A trendy izakaya bringing Japanese street food and the ultimate katsu sando to Milan
Intro
Milan has an endless obsession with Japanese cuisine, but while most people are still hunting down the city’s best sushi, the real ones know that street food is where the actual magic happens. Enter Katsusanderia Izakaya, a brilliant little spot nestled in Mercato Isola in Piazzale Lagosta, combining casual dining with a menu focused on sandwiches, fried bites, and shareable dishes.
After seeing it mentioned frequently online, we decided to stop by and see whether it lived up to the attention. The result is a spot that stands out for its focused menu with recognizable Japanese street food with a modern urban feel. For anyone looking for a casual alternative to a classic sit-down dinner, this is a spot worth noting.
The Vibe
Katsusanderia has a modern and informal atmosphere that fits well into the lively Lagosta area. The space feels simple, youthful, and easy to enjoy, whether you are stopping in for a quick lunch or meeting friends for dinner.
Even when busy, the service helps keep the experience comfortable and approachable. It has the feel of a neighborhood spot with a street-food identity, balancing fast-paced energy with a setting where people can still sit down, share plates, and stay a while.
The Food
The best-known item on the menu is the giapponese sandwich katsu sando, and for good reason. The classic pork version features crispy breaded cutlet served in soft shokupan bread, finished with tonkatsu sauce and mustard mayo. It is rich, satisfying, and easy to see why it has become the signature order. There are also other options, including chicken katsu and tamago sando (egg sandwich), for those who want something different.
The menu goes beyond sandwiches, with several side dishes that make the experience more complete. The chicken karaage is a solid choice if you want something savory and easy to share, while the fries in okonomiyaki style add a more playful, indulgent touch. Altogether, the menu feels compact but well built, with enough variety for both a quick meal and a more relaxed dinner.
The Verdict
Katsusanderia Izakaya offers one of the more interesting Japanese street food experiences in Milan, especially for those who want something casual, trendy, and a little different from the city’s many sushi-focused spots. Prices may feel slightly above average for sandwiches and sides, but the quality, presentation, and overall concept help justify it.
If you are in the mood for katsu sando, karaage, or Japanese comfort food in a contemporary setting, Katsusanderia Izakaya is a place worth trying. It is a good fit for a relaxed lunch, an easy dinner, or a casual meal with friends in one of Milan’s livelier areas.
Katsusanderia Izakaya
📍address: Piazzale Lagosta, 7, 20159 Milano
🌐 instagram: @katsusanderia
Have you tried Katsusanderia Izakaya yet? Let us know your opinion, and do not forget to bookmark chinatownmilano.it for more trendy eats around the city.