“Little Hu Tianlan” Zeng Ziyu’s favorite restaurant has to be this one—tonkatsu rice from Japan!

 Reporter Hua Shaofu / Taipei Report

Celebrity Zeng Ziyu is often dubbed “Little Hu Tianlan.” Despite his young age, he earned praise from Xiao S after appearing on “Kangxi Lai Le” to introduce food, and his taste in cuisine has been trusted by many ever since. Through the show “Foodie Traveler – Stay Overnight,” he traveled across Taiwan with his mentor Huang Denghui. Today, he’s here to introduce his favorite tonkatsu restaurant: “Kobe Kihbei Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl.”

▲ Zeng Ziyu’s joyful expression says it all as he enjoys Kihbei’s special pork cutlet rice bowl. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yukang)

“Who says Kobe is only about steak? It has tonkatsu too!” This Kihbei pork cutlet rice bowl shop has been around for over 40 years and is beloved by many foodies. It has recently made its first debut in Taiwan from Japan, opening a store in the bustling Xinyi District. The long red chairs at the entrance are for waiting customers—proof of its popularity. Now, let’s take a look at the three most recommended pork cutlet rice bowls on the menu!

▲ Zeng Ziyu said that this place usually requires queuing, so he’s really happy to get to eat here today. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yukang)

Kihbei Special Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl
This is the signature dish of the shop, with a flavor somewhat reminiscent of oyakodon.<饭，秉持1979年创店以来的原始风味，是以私房高汤精心熬煮入味，加上半熟的滑嫩蛋液，每一口都是吃不腻的清爽甘甜，特调的酱汁均匀地撒在米白饭上，香气逼人，加上香葱，颜色也非常地搭调，“我刚刚在吃的时候，原本以为只是厚切的里肌，咬下去除了很嫩之外，还有一点巧思的是，他还带一点筋跟肥肉的部分，所以滋润度非常的香，我吃下去真的超崩溃。”曾子余笑着说。

▲ The egg mixture in Kihbei’s special pork cutlet rice bowl looks incredibly appetizing. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yukang)

Classic Japanese Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl
The staff recommend trying the pork cutlet plain first, then tasting the rice underneath along with the already sprinkled shredded cabbage—it helps cut down the greasiness, and the refreshing crunch of the vegetables balances your palate. Mixing in a half-boiled onsen egg and the crisp cabbage makes the flavor even richer and more aromatic. Staff also suggest stirring the egg into the rice for an even more intense aroma that will have you eating bite after bite.

▲ The classic Japanese pork cutlet rice bowl has an incredibly rich aroma. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yukang)

Korean Spicy Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl
This one is more suited for those who enjoy bold flavors. Though it’s called Korean spicy pork cutlet rice bowl, it’s not actually very spicy—in fact, it leans slightly sweet. Topped with mayonnaise, it enhances the aroma of the pork cutlet. This bowl also comes with shredded cabbage and an onsen egg, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory pork cutlet, fully satisfying your taste buds.

▲ The Korean spicy pork cutlet rice bowl is sweet with a hint of spice. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yukang)

It’s worth mentioning that if you find the flavor not strong enough, the shop thoughtfully offers “Ichimi powder” and “sansho pepper.” Ichimi is spicy and perfect for those who love heat, while sansho offers a unique fragrance. And just like at the original shop in Japan, the pickled Japanese radish is equally delightful. No wonder such flavors leave “egg-loving” Zeng Ziyu so unforgettable!

▲ Zeng Ziyu’s absolute favorite is this pork cutlet rice bowl. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yukang)

Kobe Kihbei Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl

Address: No. 22, Songshou Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City
Phone: 02 2723 3313
Business Hours: 11:00–21:00

“ETtoday Dongsen News Cloud” is currently collaborating with the shop for an interview and promotional event
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