Misokatsu Umenoki is a hidden gem in Kurashiki, Okayama, offering a unique take on traditional Japanese tonkatsu. Known for its oven-baked miso sauce cutlets, this small yet charming restaurant has been delighting locals and tourists alike for over 40 years. In this review, I’ll share my dining experience, the highlights of the menu, and why it’s worth a visit.
How to Get to Misokatsu Umenoki
Located in the heart of Kurashiki, Misokatsu Umenoki is just a short 20-minute JR train ride from Okayama Station. From Kurashiki Station, it’s an easy 6–7 minute walk along the main road heading toward the Bikan Historical Quarter.
📍 Address:
2 Chome-19-3 Achi, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-0055, Japan
The restaurant is easy to spot and surrounded by a well-kept neighborhood that blends traditional charm with modern development.
First Impressions
Misokatsu Umenoki has a cozy atmosphere that immediately feels welcoming. At the entrance, you’ll notice memorabilia from the restaurant’s appearances on TV, a testament to its reputation. While the interior is modest, it’s well-maintained, with a mix of private and open seating options. For larger groups, a traditional Japanese-style room is available.
The Menu at Misokatsu Umenoki
The menu is simple yet curated to showcase their signature dishes. The star of the show is the Misokatsu Set Meal for 1,100 yen. Notably, the price hasn’t increased over the years, making it an excellent value for the quality offered.
What makes their misokatsu stand out is its preparation: the cutlets are baked in the oven instead of deep-fried, using specially crafted breadcrumbs. This healthier approach not only reduces the greasiness but also highlights the natural flavors of the meat and the miso sauce.
The Dining Experience
The Misokatsu Set Meal includes:
- Four round misokatsu pieces
- Shredded cabbage
- Pickled vegetables
- Miso soup
- Rice
The first thing you’ll notice is the unique circular shape of the cutlets—a rarity even in Japan. The meat is tender and juicy, with a slightly firm texture that provides a satisfying bite. The miso sauce is rich, slightly sweet, and incredibly flavorful, adding depth to every bite.
The cabbage, served plain, pairs beautifully with the miso sauce, doubling as both a salad and a palate cleanser. The pickled vegetables, reminiscent of Korean-style kimchi, offer a refreshing counterbalance to the meal’s richness.
The miso soup is another highlight, with a deep umami flavor that complements the rest of the set perfectly. Together, these components create a balanced and memorable dining experience.
What Makes Misokatsu Umenoki Special
- Unique Preparation: Oven-baked cutlets are a healthier, innovative twist on traditional tonkatsu.
- Rich Miso Sauce: The thick, flavorful sauce is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.
- Consistency: Despite its long history, the restaurant has maintained its quality and affordability.
- Ambiance: The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a delightful spot to enjoy a meal.
Final Thoughts
As a fan of Japanese cuisine, I’ve visited many tonkatsu restaurants over the years, but Misokatsu Umenoki remains one of my favorites. The combination of unique flavors, traditional cooking methods, and warm hospitality makes it a standout destination in Kurashiki.
Whether you’re a tonkatsu enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable dining experience in Okayama, Misokatsu Umenoki is well worth a visit. With its nostalgic charm and consistently excellent food, it’s a place I’ll happily return to again and again.
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