This eatery has recently gained traction on social media and has quickly become a popular spot since its opening in late January. Arriving just before 5 pm, I snagged the last seat for the first seating. With only walk-ins accepted and no reservations, the bustling atmosphere was surprising to witness so early in the evening.

Opting for the Pork Striploin Cut katsu with Japanese Curry Sauce, I also ordered miso and rice, as they don’t come with the katsu. The short wait indicated they likely keep cooking the pork katsu, anticipating orders. The dish arrived with a big, thick piece of pork and a generous portion of thinly sliced cabbage lightly dressed, along with mustard and pickled daikon on the side. On the table, there was also additional dressing for the cabbage if you wanted more, which I appreciated and did have. The cabbage added a satisfying crunch and could suffice as a filling option without rice if you were not that hungry. The pork was thick and tender with a crisp, lightly coated skin, emitting a delightful sound when running chopsticks over it. Dip it into the Japanese curry sauce, and the flavours harmonise beautifully, enhanced further with a touch of mustard. The pickles provided a delightful tanginess to the dish, complementing the outstandingly cooked pork. The miso was equally enjoyable, striking the perfect balance of flavours without being overly salty.

It’s no wonder people queue up for this place. As I left, there was already a line of 20 to 30 eager diners waiting outside. The service was exceptional, as expected from a Japanese eatery. A definite must-visit when in Melbourne.

Instagram Account: Katsuretsu Co