Discover the Hidden Delicacies of Autumn
As the leaves start to change, the culinary world shifts its focus to seasonal specialties. At Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, a well-known brand in Japan, the arrival of autumn means the unveiling of a unique dish that promises to redefine your culinary expectations. Launching on September 16, 2025, is the exclusive "Gyukatsu and Aki Hamo Katsudon". This dish brings together the rich flavors of premium beef and the much-revered Aki Hamo, an ingredient often overshadowed by its summer counterpart but celebrated for its superior taste in fall.
The Rise of Aki Hamo
While many think of Hamo (conger eel) as a summer delicacy, the truth is that Aki Hamo holds a far more exalted position in the culinary arts, especially in the Kansai region where it's dubbed "Aki Hamo" or "Nagori Hamo." Unlike the summer Hamo, which is notable for its light and refreshing taste, Aki Hamo is all about richness and depth.
What Sets Aki Hamo Apart?
The main difference between summer and autumn Hamo lies in their life cycle. As summer Hamo prepare for spawning, they are lean and offer a clean, subtle flavor that many chefs and diners adore. On the other hand, Aki Hamo have completed spawning and focus on building up fat reserves for winter, resulting in a fuller-bodied experience characterized by luscious textures and robust flavors.
- - Summer Hamo: Known for its firm, light, and refreshing character.
- - Aki Hamo: After spawning, it gains a richer taste due to increased fat content, providing a satisfying bite and depth.
Perfectly Crafted Autumn Dish
At Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, the focus is on serving only the finest Aki Hamo to ensure that diners get to experience the richest flavors of the season. Each piece is designed to achieve a perfect balance: crispy on the outside and succulently juicy on the inside thanks to fast frying techniques. Enjoy the luxurious combination of Gyukatsu—a specialty beef cutlet—and Aki Hamo, offering an unparalleled culinary adventure.
Flavory Accents
To complement the rich flavor of Aki Hamo, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu provides a special condiment: carefully crafted "Kankitsu Ume Ponzu." Its mellow acidity paired with a hint of sweetness, along with three refreshing garnishes—shiso leaves, myoga, and onions—enhance the overall dining experience by adding aromatic and crunchy texture. These toppings ensure that each bite remains exciting until the very last.
Menu Highlights
- - Dish Name: Gyukatsu and Aki Hamo Katsudon
- - Price: 1,690 yen (Tax included: 1,859 yen)
- - Extra Aki Hamo Cutlet: 690 yen (Tax included: 759 yen)
Availability
- - Sales Period: September 16, 2025, to mid-November 2025 (while supplies last). Note that end dates may vary based on store inventory.
- - Locations: Available at select stores throughout Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, and other regions.
Expect this seasonal feature to become a highlight of your autumn culinary adventures and a testament to the diversity and richness of Japanese cuisine.
About Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu
Founded with the mission to popularize "Gyukatsu" globally, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu is recognized as the leading Gyukatsu specialty restaurant in Japan. To share the essence of this new cuisine, the brand has expanded its reach to eight countries, including South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore, making it not just a local phenomenon but a global movement in Japanese dining.
For more detailed information on the menu offerings, please visit our official website:
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu
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Company Overview
Goriupu Corporation, which runs Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, is dedicated to enhancing Japanese food culture and is currently pushing for expansion with the ambitious goal of establishing 500 stores globally by 2033.