Hold onto your chopsticks—Japan’s iconic gyukatsu specialty shop is now in Manila, and it’s set to take the dining scene by storm. The famous Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu from Kyoto is now n soft opening at SM Mall of Asia, while a second branch will open late this year in SM North. Prepare your taste buds for an exciting, sexy new way to enjoy beef.

What is gyukatsu? Imagine the crispy, golden perfection of tonkatsu, but with a tender, juicy beef instead of pork. Invented in Kyoto, gyukatsuu features tender beef cutlets expertly deep-fried to a golden crispy exterior while remaining juicy and succulent inside.

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Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu observes three rules to achieve the perfecct gyukatsu. First, only the highest quality beef is used to ensure the best flavor and taste experience. Second, the koromo or batter is made with extra refined panko breadcrumbs—ten times thinner than regular, to lock in the juice and drain out excess oil to get that perfect balance of oil and crispiness. Third, frying is done at higher temperatures and short duration to allow the umami richness of the beef to come out.

We even love how it’s cooked in traditional stone grill, with a variety of sauces to enhance the flavors. This is an experience that will transport you straight to Kyoto, no travel needed.

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Photos courtesy of Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu