A Complete Guide to Katsu by Konban - A Renowned Japanese-Style Tonkatsu Restaurant in Apgujeong, Known as One of Seoul's Top 3 Katsu Spots

Basic Information

Katsu by Konban (KATSU BY KONBAN) is a Japanese-style tonkatsu specialty restaurant near Dosan Park in Apgujeong, opened in November 2019. It was separated from Konban in Jangandong to focus solely on katsu. Located across from Dosan Park, it is an 8-minute walk from Exit 5 of Apgujeong Rodeo Station, making it easily accessible.

Address

1st Floor, 36 Seolleung-ro 153-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Sinsa-dong 647-22)

Phone Number

0507-1332-3903 / 02-547-3903

Public Transport

8-minute walk from Exit 5 of Apgujeong Rodeo Station on the Suin-Bundang Line

Parking

Valet parking service available (Parking fee: 3,000 KRW)

Operating Hours and Reservation Information

Regular Holiday: Last Monday of every month

Reservation Method: Remote queueing supported via the Tabling app (waiting available within a 2km radius, on-site waiting also possible)

Waiting Tips: Arriving 15-20 minutes before opening can significantly reduce waiting time, and it is recommended to arrive 1 hour and 30 minutes before the end of break time.

Menu and Price Information

Side Menu:

• Karaage (Chicken) - 8,000 KRW
• Hitokuchi Curry - 3,500 KRW
• Potato Salad - 6,000 KRW
• Beverages like Fresh Lemon Sour, Fresh Lemonade

Set Composition: Includes rice, tonjiru (miso soup), pickled cabbage, tonkatsu sauce, salt, yuzu sesame salad dressing

Detailed Information on Signature Dishes

Rosukatsu (Loin)

As the signature menu of Katsu by Konban, it features a thick loin that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is served medium rare with a slightly pink hue, and despite being loin, it is known for its tender texture.

Hirekatsu (Tenderloin)

This menu uses tenderloin, offering an even softer texture than Rosukatsu. It has less fat, so the crispiness of the batter lasts longer, making it a highly recommended dish by many patrons.

Mix Katsu

This menu allows you to enjoy both Rosukatsu and Hirekatsu, making it a recommended choice for first-time visitors to compare the different textures of the two cuts.

Store Environment and Facilities

Katsu by Konban adopts an open kitchen system, allowing you to watch the cooking process, and all seats are arranged in a bar table format. With a total of 23 seats, it is a relatively small space but boasts a pleasant and clean atmosphere.

Seating Arrangement: 23 bar table seats (counter seats)

Store Features: Open kitchen, trendy Japanese-style interior, suitable for solo dining

Convenience Facilities: Wireless internet, baby chairs available

How to Enjoy Your Meal

The tonkatsu at Katsu by Konban is not pre-seasoned, allowing you to enjoy it in various ways:

• Salt: The best way to taste the natural flavor of the meat
• Tonkatsu Sauce: A sweet sauce provided as standard
• Mustard: For those who want a spicy kick
• Wasabi: Available upon request, for a cleaner taste

Recommended Combination: Many reviews suggest that the rich curry pairs well with the tonkatsu when eaten with Hitokuchi Curry. Karaage is also a popular side menu recommendation.

Usage Guide and Tips

How to Minimize Waiting

• Arrive 15-20 minutes before opening on weekdays
• On weekends, it is recommended to arrive 1 hour and 30 minutes before the end of break time
• Utilize the Tabling app for remote queueing (within a 2km radius)
• Pre-ordering is possible during waiting, allowing for quick serving once seated

Ordering Tips

• For two people, it is recommended to order both Rosukatsu and Hirekatsu to compare and taste
• For solo dining, single orders are sufficient instead of sets
• Additional rice and tonjiru cost 4,000 KRW (difference between set and single)

Things to Note When Visiting

• Card payment is recommended over cash payment
• Be cautious of losing your place in line if you leave the waiting area
• Check for regular holidays on the last Monday of every month

Delivery and Takeout Service

Katsu by Konban offers takeout services, with curry included in the TO-GO menu. However, due to the nature of tonkatsu, it may lose some crispiness compared to eating it immediately in the store, so dining in is recommended if possible.

Surrounding Information and Accessibility

Located across from Dosan Park, you can enjoy a park stroll after your meal, and it is also close to the Apgujeong Rodeo shopping area, making it a great spot to visit along with shopping. There are many cafes and various eateries nearby, making it a popular date course.

Nearby Attractions: Dosan Park, Apgujeong Rodeo shopping area, Galleria Department Store

Recommended Visit Purposes: Solo dining, dates, small gatherings

Latest Information and Changes

As of 2024, some menu prices have been adjusted, and the Tabling system has been further stabilized, improving waiting management. Break times and operating hours may change, so it is recommended to check the official SNS or call before visiting.

Official SNS: Instagram @konban_universe