Another Japanese tonkatsu specialised store arrives to Singapore, this time one which has a flagship at Roppongi and branch within Ginza.
The simple breaded deep fried pork dish has always been one of my favourite comfort food, though my luck with getting tender ones are about 50-50 in Singapore, with my more reliable sources being Katsuya at Katong, Tonkatsu Ma Maison, Tonkichi and Tampopo. What’s yours?
Imakatsu at The Star Vista has rather authentic ambience, a friendly Japanese staff taking orders (looks like the chef has to double up himself).
Serving times could be slower than expected. There was only two other tables filled in the relatively empty restaurant, and food took about 20 minutes to be served.
Tonkatsu generally falls under two main types: the rosu which is the loin with a layer of glistering fat along the edges, versus the hire fillet which is the leaner cut with less fat.
When in doubt, order the fattier one, aka the Tokusen Pork Loin Cutlet Zen ($19.80). A curry version ($19.80) is also available – which I also enjoyed.
I liked the pork loin. Well, it wasn’t earth-shattering, mind-blowing impressive (and my friend remarked he had better), but I can safely say Imakatsu’s was a dish of good quality tonkatsu – crispy and tender, especially along the sides with a layer of fats lining.
Their version may come across as thinner sliced, and not so chunky juicy oily. In another perspective, theirs tasted more delicate and healthier than the average.
The set also comes with free flow cabbage and rice, which we had to resist to finish our 3rd refill, complete with drizzling unstoppable goma sauce.
The Chicken Cutlet Zen ($14.80) was disappointingly on the dry side, but the Piyo Piyo Minced Meat Cutlet ($18.80) resembling British scotch eggs were a sight to behold for its deep yellow oozing yolk, and taste to reckon with.
Imakatsu has a special frying method and uses original blended oil which helps to seal in the full taste and aroma of the pork. The restaurant is slightly below radar, and its take of tonkatsu is worth a try.
Imakatsu Singapore
The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green #01-78-1, Singapore 138617 (Buona Vista MRT)
Tel +65 66946148
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm
Other Related Entries
Tonkatsu (Mandarin Gallery)
Tampopo Restaurant (Liang Court)
Arashi Yakiniku Charcoal Grill Restaurant (Boat Quay)
Sumire Yakitori House (Bugis Junction)
Bincho at Hua Bee (Tiong Bahru)
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