Konkuk Univ. katsu shop: mixed katsu set and lotus root tempura, Kosi

When the weather turns chilly, or you're just craving a hearty Japanese meal, you start dreaming of proper tonkatsu, crispy outside and juicy inside, with a steaming bowl of chewy udon on the side, right? In the lively Konkuk Univ. area, packed with great restaurants, I visited a hidden gem that wins over all ages with real Japanese-style care and skill. It's Kosi Konkuk University Branch (코시 건대), known for neat set meals and crispy fried dishes! I'll go through the cozy atmosphere and honest reviews of what we ordered.

Where is Kosi Konkuk University Branch?

Kosi Konkuk University Branch is near Konkuk Univ. Station, the transfer station for Subway Lines 2 and 7, at 197 Achasan-ro, 1st floor, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, South Korea, so it's very easy to reach by public transport. It sits in a food alley within an easy walk of the station exits, which makes it a great spot for a date or for meeting friends.

What's on the menu at Kosi Konkuk University Branch?

The full menu is posted in front of the shop, and there's a real variety: katsu, udon, even donburi rice bowls. The special fried items seem to be the most popular here!

Is Kosi Konkuk University Branch good for eating alone?

Kosi has tables for 2–4 people plus counter seats, so eating alone feels completely comfortable. Inside, the calm, warm wood-tone interior blends with neatly arranged tables and counter seats. With the lively energy you can sense beyond the open kitchen and the friendly staff, it was easy to relax and focus on the meal the whole time.

How was the mixed katsu set at Kosi?

Without hesitation, our first main order that day was the mixed katsu set. It arrived neatly arranged on a big tray, and the bright, golden-brown coating, fried in clean oil, was impressive right away.

The mild, tender tenderloin and the chewy, rich loin were a perfect pair, and I could tell right away why this place has a reputation as a Konkuk Univ. tonkatsu spot. The broth that comes with the set was clean yet deeply savory, and with the firm noodles it showed why this is a good udon place near Konkuk Univ. too.

Is the lotus root tempura side worth ordering?

Our special side with the mixed katsu set was lotus root tempura (연근 덴뿌라), the very essence of crispiness. Inside the thin, crunchy batter, the lotus root's signature crisp texture was fully intact, and it worked as a great accent between bites of the meal. It wasn't greasy, just lightly fried, so the root's gentle sweetness and nutty flavor stood out, and a light dip in the tentsuyu (tempura dipping sauce) made the fried flavor even better.

How to enjoy katsu more: fresh wasabi and salt

The hearty meatiness of the mixed katsu and the light crunch of the lotus root tempura went together so well that I never got tired of it, right to the last piece. The warmth of freshly fried katsu, cooked to order, and the filling set meal recharged me in the middle of a busy day. Besides the regular sauce, a little fresh wasabi and salt boosts the natural flavor of the meat, so you can enjoy it to the last bite.

Kosi Konkuk University Branch in one line

If you want crispy, juicy handmade katsu, clean udon broth and crunchy tempura made with real care, stop by on your next trip to Konkuk Univ. I recommend Kosi for a filling, no-fail Japanese meal!