Grill Bon

Katsu sandos are one of Tokyo’s many tourist trap items and can be seen on menus for a disgraceful amount of money. That’s not the case at Grill Bon. They serve their sandwiches in three forms: prawn, beef or premium wagyu fillet. This is one of those moments where you go big or go home. Especially since, while still not cheap, ¥4,000 will get you their highest grade of cut.

The set comes with a bite and a half of salad with a zingy yuzu vinaigrette and toasted sesame seeds. The sandwich is served in six perfect bites of milk bread squares brushed with their homemade katsu sauce on top of a deep-fried wagyu steak. It’s important to note the layers here, because they’re truly peak. It’s soft, then crispy, then back to soft with meat that melts like butter – a triple threat. Tiny pickles and a packet of karashi mustard come along for the ride. 

While you’re at it, get a bottle of Diamond Guarana – kind of like a lighter cream soda or the ghost of apple cider. It’s crisp and light on the tongue and pairs incredibly well with the sandwich. A drink you can sip, a sandwich you can nibble, a meal that’ll have you savouring little by little. This lunch remains a core memory in my life.