Sometimes hard work and determination really do pay off. That is the case with Evil Katsu, a dynamite sandwich shop on the Lower East Side. The three partners, Chris, Hai and Asher, found themselves out of jobs during the pandemic, so they created their own jobs. Working out of a pop-up in the back of Pretty Ricky’s when most businesses were shut down they looked to their favorite late-night snack on St Marks for inspiration, katsu, which is basically a fried Japanese-style cutlet. Only these guys and gal have managed to perfect it. They found a space on East 9th Street, which already had some restaurant equipment, spruced it up and now Evil Katsu has a permanent home.
Photos: Cititour.com
The sandos, which are truly the stars of the menu, should not be missed. It begins with light-as-air milk bread, upon which the cutlet sits, house marinated twice-fried center cutlet, nori kewpie, and surround with shredded red cabbage and carrot. It arrives with a side of house pickles. Pork, chicken and Portobello sandos are available. The katsu can also be purchased in a bento box with choice of 2 sides, garlic rice and tonkatsu sauce. Also on the menu are several types of salads, chilled udon with tomatoes and chicken katsu bites. Seating is limited with just a few seats at a window counter and curbside.
Evil Katsu is located at 435 East 9th Street, NY (646) 370-3435
For more information, visit evilkatsu.com
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