Katsukura Sanjo Kyoto Review: Kawaramachi's Best Tonkatsu

After an early morning flight,

we landed at Kansai Airport and took the Haruka train to Kyoto.

Once we checked into our accommodation and rested a bit,

we explored Fushimi Inari Shrine, and by the time we finished,

dinner time had already passed us by.

Wanting to experience Kyoto's evening streets,

we slowly wandered around the Kawaramachi area,

searching for a spot to grab dinner.

To our surprise, many restaurants

closed their doors as early as 8:00 PM.

Having fond memories of Osaka's vibrant late-night dining scene,

we were caught off guard. Kyoto definitely had a different vibe.

Starting to worry we might miss dinner entirely,

we frantically searched on a map and found

'Katsukura Sanjo Main Branch'.

📌 Basic Information

Katsukura Sanjo: Hidden Gem at the End of a Narrow Alley

Katsukura Sanjo is tucked away inside the Sanjo Meitengai Arcade,

and we almost walked right past the entrance at first.

Even with Google Maps guiding us,

the alley entrance was so narrow, we wondered if we were in the right place.

However, once you pass through the tight passage,

the atmosphere completely transforms.

Unlike the bustling arcade, the interior is much quieter and calmer,

exuding that unique, serene Kyoto charm.

Fortunately, we arrived around 7:40 PM,

just past the peak dinner rush, so the wait wasn't too long.

After about a 20-minute wait,

we were seated at our table.

Even as closing time approached,

the staff remained incredibly friendly and attentive,

making us feel welcome even before our meal began.

Premium Tonkatsu & The Fun Pre-Meal Ritual

Katsukura is renowned in Kyoto for its delicious tonkatsu,

so their prices are a bit higher than your average chain restaurant.

Since we were already there, we decided to treat ourselves to a proper meal.

I ordered the seasonal Yuba Maki + Hirekatsu set,

while my travel companion chose the premium Sangan Pork Tonkatsu set.

After placing our order,

the server brought out a mini mortar filled with toasted sesame seeds

and a wooden pestle.

Grinding the sesame seeds while waiting for our tonkatsu

was surprisingly fun and filled the air with a delightful, nutty aroma.

On the table, three types of sauces were ready:

A refreshing yuzu-based salad dressing,

a slightly spicy, rich, thick sauce,

and the classic tonkatsu sauce.

We mixed our preferred sauces with the freshly ground sesame seeds,

completing our meal preparation.

Hirekatsu So Good, You Don't Need Sauce

Soon after, our freshly fried tonkatsu arrived.

Taking a bite of the thick tonkatsu, I realized

there was no need to drench it in sauce.

The meat itself was so flavorful that it was best

simply enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt from the table

and a touch of freshly ground sesame seeds.

Even with its thick cut of pork, the Hirekatsu was

incredibly tender and moist, not dry at all.

Each bite was so satisfying, I almost wished

the pieces on my plate wouldn't disappear so quickly!

Seasonal Yuba Maki & Generous Refills

The unexpected highlight of this meal was the Yuba Maki.

This dish features vegetables wrapped in yuba (tofu skin), a Kyoto specialty,

then lightly fried.

Initially, I thought it would just be a side dish,

but I was genuinely surprised by its deliciousness.

Crispy on the outside, yet moist and flavorful within,

the sweetness and aroma of the vegetables truly shone through.

It offered a refreshing contrast to the rich, meaty tonkatsu.

At Katsukura Sanjo Main Branch,

the thinly shredded cabbage salad, rice,

and Kyoto-style barley miso soup are all available for free refills.

However, the initial portions served are so generous that even when starving,

we finished our meal feeling completely satisfied without needing any refills.

What We Loved

- Exceptional meat quality, delicious even with just salt

- The interactive fun of grinding your own sesame seeds

- Conveniently located for Kawaramachi sightseeing itineraries

- Unlimited refills for rice, cabbage, and miso soup

​

What to Consider

- A bit pricier than typical tonkatsu restaurants, around ~$13-~$20 per set

- Potential for waiting lines during evening hours

- The narrow entrance can be tricky to find at first

​

Who Will Love This Place!

- Travelers seeking a highly-rated, reliable tonkatsu spot in Kyoto

- Anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying dinner after sightseeing

- Those wanting to experience traditional Japanese tonkatsu dining

- Visitors searching for a restaurant near Kawaramachi Station

📝 In Summary

If you're looking for an authentic and delicious tonkatsu experience

in Kyoto's Kawaramachi area, Katsukura Sanjo is a highly satisfying choice.

🔻 You might also like🔻

Kyoto Hotels Near Kawaramachi Station