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If you’re visiting Niigata, tasting their iconic “tare katsudon” (sauce-covered cutlet bowl) is a must. Unlike traditional Japanese cutlet bowls topped with egg, Niigata’s unique version features crispy, thinly breaded pork cutlets paired with a soy sauce-based sweet and savory glaze, served over rice.
When talking about Niigata’s tare katsudon, you cannot miss the renowned 74-year-old establishment “Pork Cutlet Masachan.” Featured in the Michelin Guide in 2020, this long-established favorite has been loved by locals for its timeless flavors and affordable prices since its inception in 1948.
While Masachan has multiple branches across Niigata Prefecture, this article focuses on its flagship location in Nuttari. From its traditional taste to customizable menu options and its cozy Japanese ambiance, this restaurant offers the perfect setting to enjoy the best tare katsudon.
Pork Cutlet Masachan is a long-established restaurant specializing in Niigata’s local specialty, “tare katsudon.” Founded in 1948, it now has multiple locations, primarily in Niigata City. The Nuttari main branch, introduced here, was featured in the Michelin Guide in 2020.
Niigata’s tare katsudon is a unique take on Japan’s cutlet bowl that dates back to the early Showa period. Unlike the nationwide egg-topped version, this dish features thinly breaded pork cutlets dipped in a soy sauce-based sweet and savory glaze and served over rice.
This culinary tradition began in the 1930s in food stalls along the Nishibori River in Niigata, then a thriving port town. Initially popular as a modern Western-inspired dish, it has been a beloved part of Niigata’s food culture for over 90 years, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Tare Katsudon Niigata - Local Cuisine | Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries
Masachan’s tare katsudon is regarded as the originator of this delicacy. While it may not be the first stall to serve it, Masachan has carried on this tradition and is considered a pioneer in spreading its popularity across generations.
Here is the authentic tare katsudon served at Masachan.
Golden, crispy pork cutlets immediately catch your eye. The thin, light breading delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Infused with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce, the flavors perfectly balance sweetness and saltiness, leaving a refreshingly clean aftertaste that keeps you coming back for more.
The rice, made from Niigata’s premium Koshihikari, pairs exceptionally well with the sauce. The glaze seeps into the rice, ensuring every grain is as flavorful as the first bite.
One standout feature of Masachan’s tare katsudon is the ability to choose the number of cutlets. The photo above shows the three-cutlet bowl.
| Menu | Number of Cutlets | Price (incl. tax) |
|---|---|---|
| Special Cutlet Bowl | 5 | ¥1,771 |
| Regular Cutlet Bowl | 4 | ¥1,386 |
| Three - Cutlet Bowl | 3 | ¥1,133 |
| Mini Cutlet Bowl | 2 | ¥880 |
| Special Tenderloin Bowl | 5 | ¥2,398 |
| Regular Tenderloin Bowl | 4 | ¥1,892 |
| Three - Tenderloin Bowl | 3 | ¥1,518 |
| Mini Tenderloin Bowl | 2 | ¥1,133 |
The special cutlet bowl and special tenderloin bowl both feature five cutlets, offering a visually striking and hearty tare katsudon experience.
The restaurant interior exudes the charm of a classic Japanese dining establishment. The serene atmosphere allows guests to enjoy their meal at a leisurely pace.
With table seating as the main option, the restaurant also offers tatami-style seating and counter seats, making it accessible for families and solo diners alike.
The entrance features a small Japanese garden, adding a tranquil touch to the ambiance.
The restaurant has a parking lot in front of the building, accommodating about 10 vehicles.
However, weekends can get very crowded, often leaving the lot full. In such cases, you can use an additional 10 spaces reserved for Masachan customers at the multi-story parking lot of the adjacent “Pachinko N-1 Bandai.”
Details about the parking arrangement can be found on the official website.
Masachan’s tare katsudon is the epitome of deliciousness. Its crispy coating, juicy meat, and Niigata Koshihikari rice perfectly complement the special soy-based sauce, making it a dish locals are proud of.
With options ranging from two to five cutlets, you can tailor your meal to your appetite and budget, starting at just ¥880. Enjoy Michelin-quality flavors at an approachable price.
As a popular local spot, Masachan is often busy. Even at opening hours or during the late lunch hours around 2 PM, the restaurant can remain crowded, mainly with loyal locals rather than tourists.
Be sure to try Masachan’s tare katsudon, a dish steeped in 74 years of tradition.
