Introducing Tonkatsu Ruri-AN

This restaurant has closed.

Hello, fellow food lovers!
I’m Uentsu, a writer for SaruKuma.

Today I’d like to introduce you to a special spot located on the 2nd floor of HAB@Kumamoto in Tetorihoncho, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City:
“Tonkatsu Ruri-AN”.

This restaurant is a reincarnation of the former “AlterN” location, taking over from “Ruri-an” — a beloved spot once based in Minamitsuboi-machi. Ruri-an officially relocated and reopened here on February 1st, and I was lucky enough to be invited to a special tasting event!
The original Ruri-an only operated on weekends through December in Minamitsuboi-machi, but its tonkatsu became so popular that the team decided to bring it to a more accessible location inside HAB@Kumamoto so even more people could enjoy it.

Recommended Menu at Tonkatsu Ruri-AN

Now, let’s dive into the menu!
There are 5 set meal (teishoku) options and 2 rice bowl (donburi) options available.

Of course, you’ll also find plenty of à la carte options!

The interior remains largely the same as the previous AlterN setup, giving it a familiar yet refreshed atmosphere.

And now, what you’ve all been waiting for — the food photos!
Here is the “Kumamoto Tonkatsu” — a generous 200g serving.
Both the fillet (hire) and loin (rosu) cutlets are made from “Amakusa Bainiku Pork,” raised completely pesticide-free and fed plum extract for a uniquely tender flavor.
Look at that gorgeous pink center! ♡
Even the sauce is made in-house, simmered for hours with Ashikita onions and aromatic vegetables.

The texture is wonderfully tender with just the right amount of bite — so light that polishing off all 200g feels effortless.
The sauce is delicious, but personally I loved dipping mine in wasabi!

Next up: the “Aso Chicken Cutlet.”
Just look at that thickness! Despite the size, it’s never tough — every bite is crisp and easy to enjoy.

And here’s the “Amakusa Line-Caught Horse Mackerel Fry.”
The horse mackerel (aji) is line-caught off the coast of Amakusa and lightly fried so the inside stays beautifully rare.

The “Kumamoto Karaage” features 5 generous pieces of fried chicken made with premium Daiaso-dori chicken!

Don’t forget the rice bowls! The “Ebi Toji-don” comes with 3 plump shrimp draped in fluffy egg.

The rice is naturally grown in Kumamoto and cooked in a traditional clay pot (donabe). With any set meal, you get one free refill!
Even the salad dressings are house-made — choose between onion or sesame. The sesame one is wonderfully rich and even works as a dipping sauce for the tonkatsu!

The miso soup and side dishes also feature local Kumamoto ingredients.
It really is a celebration of all things Kumamoto!

The head chef shared that he wants to spread the appeal of “Kumamoto Tonkatsu” far and wide — not only to visitors from outside the prefecture but also to local Kumamoto residents who deserve to rediscover the rich flavors of their own region.

If you find yourself exploring downtown Kumamoto, be sure to stop by and give it a try!

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