Katsubō is serving up comfort and flavor

Katsubō serves up vibrant noodle dishes and comfort food in Park Circle, North Charleston. Open six days a week, it’s the brainchild of Chef Joe Nierstedt, formerly of KinFolk, who teamed up with Abby Leibowitz to turn a ramen and chicken sando pop‑up into something permanent.

“Our core values start with being a great neighbor,” Abby said. “That means hiring local talent, collaborating with nearby businesses, and building a space that feels welcoming to everyone—from solo diners at the bar to families sharing a big bowl of noodles.”

The decor is playful and welcoming. Joe describes it as clean and modern but full of character. “Think Japanese pop culture meets Charleston comfort,” Joe said. “You’ll see nods to anime and Godzilla, but it still feels warm and personal. I want people to walk in, take a deep breath, and immediately feel like they’ve found their spot—a place that’s easy to love and hard to leave.”

“We care deeply about the experience—from the broth to the music to the smile you get when you walk in. Katsubō isn’t just about food; it’s about how you feel while you’re here. We do things with intention.”

– Chef Joe Nierstedt

Expect slow‑simmered broths, crisp double-fried chicken, and ramen bowls like Tokyo Shoyu or Yuzu Shio that hit all the cozy, crave-worthy notes. With rotating specials and a deep respect for Japanese comfort food, Katsubō brings serious soul to every slurp and bite. (Hungry yet?)

Beyond the mouth-watering bowls and buns, the vibe and great service keep people coming back.  

Whether you’re craving ramen or a happy hour snack, Katsubō delivers both warmth and flavor with Charleston flair.

Visit the shop for a bowl of piping hot ramen or order online at katsuboeats.com.

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