GYUKATSU Kyoto Katsugyu Kyoto Ekimae — Restaurant in Kyoto

If you’re wandering Kyoto and want something cozy but a little special, gyukatsu is a perfect pick — and apparently a must-try here. Think thin slices of premium wagyu (they really do rave about it for a reason) coated in panko and fried so the outside is satisfyingly crisp while the inside stays tender and pink. We ordered everything from tenderloin to sirloin and it was lipsmackingly delicious.

Most places serve it as a neat set: gyukatsu, rice, miso soup, pickles, shredded cabbage or grated daikon, and a few dipping options — soy, rock salt, sesame, sometimes wasabi. One lovely touch is the onsen egg: dip a piece in that silky, slightly runny egg and you’ll get that extra creamy, savory boost. Some shops give you a small hot stone or grill so you can sear each bite exactly how you like it; other places bring perfectly cooked katsu that doesn’t need grilling, but using the grill is a fun little part of the meal.

How to enjoy it Give a quick sear on the hot stone if you want it warmer or more done. Dip in soy, salt, or the onsen egg — the egg is a game-changer. Take bites with rice and pickles to balance the richness. Sip green tea or a cold beer between bites.

Heads-up: there can be a short wait — anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day — so try to come early if you can. Even with a line, it’s totally worth it. Casual but refined, tactile and flavorful, gyukatsu in Kyoto feels like one of those small food pleasures that pairs perfectly with a slow evening stroll along the Kamo River or through lantern-lit Gion. Honestly? 10/10 — go...

This place hands down had some of the best katsu my friends and I had during our entire Japan trip. My friends and I arrived at the restaurant right when they opened and were greeted warmly by the staff. We were led through the narrow corridor to our seats and given a menu with plenty of pictures and English descriptions describing the beef katsu they served there. We were really thankful that they had set menus because it made it easier for foreigners like us to order.

Two of us ended choosing the premium Wagyu set and one of my friend got the sirloin set. All the sets came with soup, rice, a curry sauce, an onsen egg, salad, fresh wasabi, radish, and some sauces. When we got our items, the staff helped light up the mini stone hot plates in the middle of our table to grill the gyukatsu to our desired doneness. We weren’t sure at first on how to properly eat the meal but luckily, there was a helpful guide within the menu and on the table with picture instructions on how to enjoy the gyukatsu.

When I say these were some of the best cuts of meat I’ve ever had, I’m not exaggerating. The beef literally melted on my tongue and all the sauces complimented the meat so well. Personally, my favorite way of enjoying the gyukatsu was by adding a bit of fresh wasabi on the meat and then dipping the grilled beef into the dashi soy sauce, followed by dipping it into the onsen egg. The salty dashi mixed with the spicy wasabi and the creamy egg made it some of the best bites of food I’ve ever had. 11/10 I definitely would add this place to your next...

During my recent visit to Gyukatsu Kyoto, I had an extraordinary culinary experience that I strongly recommend to anyone looking for authentic Japanese cuisine. The highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the Premium Wagyu Sirloin Gyukatsu. The tenderness and softness of the wagyu were beyond compare. Cooking it on the mini personal hotplate not only added a delightful interactive element to the dining experience but also helped release the rich, buttery flavors inherent in the Wagyu beef, enhancing its natural goodness.For diners who prefer a leaner cut, the Japanese Beef Sirloin Gyukatsu is an excellent choice, offering a lighter option without compromising on the quality and flavor that Gyukatsu Kyoto is known for.To top off the meal, I tried the unique Matcha Beer, a refreshing and innovative complement that perfectly balanced the richness of the gyukatsu. The cool, slightly earthy tones of the matcha mixed with the crispness of the beer created a memorable beverage that's a must-try for any visitor.Whether you're a long-time fan of gyukatsu or trying it for the first time, this establishment is a must-visit. The attentive staff, cozy ambiance, and, most importantly, the high-quality, flavorful dishes make for an unforgettable dining experience. Gyukatsu Kyoto has truly mastered the art of gyukatsu, making it a top destination for both locals and...