Katsu Hama
NYC's go-to for incredibly crispy and thick katsu, serving authentic Japanese comfort food in a no-frills setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shorter waits, fresher katsu
Katsu Hama
Best Time
Shorter waits, fresher katsu
Highlights
Must-see attractions
NYC's go-to for incredibly crispy and thick katsu, serving authentic Japanese comfort food in a no-frills setting.
"The katsu crust was really crispy and crunchy but meat was a bit dry."
🎯 Prioritize Katsu Over Sides
Stick to the katsu dishes; they're the stars! Some sides get mixed reviews.
⏰ Beat the Wait Times
Arrive before opening or during off-peak hours for shorter waits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Berkshire Pork Loin Katsu
Main Menu
Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy pork loin katsu that's a must-try for any visitor.
Chicken Katsu Curry
Main Menu
Crispy chicken katsu served with a delicious, slightly sweet curry sauce. A comforting classic.
Fried Shrimp
Appetizers/Sets
A highly recommended side that's as crispy and satisfying as the katsu itself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Crispiest Katsu
Focus on the Katsu, Explore Sides Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Prioritize Katsu Over Sides
Stick to the katsu dishes; they're the stars! Some sides get mixed reviews.
⏰ Beat the Wait Times
Arrive before opening or during off-peak hours for shorter waits.
👍 Ask for Toddler-Friendly Options
Staff are accommodating for families with young children.
💨 Ventilation Could Be Better
The restaurant can get a bit stuffy due to cooking smells.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Prioritize Katsu Over Sides
Stick to the katsu dishes; they're the stars! Some sides get mixed reviews.
⏰ Beat the Wait Times
Arrive before opening or during off-peak hours for shorter waits.
👍 Ask for Toddler-Friendly Options
Staff are accommodating for families with young children.
💨 Ventilation Could Be Better
The restaurant can get a bit stuffy due to cooking smells.
💰 Good Value for Portions
Generous portions make it a worthwhile meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Katsu Hama is a beloved Midtown spot celebrated for its exceptionally crispy and tender katsu, particularly the Berkshire pork loin and chicken katsu curry. While the main dishes are consistently praised, some diners have noted mixed experiences with appetizers and service speed during peak times. The generous portions and family-friendly atmosphere make it a solid choice for authentic Japanese comfort food.
"Casual katsu place in midtown. The katsu is very good, crispy not greasy, tender but with a nice chew. The fried shrimp is also really good. We ordered the sashimi salad and tofu agedashi. Both were served after we received our main dish, a timing issue. Either way I would skip both these dishes next time. The fish was fresh but the salad and dressing were meh. The tofu was a bit soggy. Stick to the katsu which comes with shredded cabbage that you douse with their homemade dressing that was very good. I got the katsu curry, curry was delish. Also tried the KATSUDON also very good. We had the Berkshire pork but you can opt for the regular pork if you want. Just rating the Katsu, would give it 5 stars"
Debbie Lowe (3jamigos)
"It was fine. You really couldn’t put your name on waitlist as they seat by table+size availability. This spot had decently large portions. I don’t love Katsu but people said it was very good. I liked that I could have a full meal if appetizers like agedasho tofu (recommend), eggplant, and okonomiaki. I wish the okonomiaki was a little less organized but recognize this spot is primarily a Katsu spot."
Jaye Aster Broder
"Came on a weeknight and had to wait 15-20min to be seated. Not sure if they take reservations but the wait was acceptable. (Although I wish there was another entrance or pick up spot for the online delivery because the entrance got crowded so quickly with ppl waiting to be seated and delivery guys waiting for their order)
We ordered the sashimi salad and was surprised how big the sashimi was cut. I ordered the 5th ave special and it didn’t disappoint. I love how it came with a side of raw cabbage to have some veggies with the fried food. Overall large in portion, friendly staff, and good food. I wish there was a ventilation system where there’s more air circulation!"
M K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Katsu Hama is conveniently located within a 20-minute walk from Grand Central Terminal. Simply head west on 47th Street, and you'll find it. It's a straightforward walk, making it an easy option for those arriving by train.
Yes, Katsu Hama is very accessible by public transport. It's located in Midtown Manhattan, and several subway lines stop nearby, including those serving Times Square-42nd Street and Grand Central-42nd Street stations.
If you're already in Midtown, Katsu Hama is likely within walking distance. It's situated on 47th Street, making it a convenient destination for lunch or dinner if you're exploring the area.
