smoother than prime rib almost like cake" inside makes this a wild ride for your taste buds. Don't forget to try each bite with different sauces/seasonings. Here are my favorite in order: 1. Wasabi 2. Oil (Garlic?) 3. Fresh ground black pepper 4. Gravy Make sure you get there before the lunch rush. Seating is very limited.