Yamato — Restaurant in Okayama

A JapanEat® recommendation, this is another local legend and for good reason. It is slinging out great Ramen and its own Okayama take on Katsudon.

The Katsu is breaded and fried fresh after your order, and each succulent piece is a masterclass in tonkatsu. It is well breaded and results in an incredibly thin and light crust that holds up well under the thick sauce. The breading accentuates the pork, rather than being a costar or overpowering the pork flavor. The meat itself is tender and well portioned, not fatty or overly seasoned. The sauce for the Katsudon is a tomato-based sauce. It is thick and luscious, but not heavy, and pairs exceptionally well with both the Katsu and the Rice. It is compelling with each bite that you take, and keeps you coming back for more!

A medium size is plenty for one person, as the portion sizes are massive for every meal. Half of the patrons seemed to be ordering the Chashu Ramen, and the other half the Katsudon. Okayama adds peas to all their meals, so that is included as well, and don't be picky and eat them!

The staff is friendly and kind, but it is popular so be prepared to wait in line. They have an English Menu, and are CASH ONLY. If you are ever in the Okayama area, this is a great stop to visit and have an exceptionally cooked meal!...

This restaurant was not part of my travel plan but by pure coincidence the host of my Airbnb accomodation is also the owner of this restaurant so I decided to try it out. The katsu-don that I tried is one of the best katsu-don that I've ever had, crispy on the outside and tender in the middle, topped by a layer of special sauce that elevates the dish to another level. It also comes in 3 available portion sizes with corresponding price tags so customers can order accordingly to fit their appetite. If you are traveling to Okayama do give this restaurant a try, worth every...

Delicious restaurant and good service. There is English menu available, and there is also display food outside of the shop. I came in during lunch peak hours, so I have to queue up - but it doesn't take long. The food is very good and service is quick. Price is what you would expect for any ramen shop (around 800-1000 yen). Highly recommended if you are coming to Okayama as this shop is within walking distance to the Okayama Castle and the...