Katsu Katsu (Newmarket, Auckland, New Zealand)

Katsu Katsu in Newmarket offers authentic Japanese katsu dishes, udon, and more in a cosy, modern setting. A must-visit for crispy, fried delights.  Crispy, juicy, and full of flavour—Katsu Katsu brings the best of Japanese katsu to Newmarket! From pork katsu to prawn tempura udon, every bite is a delight. Don’t miss this hidden gem. #JapaneseCuisine #KatsuLovers #AucklandEats #HiddenGem

If you’re a fan of crispy, deep-fried proteins, Katsu Katsu in Newmarket is a must-visit. This Japanese restaurant, brought to you by the same team behind the acclaimed Waku Waku and Cocoro, specialises in tonkatsu—a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet that’s a staple of Japanese cuisine. With its focus on perfectly executed katsu dishes, Katsu Katsu offers a dining experience that’s both authentic and approachable. Here’s why this spot is worth adding to your foodie bucket list.

The Ambiance

Katsu Katsu is a cosy, 30-seat restaurant located on Khyber Pass Road, right next to Selera Malaysian Restaurant. The space is long and narrow, with a mix of high stools at the bar and a few tables at the front. The black walls and minimalist decor echo the sleek aesthetic of Waku Waku, creating a modern yet intimate atmosphere. Sitting at the counter allows you to watch the chefs in action, which adds a fun and interactive element to the dining experience. Be prepared to wait during peak hours—this place is popular, and for good reason.

The Food

The menu at Katsu Katsu is focused and well-curated, with a variety of katsu dishes, udon, and small snacks. Here’s what we tried:

Katsu Toji Teppan (NZ$30.00): This dish features tender pork katsu served on a cast-iron plate with a lightly beaten egg poured over the top. The pork was juicy and flavourful, with a perfectly crispy panko crust. The egg added a rich, velvety texture that complemented the dish beautifully.

Prawn Tempura Udon (NZ$20.00): A comforting bowl of Sanuki-style udon noodles in a light broth, topped with crispy black tiger prawn tempura. The noodles had a nice chew, and the tempura was light and not greasy.

Kishi Men Udon (NZ$19.00): This udon dish is served in a briny clam broth with prawn and squid tempura. The broth was deeply flavourful, though some might find it slightly salty. I loved its rich, umami-packed taste, which paired perfectly with the tempura.

Asahi Super Dry Tap (NZ$9.00): The perfect drink to wash down the rich, crispy dishes. Cold, refreshing, and just what we needed.

The Highlights

The Katsu Toji Teppan was the star of the meal. The pork was tender and juicy, with a crispy exterior that stayed crunchy even under the egg topping. The Prawn Tempura Udon was a close second, offering a comforting and well-balanced dish. The free refills of rice, miso soup, and cabbage salad (a practice called “okawari” in Japan) were a nice touch, making the meal feel even more generous and satisfying.

The Service

The staff at Katsu Katsu were friendly and attentive, ensuring our dining experience was seamless. Despite the restaurant being busy, the service remained efficient and welcoming. If you’re planning to visit during peak hours, it’s worth leaving your number and exploring the nearby shops while you wait for a table.

The Verdict

Katsu Katsu is a hidden gem in Newmarket, offering some of the best katsu dishes in Auckland. The focus on quality ingredients, authentic flavours, and generous portions makes it a standout. Whether you’re a katsu enthusiast or new to Japanese cuisine, this restaurant is sure to impress. Don’t miss the chance to experience this near-perfect version of a Japanese katsu house.

Katsu Katsu
Address: 483 Khyber Pass Road, Newmarket, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katsukatsu.newmarket/