Carol S (石凱洛 Carol)
We found this restaurant online and loved it right away on our first visit! It was pretty busy that night and we waited about 30 minutes, but it was totally worth it. The food was amazing—each dish had its own unique flavor and you could really taste the quality. We’ll definitely come back next time we’re in Palm Desert. Big thanks to the super friendly owner for signing our son’s drawing ❤️
… moreJeanne Neylon Decker (Traveltawk)
Crunchy, perfect katsu, soothing ramen, and delicious rolls are the specialties at Katsuyama. Located in a Palm Desert shopping center, this casual Japanese-Korean eatery always delights. Service is attentive, and the restaurant is comfortable and family friendly. They serve wine, beer, soft drinks and tea. No reservations but the line goes quickly.
… moreBrady Stevens
Great atmosphere and kind service!
But the edamame looked like steamed edamame tossed in sriracha, they could do better than that. The miso pork soup was served way too hot, needed way less pork, and was way too heavy, the chicken bulgogi was served way too hot, had way too much chicken, and was under seasoned/marinated. The chicken was also overcooked and dry. I guess try the katsu here, but at least as of writing this, it is a gamble!
The ‘owner’ isn’t listening to many reviews over the years, and many of the their responses I saw here were generated by AI.
… moreHenry Chang
Tried the tempura shrimp ramen which the broth was felt to be under flavored. The tonkatsu was thick and juicy, would recommend this for sure. However I would like to see a set meal with curry+tonkatsu. As of now you need to order them separately.
… moreJimmy Thach
First time coming here while enjoying a weekend with friends and family here in the Desert. Great food and great ambience. Thank for accommodating our big party and sorry for our loud kids on this past Friday night.
… moreKenneth Martinson
I really wanted to love this place, but when I pay $70 for a meal, I want to be wowed by at least one thing. Everything was bland. Presentation was nice, and server was very nice, and selections are atypical and interesting and reminded me of things I have seen in Tokyo. If they can just figure out how to make the food taste good they will do much better.
… moreKate Ryan
this place is a hidden gem! my wife and i went for the first time last night and we will be back. my crunch roll was large and delicious and her ramen was perfectly spicy. our beers were extra cold — can’t beat that! can’t wait to try the katsu and bulgogi. our server was so sweet and the ambiance is very clean and modern but still warm and cozy. a great option for casual dining in the desert when you have people in your group who want sushi, ramen, and katsu. there’s something on the menu for everyone
… moreTyler S
Is the desert finally discovering Asian food? For the longest time the only type you can find was just sushi or Panda Express. Katsuyama fills that pork and chicken Katsu void that we have.
The ambiance and decor was done creatively. All food was excellent and just fine it the Katsu. Yes they have other items but why would you? My only complaint is the prices are kinda high. That’s my only reason for the downgrade. Other than that, it’s worth the try.
… moreHyunseok Gil
The restaurant had a clean and well-organized interior, creating a comfortable atmosphere.
The server was friendly, and the owner, who is also the chef, occasionally came out to check on the tables, giving the impression that the restaurant is well-managed.
I ordered the Tonkatsu, and my wife had the Pork Bulgogi.
The Tonkatsu was served with three different dipping sauces, all of which were delicious. The cutlet was crispy and very satisfying.
The Pork Bulgogi was also tasty, but the price felt a bit high.
Overall, it’s a great spot for enjoying well-prepared Japanese dishes in a clean and welcoming environment!
… moreJackie H
Nice atmosphere and good food. The Sashimi was delicious and beautifully presented. We also enjoyed the Edamame. Cucumber Salad was good and spicy. The service was good also.
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