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After a long day dealing with an unexpected police investigation, what could be a better reward than indulging in some comfort food? For me, that meant heading straight to one of Seoul’s most talked-about culinary gems: Crazy Catsu (크레이지 카츠) in Hapjeong. Known as a haven for Donkatsu lovers and often hailed as one of the top 3 Donkatsu restaurants in Seoul, my expectations were incredibly high. Let’s dive into my experience at this celebrated eatery.

Why Crazy Catsu is Called the Donkatsu Mecca of Seoul

Crazy Catsu has earned a reputation that precedes it. It’s not just another Donkatsu place; it’s considered a pilgrimage site for those serious about their pork cutlets. Nestled in a rather unassuming residential alley in Hapjeong, this small restaurant is constantly buzzing with food enthusiasts. Despite its modest appearance, the flavors it delivers are anything but ordinary. Word of mouth and rave reviews online have cemented Crazy Catsu’s status as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the ultimate Donkatsu experience in Seoul.

Trying the Legendary ‘Tok Rosu Katsu’ (특 로스카츠)

On this visit, I was determined to try their most famous dish: the Tok Rosu Katsu (특 로스카츠), or special Rosu Katsu. Known for its limited daily availability (only around 30-40 servings a day!), getting to taste this premium cut is already a small victory. Alongside the Tok Rosu Katsu, I also opted for the Modum Set (모둠 정식) to sample a wider variety of their offerings. The Modum Set includes:

• Hire Katsu (히레 카츠): Tenderloin cutlet, made with lean and soft meat.
• Rosu Katsu (로스 카츠): Loin cutlet, a classic and flavorful Donkatsu option.
• Menchi Katsu (멘치 카츠): Minced meat cutlet, featuring a mix of vegetables and meat.

However, the star of the show was undoubtedly the Tok Rosu Katsu. From the first bite, it was clear why this dish is so revered. The pork was incredibly thick yet unbelievably tender. Even the slightly pinkish, undercooked center, which might deter some, was surprisingly smooth and melt-in-your-mouth. It wasn’t just Donkatsu; it felt like savoring high-quality pork in its purest, most delicious form.

Comparing Tok Rosu Katsu and Rosu Katsu

While both Tok Rosu Katsu and regular Rosu Katsu were exceptional, the Tok Rosu Katsu justified its ‘premium’ title with a richer flavor and even more succulent texture. The regular Rosu Katsu, part of the Modum Set, was also fantastic, but the Tok Rosu Katsu offered a slightly elevated experience, primarily due to the premium cut and perhaps a touch more careful preparation. If the Tok Rosu Katsu is sold out, don’t fret – the regular Rosu Katsu is still a top-tier choice!

Exploring Hire Katsu and Menchi Katsu

The Hire Katsu (tenderloin) was incredibly soft and lean, true to its nature. It was a delightful contrast to the richer Rosu Katsu. The Menchi Katsu, a minced meat cutlet, was like a gourmet version of a Korean “donggeurangttaeng” (meatball pancake). It was flavorful and enjoyable, especially for those who prefer a mix of meat and vegetables in their cutlet. However, for me, the Rosu Katsu varieties truly stole the spotlight, showcasing the pure, unadulterated taste of high-quality pork.

Location and Atmosphere

Crazy Catsu is located in Hapjeong, Seoul, tucked away in a quieter residential area. The restaurant itself is cozy and intimate, with a bar-style open kitchen and a few tables inside. Despite not visiting during peak hours, I noticed they have a convenient waiting system where you can register your phone number and receive a KakaoTalk notification when your turn is up. This is a great feature to avoid long queues during busy times.

Final Verdict: The Best Donkatsu Experience

Having tried Donkatsu from various places, I can confidently say that Crazy Catsu offers a Donkatsu experience that is truly in a league of its own. It reset my benchmark for what great Donkatsu should taste like. While I can’t definitively declare it the absolute ‘best’ in Seoul without trying every single contender, Crazy Catsu is undoubtedly the most impressive Donkatsu I’ve ever had. It has sparked my curiosity to explore other top Donkatsu spots like Jungdon in Gangnam and Yeon-dong Donkatsu in Jeju Island. For now, if you’re in Seoul and craving an unforgettable Donkatsu meal, Crazy Catsu in Hapjeong is an absolute must-visit.

Restaurant Information:

Location: Hapjeong, Seoul, South Korea

General Rating: Excellent