In the quiet backstreets of Hoegi-dong, just a few minutes’ walk from Kyung Hee University, lies a small but immensely popular Japanese-style cutlet restaurant called Katsu Iroha (카츠이로하). Despite its humble size and limited seating, this place commands a serious following—particularly among university students who swear by its crispy, juicy tonkatsu and comforting set meals. I had long heard about the place and finally decided to visit—and yes, the rumors are true: it’s one of those hidden gems that instantly makes you want to return.
From the moment I stepped inside Katsu Iroha, I felt like I had been transported to a quiet Japanese eatery. Katsu Iroha’s space is minimal but tasteful, with counter seating surrounding an open kitchen. You can hear the sizzle of pork cutlets as they hit the fryer and smell the rich aroma of tonkatsu sauce drifting through the air. The seating is limited to about 10, which adds to its quiet, focused vibe—but also explains why the line outside builds up so quickly.
I ordered the Tenderloin Cutlet Set (안심카츠정식), which costs ₩13,000. It came with finely shredded cabbage, miso soup, perfectly steamed rice, pickles, and even a small glass of plum tea to finish. The pork was cooked to perfection—tender, flavorful, and surrounded by an incredibly crispy panko crust. It was one of the most balanced and satisfying tonkatsu meals I’ve had in Seoul.
For those who prefer a richer cut, the Loin Cutlet Set (등심카츠정식) at ₩12,000 offers a satisfying bite with a bit more fat and juiciness. Cheese lovers will fall in love with the Cheese Cutlet Set (치즈카츠정식), priced at ₩14,000, featuring gooey, melted cheese tucked inside a golden crust. If you’re hungry or want to share, the Assorted Cutlet Sets (모듬카츠A/B정식) give you a variety of pork cuts for ₩16,000–₩18,000, and the Iroha Special Set (이로하정식), at ₩30,000, is a premium experience.
It’s worth noting that Katsu Iroha is especially popular with Kyung Hee University students, many of whom consider it a “must-visit” after class or exams. Because of this, lunchtime sees long waits, particularly between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM. There have been times I walked all the way there, only to turn back because the line was just too long. If you want to dine in peace, visiting during the late afternoon or early evening is ideal.
Interestingly, the area around Kyung Hee University is becoming a hotspot for Japanese-style cutlet shops, and the competition is growing. Newer places with stylish interiors and creative menus are popping up nearby. But Katsu Iroha maintains its reputation thanks to its unwavering focus on craftsmanship and consistency. It’s not flashy—it’s simply well-made, deeply satisfying food served with care.
With seasonal noodle dishes like Cold Soba (냉모밀, ₩9,000) in the summer and Pork Soup Udon (돈지루멘, ₩9,000) in the winter, plus side options like Sweet Potato Cheese Croquettes (고구마치즈코로케 2개, ₩3,000) or Mini Curry (미니카레, ₩2,000), you can customize your meal to your liking. Takeout is also available, so if you can’t get a seat, you can still enjoy it on the go.
Katsu Iroha Information
Address: 8, Gyeongheedae-ro 1ga-gil, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
(서울 동대문구 경희대로1가길 8, 회기동 42-60)
Phone: +82 507-1324-2844
Opening Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Break: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Sat: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays
Payment: Cash & card accepted
Takeout: Available
Parking: Limited (1–2 spots beside restaurant; public transport recommended)
Katsu Iroha Menu Highlights
- Tenderloin Cutlet Set (안심카츠정식): ₩13,000
- Loin Cutlet Set (등심카츠정식): ₩12,000
- Cheese Cutlet Set (치즈카츠정식): ₩14,000
- Assorted Cutlet A/B Sets (모듬카츠A/B정식): ₩16,000–₩18,000
- Iroha Special Set (이로하정식): ₩30,000
- Cold Soba (냉모밀): ₩9,000
- Pork Udon (돈지루멘), Regular Udon (우동): ₩9,000
- Mini Curry (미니카레): ₩2,000
- Shrimp Toast (멘보샤츠 2개): ₩4,000
- Sweet Potato Cheese Croquette (고구마치즈코로케 2개): ₩3,000