Kagura Tonkatsu — Restaurant in Monterey Park

Got the oyster and fillet katsu and the takoyaki

Oyster and Fillet katsu is delicious, but I will warn you of s few things. First, if you are not an oyster guy, this won't convince you to become one. Second, the tartar sauce doesn't have much flavor but it's texture makes up for it and it has the added benefit of overpowering the pork katsu and the oysters. Overall I'd say it's a worthwhile dish but it's for those who prefer oysters.

The takoyaki comes as 6 pieces for approx $8 it's the best takoyaki I've had in southern California thus far. Definitely recommend that.

Service was good, staff were friendly and the general vibes of the place are quite favorable.

Parking is a bit small but there are more parking spaces further according to a sign at the end of the normal parking spots they have out front.

I went around the time they opened and will easily say they get busy fast and if you wait it will be outside in the sun. They have a few benches but not shade...

STYLE OVER SUBSTANCE

I stopped by at 11:20 a.m. on a sweltering day, having noticed the restaurant the night before. Though they open at 11:30, and the space was empty, I was not allowed to wait inside. A small courtesy—especially in the heat—would have gone a long way for a first impression.

Despite being the first to order, I was the last to receive my food, for reasons unclear. Service felt disorganized and indifferent.

As for the food: underwhelming. The miso soup was indistinguishable from an instant mix, and while the fry on the meat was crisp, the flavor lacked depth. At $20, it offered little value—I’d have preferred a quick meal from a Japanese market.

By the time I began writing this, the check was placed on my table—an unsubtle nudge to make room for the next guest. The experience overall felt more performative than hospitable. A new restaurant should aim to earn loyalty, not just...

Please update your hours. I drove here very hungry and y'all weren't taking any...