Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Singapore: Japan’s famous gyukatsu specialty restaurant opens at Raffles City

If you’ve been to Japan, chances are you’ve tried Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu (or at the very least heard of the brand) — the number one beef katsu specialty chain in the country. 

Boasting over 70 outlets worldwide, the chain often sees snaking queues, as tourists and locals alike clamour for a taste of its signature beef cuts. To savour its wares, your best bet would be to stop by during non-peak hours, but even then, some waiting time is to be expected. 

With Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu’s launch in Singapore, you no longer have to venture overseas just to try its food! This marks its first local outpost and it’s conveniently located in the heart of the central district at Raffles City Shopping Centre. 

The restaurant officially opens its doors to the public on September 7 and we already expect queues. Head down to the basement level of the mall and you’ll find it tucked away in a corner, right beside bun specialist Wo Wo Dian.

The space

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu’s Singapore store is slicked in earthy tones of ochre and oak, while warm, diffused lights brighten the place. It sets the mood from the get-go, inviting diners in with its cosy atmosphere and welcoming ambience. 

A large, traditional cochin (paper Japanese lantern) also greets you at the door, while the interior is embellished with Japanese-style memorabilia. The design leans on its origins and makes you feel like you’re dining at a restaurant in Kyoto.

If you’ve ever wondered why the beef cutlets at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu are so sought-after, the secret lies in its recipe. That’s because the folks here take pride in their craft and cherry-pick only fresh, premium beef cuts. 

Each hunk of beef must be carefully selected — it has to be perfectly marbled, lean and have a balanced amount of fat. There are plenty of boxes to check off the list, but ultimately, each ratio is well-formulated to bring out the wagyu meat’s innate savouriness and decadence.

Its signature batter is also what lends the beef cutlets their iconic, addictive crunch. Made with a secret in-house recipe, it’s a light koromo (tempura) batter that features a tasty combination of breadcrumbs, flour and egg wash. 

Once the strips of beef are evenly battered, they then undergo a deep-frying process until they attain a gorgeous golden-brown hue. The result is a crispy, airy crust that complements the juiciness of the beef well.

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu’s Singapore menu

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Singapore’s menu is identical to the original in Japan, so locals can finally see (and taste) the hype for themselves. 

The highly-lauded A5 Miyazaki sirloin gyukatsu zen set (S$55) is a must-try that boasts tender, succulent strips of wagyu. It’s gorgeously marbled with a flavourful, melt-in-your-mouth texture, with the tender body that just goes impeccably with its crunchy coat. 

It’s also accompanied by a small serving of cold, citrus ponzu with grated Japanese radish that is best enjoyed together with the beef. When combined, each bite is smooth and sweet with a hint of zest from the sauce, which in turn contrasts the rich savouriness of the wagyu meat.

Besides the wagyu, there is a diverse range of cuts for you to choose from, depending on your heart’s desire. You can’t go wrong with the classic sirloin or tenderloin, while the beef tongue will entice those who relish bolder, alternative cuts. 

But if you can’t make up your mind, then the half-and-half gyukatsu zen sets (from S$29) will probably tickle your fancy. You get the best of both worlds with this option, which sees two different cuts paired together.

Each half-and-half set comes with a sirloin cut, but you can otherwise pick between the chuck tail flap, tenderloin or beef tongue to round out the meal. The tenderloin comes in a close second for us, as it’s lean, meaty and chock-full of umami. 

The chuck tail flap, in contrast to the tenderloin and wagyu, is heavier on the palate, albeit with a slight gamey edge to it. There’s definitely more bite in this cut and if you don’t mind its heartier flavour, then this will be right up your alley. 

All the cuts at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Singapore are served medium-rare, but if this level of doneness isn’t your speed, go ahead and grill them on a hot plate (that’s served at every table) until it’s done just the way you like it.

For added flavour and fragrance, you can pair the beef cutlets with the range of complimentary sauces that come together with the set. 

We loved the rich, umami onsen egg that coats the beef katsu in a gentle creaminess, while the Kyoto dashi curry is an umami-forward dip that matches well with the protein and rice.

Our two cents

If you’ve never been to the famed beef chain’s original restaurants in Japan, then perhaps this is a good time to pop over to the Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Singapore outlet and experience its well-loved fare for yourself. 

But for those who’re not a fan of crowds or queues, we suggest you hold off a tad longer for your gyukatsu fix till the crowds die down.

While there aren’t any plans for more outlets at this point, we’re sure the local adoration for all things Japanese and katsu will spring forth another outlet sooner, rather than later.

This was a hosted tasting.

For the latest eats, read about the new Korean fried chicken restaurant Daily Chicken at Bugis Junction and pan-fried bun specialist Ging Sun Ho at Tampines Mall. Alternatively, check out the newest openings in Singapore here. 

You can also book a ride to Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu at Raffles City to savour its signature beef katsu. 

Do explore the GrabFood Dine Out service for awesome deals.