Katsudonya Saiko takes katsudon to another level by using premium ingredients and a refined cooking technique that enhances both texture and taste. Unlike typical katsudon, which often becomes soggy as it absorbs the dashi-egg mixture, their version stays crispy while still carrying the rich, umami-filled flavors of traditional katsudon.
A key factor in this is the use of larger pork loins than what is commonly found in other katsu restaurants. The thicker cut ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender, even after being deep-fried. The natural marbling in the pork enhances its flavor, making each bite more satisfying. When cooked properly, the result is a balance of moist, flavorful meat wrapped in a crunchy, golden-brown crust.
The breading itself is another major highlight. Katsudonya Saiko uses freshly made breadcrumbs instead of pre-packaged panko, resulting in a lighter yet crispier coating. This process ensures that the exterior remains delicate yet shatteringly crisp when bitten into. The restaurant’s unique frying and cooking technique allows the breading to retain its crunch, even when topped with sauce and egg, setting it apart from traditional katsudon, where the crust often softens too quickly.
The katsudon’s sauce and egg topping are carefully balanced to complement the katsu without overpowering it. Instead of fully submerging the cutlet, the egg and dashi mixture are added in a way that allows the flavors to seep in while preserving the crisp texture. The sauce has the right balance of sweetness, savoriness, and umami, perfectly coating the katsu and rice without making the dish feel too heavy.
Beyond the technique, the rice plays a crucial role in tying everything together. Katsudonya Saiko uses premium Japanese rice, cooked to a soft yet slightly chewy consistency. The grains absorb just the right amount of sauce, creating a harmonious mix of flavors and textures when eaten with the katsu.
For those looking for an elevated katsudon experience, Katsudonya Saiko also offers Grass-fed Tenderloin Brazil Katsudon, which features a high-quality beef cut that is exceptionally tender and flavorful. The beef katsu provides a different but equally satisfying take on the dish, with a deeper, richer taste compared to the classic pork version.
📍 Location & Pricing
📌 Location: Mitsukoshi Mall, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig
💰 Pricing:
- Hire Katsudon (Pork Fillet Katsudon): ₱445
- Gyukatsu (Beef Katsu Katsudon): ₱685
- Grass-fed Tenderloin Brazil Katsudon: Premium pricing, varies
Katsudonya Saiko’s approach to katsudon is a game-changer for katsu lovers. By using larger cuts of meat, fresh breadcrumbs, and a new cooking technique that retains crispiness, they offer a version of katsudon that is both rich in flavor and perfect in texture. This is a must-try for anyone who appreciates Japanese cuisine and wants to experience katsudon in its most refined and satisfying form.