Katsusei: Authentic Japanese Katsu

Pork Katsu

Source: jktgo.com

Katsusei is a chain originating from Utsunomoiya Japan, and it is definitely one of the most authentic Katsu eateries in Jakarta. The restaurant I went to was the one in Sentral Senayan which is far more quaint than its other location in Grand Indonesia. However, this does not detract from the experience at all since it gives a rather homey feel. When you walk into the restaurant through the fabric dividers, you will be greeted by a sight that many people would find reassuring at a Japanese restaurant. Japanese people. 

Katsusei Interior

Source: daman.co.id

Now let's get on to the more important matters, the food. I can honestly say that Katsusei provides some of the most authentic katsu dishes in Jakarta which is deep fried meat covered in bread crumb batter (usually pork, but chicken and prawn are common). Alongside the star player, a katsu dish also includes shredded cabbage, pickles and a bowl of rice. All of this is accompanied by a sauce which is also a big part of the restaurant's charm since you kind of have to craft it yourself. You are given sesame seeds which you have to crush using a miniature mortar and pestle and then a special sauce is added to create an absolutely divine mixture. All of these things come together to create a staple Japanese dish for which Katsusei does impeccably.

The dishes that are done best are their pork katsu which you have one of two choices in the type of meat you get; sirloin/loin (lots of fat) or fillet/tenderloin (lean) and they even have different grades of pork quality so if you are willing to shell out a few more rupiah, I highly recommend the kurobuta pork. The katsu-don which is katsu on top of rice covered in egg, onions and pickles is also another stellar dish.

Chicken Katsu-don

If you're looking for something slightly different then I do recommend the prawn katsu which is very similar to tempura but I think that prawn katsu has more of a kick and is a lot more filling.

Prawn Katsu

Source: daman.co.id

The price of a set menu dish (includes rice, soup, pickles) would set you back around 150,000 - 190,000 rupiah so it isn't exactly on the cheaper side but they do also offer some great side dishes like chicken karaage and sausages that are not only good, but inexpensive as well.

Overall, Katsusei is a great restaurant that oozes confidence in their preparation of a favourite Japanese dish. I highly recommend this restaurant despite being on the pricier side because it is 100% worth it. What can be better than crunchy and flavourful meat accompanied by a glass of ice cold Japanese beer?

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Katsusei

Sentral Senayan 1, Lantai Basement, Jl. Asia Afrika No. 8, Senayan, Jakarta

021 5731001

• Mon - Sun 11:30 - 22:00