A Hidden Gem for Donkatsu Lovers: 카츠오모이 홍대점

A Hidden Gem for Donkatsu Lovers: 카츠오모이 홍대점

When I think about comfort food near Hanyang University, one place that immediately comes to mind is 카츠오모이 홍대점, a cozy little restaurant that serves one of the best donkatsu I’ve ever had. I first went there during my freshman year after a close friend recommended it, and ever since then, it’s been my go-to spot whenever I crave a high-quality, satisfying meal. Unlike many other places that prepare food in advance, here everything is cooked fresh to order. You can actually hear the sound of pork cutlets being sliced and fried right behind the counter which adds to the anticipation and makes the meal feel extra special.

The best part? The chef runs everything by himself from cooking to serving, so you get this intimate, almost chef’s table experience where you can see every step of the process. It’s not exactly “omakase” in the traditional Japanese sense (which usually involves a course-by-course menu picked by the chef), but the open kitchen and direct interaction give it a similar personal feel. You sit at the counter and watch your dish come to life from fresh meat to golden, crispy cutlet. It’s quiet, focused, and very different from the typical casual dining experience around campus.

And of course, the food speaks for itself. The donkatsu is incredibly tender with a crispy, light batter, and you get a small set of artisanal salt and sauces to customize each bite. One of my favorite moments is using the small spoon to sprinkle the salt, somehow, it makes the meal feel more intentional and elevated. Every dish is plated with care, and even the side dishes feel thoughtful. It’s a great place to treat yourself after a long day or take a friend somewhere a little more special than the usual student spots.

Details:

• 📍 Location: 카츠오모이 홍대점 – Naver Map
• 💸 Price Range: ₩13,000–₩15,000
• ⏰ Hours: Lunch and dinner service, limited seating—arrive early to avoid a wait
• 🍽️ Why It’s Special: Freshly cooked donkatsu by the chef himself, open kitchen vibe, tender meat, customizable seasoning experience

If you’re looking for a place where food meets craftsmanship, 카츠오모이 홍대점 is a must-visit. It’s more than a meal,it’s a whole experience!