KATSUYAKI - Costa Mesa — Restaurant in Costa Mesa

New addiction right here!

Had frequently driven past this spot and decided to walk in and check it out.

Love the options and combos available. The service is always appreciated: super friendly, welcoming, and helpful.

The food IS AMAZING and consistently so! I frequent the spicy chicken teriyaki with brown rice. The portion is perfect for lunch - enough to fill me and not leave me still feeling hungry. Presentation of the food is great, too. It's been about two to three months now, and I go at least two times a week. I just started trying the curry... DELICIOUS! I was provided the following tip for ordering this as there are two methods: order the Japanese curry bowl then added grilled chicken OR order the chicken katsu plate and add the Japanese curry. I tried both! Although I prefer the katsu more, the grilled chicken option is perfect for a small portion and as an on-the-go meal (still plenty of food!). I have tried the katsu burger, but the flavor of the spicy chicken teriyaki plate just takes the cake for me. No regerts.

The location itself is pretty good. A bit tucked away and can be kind of missed. There is plenty of inside seating. No outdoor seating available. The place is kept very clean and is pretty recent. A bit cozy if you want to sit a bit and do some work.

I got my friend hooked on this place, and we've come back 7 times in the last 2.5 weeks.

Can't say enough about this spot. Try it out!

Online ordering is available and fantastic for when you need to drop in, but they also accommodate ordering ahead and opting to eat in if you would appreciate that. Again, super helpful and...

We were in for three people the month of 12/2023. I ordered the lunch bento and it was a lil' light on portions. Even the rice was skimpy. Rice costs nothing and they were being a bit cheap. I can't see anyone being happy with these portions. That aside the store seemed a bit dusty and unloved. Dirty windows and floor. For example a 5' drink cart that was turned off and had no drinks (that refrigerator that presents drinks) was sitting in a corner. The food wasn't anything to crow about. Heavy fried foods and not a lot of freshness. The sandwich had no garnish or side - you can't just put a sandwich in the middle of the place, looks sloppy. But likely the worse thing is that they didn't have water for paying customers or even a fountain machine. To not have water -- is so 'we are not even trying'. It really is a deal breaker and a 'not a real restaurant' vibe. They had bottled water is what they would say, but come on - that is lazy and cheap. It felt there was no vision and love for the restaurant - just a counter, open room and fryer. Like it is a last ditch effort of some sort. Also everything was served in plastic. It communicates cheap. We so wanted this place to be first rate, but it just doesn't rate....

A Must-Try Spot for Katsu Lovers!

Katsuyaki exceeded all expectations! From the moment we walked in, the staff was incredibly welcoming and friendly, making us feel right at home. The seating area was spotless, adding to the overall great experience.

Now, let’s talk about the food—absolutely phenomenal! I ordered the combo plate with beef bulgogi and katsu chicken, along with a side of Japanese curry. Hands down, the best katsu I’ve ever had—crispy, tender, and perfectly juicy. The beef bulgogi was just as impressive—tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. And that Japanese curry? A game-changer! It was the perfect addition, especially on a rainy day. I loved dipping the chicken in it and pouring it over my rice for an extra burst of flavor.

This place is a gem, and we’ll definitely be back to try more of the menu. If you haven’t been to Katsuyaki yet, do yourself a favor and go—you...