Tarekatsu Don

Tarekatsu don is a signature rice bowl of Niigata City, made by dipping thinly fried cutlets in a sweet savory soy sauce and laying them over rice. Unlike the common cutlet bowl bound with egg, its light flavor puts the fragrant sauce and crisp coating at center stage.

Highlights

Dipping each piece quickly in the sauce lets the sweet savory flavor soak nicely into the coating, pairing well with rice. The thin cutlets are never too heavy, and servings stacked two or three high are still satisfying. Comparing the sauces handed down at old style diners and Western restaurants is one of the pleasures.

Enjoying the Seasons

It is a year round staple, but in the outing season it is also popular as a boxed lunch. Gathering around takeaway tarekatsu don during local events or cherry blossom viewing is a scene typical of Niigata.

Access and Basic Information

Around Niigata Station and the Furumachi district, many shops serve tarekatsu don. Stroll through the city and drop into a place that catches your eye.

A Quick Tip

It is best to fully savor the rice that has soaked up the sauce too. Lift one cutlet and eat it together with the rice beneath for an especially fine taste.