Katsu

- 197 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217

In the bustling and competitive dining scene of Brooklyn, it's a rare and wonderful thing to find a place that feels like a true hidden gem. Katsu, located at 197 5th Avenue in the heart of Park Slope, is exactly that. This family-owned Japanese restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, known for its delicious, honest food, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. While its name might suggest a focus solely on katsu—the Japanese deep-fried cutlet—the menu is a delightful exploration of Japanese comfort food that extends far beyond. It’s a place that embodies the spirit of a neighborhood eatery, where the owners are genuinely kind and the food is consistently excellent. For New Yorkers in search of authentic flavors and a cozy dining experience, Katsu is a must-visit spot that truly lives up to its glowing reputation.

The menu at Katsu is designed to provide maximum comfort and flavor at a reasonable price. The signature katsu dishes are, of course, a highlight. Whether you opt for the classic Chicken Katsu Meal or the savory Pork Katsu Curry, you’re guaranteed a perfectly cooked, crispy cutlet served with a satisfying side of rice and vegetables. But the offerings don't stop there. The menu also features a variety of other Japanese favorites, including chicken karaage (Japanese-style fried chicken), grilled salmon, and a range of delicious noodle soups. The curry dishes are particularly popular, offering a slightly spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the crispy katsu. From braised spare rib noodle soup to scrambled eggs and tomato rice bowls, the diverse menu ensures that every visit can be a new culinary adventure. The focus on generous portions and high-quality ingredients makes every meal feel like a great value, a fact that is consistently praised by loyal customers.

What sets Katsu apart from other Japanese restaurants in the city is the palpable sense of care and warmth. Customer reviews repeatedly highlight the kindness of the owners, who are often the only employees. This family-owned and operated vibe creates an atmosphere that is truly special—it feels like you're being welcomed into their home. The honesty in their pricing is another major draw, offering "extremely good prices" for the quality and quantity of food you receive. This combination of delicious, affordable food and genuine hospitality is a powerful one. It’s a place that locals want to "gate keep" out of a desire to keep it a secret, but also feel compelled to share because the owners are so deserving of the praise. This authentic connection with the community is a significant part of what makes Katsu a beloved spot.

The casual and relaxed atmosphere at Katsu makes it perfect for a variety of dining scenarios. It's an excellent choice for a quick, solo lunch when you need a moment of delicious solitude. It’s also a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or family. The fact that it's good for kids is an added bonus, making it a viable option for families looking for a delicious and easy meal out. The restaurant's accessibility is also a key feature, with its prime location on 5th Avenue making it easy to find for anyone in the Park Slope area. While parking is limited to paid street parking, the restaurant’s location and the convenience of its takeout and delivery options make it an accessible choice for everyone, no matter how they choose to get their food.

In a city full of dining options, what makes Katsu a standout is its simple, unwavering commitment to quality. The food is consistently delicious, the prices are honest, and the service is genuine and kind. It’s a place that doesn't rely on flashy decor or a trendy location to draw a crowd; instead, it relies on the strength of its food and the character of its owners. The loyalty of its local customers is the strongest endorsement one could ask for. They've discovered a place that offers fantastic portions of amazing tasting food with a family-owned vibe that is both rare and wonderful. For anyone in New York looking for an authentic and satisfying Japanese meal that feels like a true find, Katsu is the place to go. You seriously won't regret it.

Location and Accessibility

Katsu is located at 197 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA. This location puts it in the heart of the popular Park Slope neighborhood, a bustling area with a great food scene. The restaurant is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. For those arriving by car, paid street parking is available nearby. Its central spot on 5th Avenue makes it a convenient and visible destination for both locals and those passing through, solidifying its role as a key player in the area's culinary landscape.

Services Offered

• A wide variety of authentic Japanese comfort food, including katsu, noodles, and rice bowls.
• Dine-in seating for a casual and relaxed meal.
• Convenient takeout and delivery options for those on the go.
• Lunch and dinner service, catering to all meal times.
• Accepts reservations for planning a visit in advance.
• A menu that includes a range of offerings, from small plates to full-size entrees.
• Accepts major credit cards and debit cards for easy payment.

Features / Highlights

• Family-owned and operated, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.
• Known for delicious food with generous portions at honest prices.
• Specializes in katsu, with a variety of chicken, pork, and shrimp options.
• Offers a great selection of Japanese curries and noodle soups.
• Highly praised by locals as a "hidden gem."
• The atmosphere is casual, making it perfect for a relaxed dining experience.
• A good choice for solo diners and families with kids.

Contact Information

Address: 197 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA

Phone: (347) 335-0197

What is worth choosing

Choosing Katsu is choosing a genuine, high-quality dining experience without the inflated prices and pretension that can sometimes come with city restaurants. The primary reason to choose this spot is the food itself. Reviews consistently rave about the "amazing tasting food" and "great portions," which is a rare combination to find. The focus on classic Japanese comfort food, particularly katsu and curry, makes it a go-to spot for a satisfying meal that feels both authentic and familiar. The fact that the food is a great value for the price is a huge win for any New Yorker looking for an affordable yet delicious option. The honesty and quality of the dishes, from the crispy chicken katsu to the flavorful noodles, are what keep people coming back.

Equally compelling is the atmosphere and service. A customer's review speaks volumes, describing the owners as "kind" and "deserving of praise." This family-owned vibe creates a level of hospitality that is hard to find in a big city. The fact that customers want to "gate keep" the place is a powerful endorsement; it means they've found something so good they want to keep it to themselves, but they also want to share it because the owners are so wonderful. This is the kind of business that builds a community, one delicious meal at a time. The combination of excellent food, fair prices, and genuine kindness makes Katsu an easy and rewarding choice. For anyone looking for a reliable, tasty, and welcoming place to eat, Katsu is a hidden gem that is well worth seeking out.

Katsu

197 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA