Does Katsuya Really Serve The Best Tonkatsu In SG? Here’s Our Honest Review

Katsuya has authentic tonkatsu in Tanjong Katong

If I had to choose a Death Row meal today, it would be a tonkatsu set. Having tried many versions of the dish, I’ve found that while most are enjoyable, only a well-executed tonkatsu delivers a distinct and satisfying experience.

My hunt for that plate of tonkatsu brought me to Tanjong Katong to try Katsuya, a lesser-known spot compared to Singapore’s more commercialised brands, but one that has quietly earned a reputation over its 15 years of operations. With South Korea’s Tonshou fast emerging as the top dog since arriving at the end of 2024, I couldn’t help but wonder if a homegrown restaurant could measure up to a reputable foreign brand.

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Food at Katsuya 

My doubts mirrored the scepticism chef-owner Kervin Tay encountered when he first opened Katsuya at its former East Coast Road location in 2011, as locals questioned whether a Singaporean chef could truly master authentic Japanese cuisine. Determined to prove them wrong, he underwent formal training at a Japanese culinary school in Tokyo, honing the skills that would come to define Katsuya.

Chef Kervin’s passion for tonkatsu is evident in the care he puts into his dishes. But beyond his expertise in the kitchen, he is extremely hospitable, taking the initiative to engage guests and share the stories behind his creations. We had to go for their Hire Tonkatsu Set ($38++) and the Tokujyo Rosu Set ($46++) AKA a premium, top-grade cut of pork loin, with both cuts being air-flown from Hokkaido. 

Besides his signature tonkatsu selection, the menu also features creative special spin-offs such as Dory Katsu ($33++) and Unagi Katsu ($36++). 

There was a noticeable pink hue on the meat, but fret not—it was due to low-temperature cooking, which is fully compliant with food safety standards. The low heat allowed the meat to retain as much moisture as possible, and the effect of this was visible in the glistening juices on the surface, which exploded in our mouths as soon as we sank our teeth into the succulent cuts. 

Chewing on the fatty, melt-in-your-mouth Tokujyo Rosu was pure indulgence, perfectly framed by crisp breading of the ideal thickness, allowing the pork to shine. While its flavours were slightly muted at first, the chef’s recommendation to add salt and a dash of mustard unlocked a new depth of savoury richness in the meat.

We were expecting the leaner Hire cut to lack the juicy burst of its Rosu counterpart, but I was mistaken. It turned out to be just as juicy and offered a more tender, balanced profile, with the fats less pronounced. What I appreciated most about the cuts of meat was the clean aftertaste, free from any overpowering oiliness.

You can dip the meat into their viscous tonkatsu sauce for an extra kick of umami, though I preferred to savour the pure flavours of the tonkatsu on its own. The quality was consistent across every element, but we particularly enjoyed the crisp, shredded cabbage salad, which added a refreshing crunch to the meal. Meanwhile, the fragrant Japanese rice was fluffy without being overly clumpy, paired with a umami-rich miso soup that perfectly complemented everything.

Ambience at Katsuya

Rather than maximising seating, Katsuya offers a spacious and homely dining environment. The intimate space features an open-kitchen layout with a small number of counter seats, offering guests a front-row view of Chef Kervin’s craftsmanship, while encouraging chef and diner interaction. It was this sense of warmth and personal connection that defined my visit, as if I were being welcomed into the chef’s own kitchen.

Katsuya is a 10-minute walk from Tanjong Katong MRT. 

Katsuya—Eatbook review 

Now for the answer to the golden question—does Katsuya take the crown as the best tonkatsu in Singapore? As a big Tonshou fan and them long being my benchmark, Katsuya still edges it out for me, even if it’s less accessible and more costly. Tonshou’s heavily publicised charcoal-grilling method certainly offers something different, but enjoying tonkatsu in its purest and most authentic form is where Katsuya truly excels. Beyond that, the exceptional juiciness of the katsu and the overall experience elevate Katsuya to a level that feels even more refined.

If you’d like to pick your own winner for Singapore’s best tonkatsu, be sure to check out our Tonshou review before heading down for another try, and don’t forget our Shin Katsu review for another strong contender.

Address: 258 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437046
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12pm to 2:30 pm, 6pm to 9:30 pm
Website
Katsuya is not a halal-certified eatery. 

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Pictures taken by Nathania Tay.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg.