Honest Review- CU Whole Pork Cutlet Kimbap – Redemption for the Donkasu?

Welcome back to Slurp & Stream! If you read my previous review of the Spicy Pork Cutlet Triangle Kimbap, you know I was… well, let’s say “deeply disappointed” (it got a 2/10). But I believe in second chances! Today, I’m testing the CU Whole Pork Cutlet Kimbap for 3,600 KRW (approx. $2.65 USD).

Is the “Long Roll” version superior to the triangle? Let’s find out!

✨ First Impressions: Living Up to the Name

The packaging looks promising, and unlike the triangle version, you can feel the heft of a real meal here. In Korea, “Tong” means “Whole” or “Big,” and through the clear wrapper, the pork cutlet actually looks like a real piece of meat rather than a mystery patty.

🍙 The Build: A Solid Cross-Section

When I sliced it open, I was pleasantly surprised.

• The Meat: There is a thick, central piece of pork cutlet that takes up most of the space. It actually looks like a cutlet!
• The Extras: It’s rounded out with classic kimbap ingredients like yellow pickled radish (Danmuji) and egg. The visual balance is great—it looks like a proper, well-made roll from a specialized kimbap shop.

👅 Taste Test: Texture is King

Now, for the moment of truth: the quality of the pork.

• The Texture: Let’s be real—you aren’t going to get “crunchy” breading from a chilled convenience store roll. It’s a bit soggy, which is expected. However, the meat inside is real pork. You can actually chew it and feel the fiber of the meat, which is a massive upgrade from the mushy patty in the triangle version.
• The Sauce: The sauce is a classic, sweet-and-savory brown tonkatsu sauce. It’s applied moderately so it doesn’t drown the rice, keeping the flavor profile balanced and approachable for everyone.

💡 Final Verdict: A Reliable Choice

While it hasn’t quite knocked our champions (Jangjorim Egg or Bulgogi Jeonju Bibim) off their 7/10 thrones, this is a very solid contender.

• Score: 6 / 10
• Re-purchase intent: Yes. When I want a meat-heavy roll that feels like a real meal, this is a safe bet.
• Comparison: If you were scarred by the Pork Cutlet Triangle Kimbap like I was, switch to this “Long Roll” version. You actually get the meat you paid for!

🏁 Summary

The breading might be soft, but the meat is the real deal. It’s a filling, balanced, and tasty option for under 3 dollars. Not a “Holy Grail” like the Crab Salad Sandwich, but definitely a 6/10 win for CU!