Katsu Hama does not have dedicated parking. As it's located in a busy Midtown Manhattan area, it's best to rely on public transportation or be prepared to find parking in a nearby commercial garage, which can be expensive.
While the katsu itself is prepared fresh, the wait times can be significant during peak hours. If you're looking for a very quick bite, consider visiting during off-peak times or exploring their delivery options if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Katsu Hama does not typically take reservations. They seat guests based on table availability and party size. Be prepared for a potential wait, especially during busy periods.
Katsu Hama generally operates during standard restaurant hours, typically open for lunch and dinner. It's always a good idea to check their most current hours online or by calling ahead, as they can vary.
Wait times can vary significantly. On weeknights, you might wait 15-20 minutes, while weekends can see longer queues. Arriving early or during off-peak hours is recommended to minimize waiting.
Yes, Katsu Hama offers online ordering and delivery. However, be aware that delivery order pick-ups can sometimes add to congestion at the entrance during busy times.
No, there is no cover charge or entrance fee at Katsu Hama. You only pay for the food and drinks you order.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Katsu Hama is most famous for its authentic Tonkatsu, particularly the Berkshire pork loin. Visitors rave about the crispy, tender katsu and the delicious chicken katsu curry. +1
The Berkshire Pork Loin Katsu Teishoku is highly recommended for its juicy flavor and good presentation. The Chicken Katsu Curry is also a favorite, praised for its crispiness and flavorful sauce. Don't miss the fried shrimp as a side!
The curry dishes receive mixed reviews. While some find the chicken katsu curry delicious and satisfying, others suggest skipping the curry and focusing on the katsu itself, as one reviewer found the curry acidic. +1
Agedashi tofu is recommended by some, though others found it a bit soggy. Fried oysters and eggplant are also mentioned as enjoyable options. The sashimi salad is fresh but the dressing is considered average by some.
Katsu sets typically come with shredded cabbage, which you can dress with their homemade dressing, and a side of soup. This provides a nice balance to the fried main dish.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic items are the beautifully plated katsu dishes, showcasing their crispy crust and thick cut. The vibrant colors of the chicken katsu curry and the fresh cabbage salad also make for appealing shots. +1
Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to take photos of your food at Katsu Hama. Many diners and food bloggers capture their meals to share online. Just be mindful of other diners and avoid obstructing service. +1
The lighting inside Katsu Hama is generally adequate for casual food photography, typical of a bustling restaurant environment. For best results, try to position your dish near a window if possible, or utilize your phone's flash sparingly.
The Berkshire Pork Loin Katsu, with its golden-brown, thick crust, is visually striking. The Chicken Katsu Curry, with its rich sauce and crispy topping, is also a popular subject for photos. +1
You can take photos of the restaurant's interior, but it's a no-frills, casual dining space. The focus is on the food, so most people capture their meals rather than the ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🥢 Foodies Seeking Authentic Katsu
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Katsu at Katsu Hama
Beyond the pork, their Chicken Katsu also receives praise for its crispiness. Many visitors enjoy the katsu served as part of a Teishoku (set meal), which typically includes rice, miso soup, and a generous portion of shredded cabbage. The homemade dressing for the cabbage is often mentioned as a delightful accompaniment, providing a fresh counterpoint to the fried main dish. The Katsu Curry is another popular choice, offering a comforting blend of crispy katsu and a flavorful, though sometimes debated, curry sauce.
While the katsu is the undisputed star, exploring other menu items can be a mixed bag. Some diners have found the agedashi tofu to be a bit soggy, and the sashimi salad, while fresh, may not impress those seeking exceptional sushi-grade quality. However, dishes like fried shrimp and eggplant are often cited as good additions to a meal, complementing the main katsu experience. Ultimately, Katsu Hama excels at delivering a classic, high-quality katsu experience in a no-frills setting.
Navigating the Katsu Hama Experience
The ambiance at Katsu Hama is best described as casual and no-frills. The focus is squarely on the food, with a straightforward dining environment. Some patrons have mentioned that the restaurant could benefit from better ventilation, as the cooking smells can be quite present. However, this is a minor point for many who prioritize the quality of the food. The portion sizes are generally considered generous, offering good value for the price, which aligns with the budget-friendly recommendations often found on Reddit for the area.
When it comes to service, experiences can vary. While many praise the friendly and accommodating staff, especially towards families with toddlers, a few reviews have pointed to slow service or a less-than-welcoming attitude from some servers. It's advisable to manage expectations regarding service speed during peak hours and to focus on the exceptional katsu that Katsu Hama is known for.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit