Saboten Aberdeen — Restaurant in Richmond

A Crispy Comfort – Saboten Richmond Delivers Excellence in Every Bite

If you’re craving golden, crispy perfection that only a true Japanese tonkatsu master can deliver, Saboten in Richmond, BC is a must-visit. Known globally for its deep-fried pork cutlets, this location brings the brand’s signature quality to Canada with precision and care.

I ordered the Saboten Set, and every component was thoughtfully prepared. The pork loin katsu was tender and juicy inside, with a perfectly light, crunchy coating—crispy without being oily. The shrimp katsu had a sweet, clean flavor and the same expert fry. The potato croquette added a creamy, comforting texture that rounded out the set beautifully.

The sides were just as satisfying. The shredded cabbage, served with a refreshing yuzu dressing, helped balance the richness of the fried items. The rice was well-cooked and slightly sticky—the way it should be—and the miso soup was mild and comforting. While sides like cabbage and rice aren't refillable here (as they are in some overseas locations), the portions are generous and well-balanced.

The restaurant is clean, modern, and inviting, with attentive staff and efficient service. It's a great spot whether you're dining solo, on a lunch break, or enjoying a casual meal with friends.

If you’ve never tried Saboten before, the Saboten Set is the perfect introduction—it showcases their variety and attention to detail. It’s clear they’ve brought their A-game to Richmond.

5/5 – A high-quality tonkatsu experience that leaves you full, happy, and planning...

Just go to Vancouver for your Japanese curry needs - the price is equivalent to eating at a restaurant anyways.

Use to be really good. was always decent when you see the regular guy at the till. The sandwich is more expensive but the meat doesn’t seem as good as before. The rice is drier and inconsistent (some parts are really mushy) and the fried shrimp depends on who’s making it. If I’m craving this and I’m at Aberdeen I’ll still get it because it’s not a bad set as there’s no other place and it’s enough food (maybe for a guy it won’t be enough).

Today, the service was bad. Went for food at 3:30 and there’s no line, but they’re being quite slow and taking their time. Not bad if the quality was good but today’s shrimp tempura is not crispy at all. It’s very smooth and isn’t at all like how it use to be. New guy almost put in the wrong order but saved it at the last moment by double checking (thought I wanted the shrimp set when I said shrimp curry).

I told him it was to-go, and he looked surprised and he had to repeat it- I confirmed and I saw him tap the screen. Then when I saw that it should be my order out next (there was only two people ahead of me) I saw it was being put on a tray. So I told the lady prepping it was supposed to be to-go, but the lady argued back saying it didn’t say on the receipt. Then I saw her gossiping with another and they gave each other an expression like I was being an annoyance. - I always tip 10-15% since I work sales too, but why do I bother...

Saboten has long been a heavyweight in the world of Japanese tonkatsu, and their Richmond location proves why. I came in curious and left completely impressed.

I ordered the Saboten Set, which includes pork loin katsu, shrimp katsu, and a creamy croquette. From the very first bite, it was clear: this isn’t just deep-fried food—it’s craftsmanship. The pork was tender and juicy, wrapped in a crisp golden shell that shattered beautifully with each bite. The shrimp was sweet and fresh, and the croquette? Soft, rich, and nostalgic.

What I appreciated most was the balance. The cabbage salad, with its zingy yuzu dressing, lightened the whole meal. The rice was fluffy, the miso soup subtle but grounding. While these sides aren’t refillable in Canada, the portions were more than satisfying.

The interior is clean and minimalist—classic Japanese style—and the staff were friendly without being overbearing. It’s clear that Saboten doesn’t just rely on its global brand; this location truly delivers in both taste and atmosphere.

If you're looking for a meal that’s both comforting and precise, Saboten hits all the right notes.

Final Verdict: 5/5 – A masterclass in tonkatsu. Crunchy, clean, and...