Early Summer Announcement (From May 1) — Two Proposals from Katsukichi Challenging the Notion that “Tonkatsu Doesn’t Sell in Summer”

At the tonkatsu specialty restaurant Katsukichi, we are pleased to present two summer seasonal offerings starting May 1, 2026: “Chilled Katsu-don” and the “Special Tonkatsu Set with Plum Sauce.”

In recent years, summers have grown increasingly severe—often described as extreme heat.
During such a demanding season, many feel a contradiction:

“I want something nourishing, yet I would rather avoid anything too heavy.”

These two dishes are our answer to that very sentiment.

 

 

■ Chilled Katsu-don

— Refreshing, yet deeply satisfying —

First introduced in 2002, this dish was created to meet a common summer feeling:
“Cold dishes are easy to eat, but often leave something to be desired.”

By pairing freshly fried tonkatsu with chilled Japanese dashi, and complementing it with seasonal vegetables, condiments, and grated yam, we have crafted a bowl that feels light while delivering genuine satisfaction.

Through continuous refinement, it has grown into one of our signature items, with approximately 10,000 servings sold annually and over 250,000 servings served to date.
Today, it stands as a cornerstone of Katsukichi’s summer menu.

 

 

■ Special Tonkatsu Set with Plum Sauce

— A gentle return to simplicity —

In a time overflowing with bold and complex flavors, this dish was born from a desire to return to the essentials.

We use low-sodium umeboshi from Minabe, Wakayama—produced using pesticide-free methods—featuring a mild salinity of approximately 3%, with a delicate acidity and fruit-like aroma.

After extensive refinement, we developed a plum sauce that enhances the natural richness of tonkatsu, resulting in a flavor that is both gentle and deeply nuanced.

In 2025, this item sold approximately 1,000 servings over four months across three locations.
It is currently offered as one of the signature trio of sauces served with our premium tonkatsu.

 

 

■ Why these dishes are chosen in summer

These two offerings provide a compelling reason to visit even during the hottest months, supporting better ingredient turnover, maintaining quality, and ensuring stable restaurant operations.

Against the conventional belief that “tonkatsu does not sell in summer,”
Katsukichi continues to present its quiet answer.

 

 

■ Product Details

Chilled Katsu-don (Pork Loin) – ¥2,400 (tax included)
https://www.bodaijyu.co.jp/news/21823/

Special Tonkatsu Set with Plum Sauce (Pork Loin) – ¥2,800 (tax included)
https://www.bodaijyu.co.jp/news/21825/

Available from May 1, 2026 (summer limited)
Available at all Katsukichi locations: Shin-Marunouchi Building, Hibiya International Building, Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C.

■ Closing

As the seasons change, so too does the way we experience food.

By continually reexamining the possibilities of tonkatsu,
Katsukichi remains committed to offering dishes that harmonize with the season.

■ Our Locations

Katsukichi Shin-Marunouchi Building
5F, Shin-Marunouchi Building, 1-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Katsukichi Hibiya International Building
B1F, Hibiya International Building, 2-2-3 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Katsukichi Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C.
6F, Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C. New Building, 2-5-1 Nihombashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Please note: The Shibuya location is temporarily closed for an extended period (until around 2030).