A Crispy and Reliable Katsu Spot in Busan
If you’re staying near the Seomyeon area, you’ll find plenty of hotels and busy streets. But when it comes to a solid lunch option, Katsu-baek is a fantastic choice for authentic Japanese-style Tonkatsu.
The first thing you’ll notice here is the texture. The breading is incredibly crispy, providing that perfect “crunch” with every bite. I’ve visited Katsu-baek twice now to try their different specialties. On my first visit, I had the An-chi Katsu (Tenderloin + Cheese), and on my second, I went for the Ro-chi Katsu (Sirloin + Cheese).
Left: Ro-chi Katsu (Sirloin + Cheese) / Right: An-chi Katsu (Tenderloin + Cheese)
While both were delicious, there was a slight difference in style. The Sirloin (Ro-chi) felt a bit richer and heavier, whereas the Tenderloin (An-chi) was much leaner and savory. If you prefer a clean, 담백 (Dambaek) taste, I highly recommend going with the Tenderloin options.
When people think of Tonkatsu in Busan, Tonshou (톤쇼우) is usually the first name that comes to mind. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to try Tonshou yet, so I can’t provide a direct comparison. But stay tuned! Once I visit Tonshou, I’ll be sure to write a follow-up post comparing the two.
In addition to their katsu, I’ve heard many great things about their Cold Soba (Naeng-mamil). It’s highly recommended as a side dish to balance the richness of the fried pork. The cool, refreshing broth is said to be the perfect companion, especially if you’re visiting on a warmer day.
Because this restaurant is located in the heart of Seomyeon, surrounded by many hotels, it’s a very convenient spot for travelers. If you are wandering around Seomyeon and wondering what to have for lunch, Katsu-baek is a reliable recommendation that won’t disappoint.
It is also worth noting that Katsu-baek is a franchise. While I visited the Seomyeon branch, you can also find them in other parts of Busan, such as Daeyeon-dong. This is great to know if you are staying near Kyungsung University or the UN Memorial Park area. No matter which branch you visit, you can expect the same high quality and crispy texture.
