Tonkatsu (Japanese deep-fried pork cutlet) is a must-try dish when visiting Japan. Many popular tonkatsu chain restaurants serve high-quality pork cutlets with crispy coating and juicy meat. Here are six of the best tonkatsu chains you should try!
- 1. Tonkatsu Wako – A Classic Tonkatsu Experience
- 2. Tonkatsu Maisen – Famous for Its Tender Pork Cutlets
- 3. Tonkatsu Shinjuku Saboten – A Long-Established Favorite
- 4. Katsuya – Quick and Affordable Tonkatsu
- 5. Katsukura – Kyoto-Style Premium Tonkatsu
- 6. Matsunoya – Affordable and Tasty Tonkatsu
- Conclusion
- FAQ
1. Tonkatsu Wako – A Classic Tonkatsu Experience
- Crispy and perfectly fried tonkatsu
- Set meals with unlimited rice, miso soup, and cabbage
- Over 250 locations across Japan
Recommended Menu: Rosu Katsu Teishoku (Pork Loin Cutlet Set)
A juicy pork loin cutlet with a crispy coating, served with rice, cabbage, and miso soup.
📍 Location: Nationwide
💰 Price: About ¥1,500 JPY~ ($10 USD~)
📅 Reservation: Not required
🌐 Official Website: Tonkatsu Wako
2. Tonkatsu Maisen – Famous for Its Tender Pork Cutlets
- Soft and juicy tonkatsu that melts in your mouth
- Signature tonkatsu sandwich is a must-try
- Stylish and traditional Japanese interior
Recommended Menu: Hire Katsu (Pork Fillet Cutlet)
A tender pork fillet with a light and crispy coating, perfect for those who prefer lean meat.
📍 Location: Nationwide (flagship store in Omotesando, Tokyo)
💰 Price: About ¥1,500 JPY~ ($11 USD~)
📅 Reservation: Available at some locations
🌐 Official Website: Tonkatsu Maisen
3. Tonkatsu Shinjuku Saboten – A Long-Established Favorite
- Well-balanced tonkatsu with high-quality ingredients
- Serves original Saboten sauce for extra flavor
- Offers both pork loin and fillet options
Recommended Menu: Saboten Special Tonkatsu Set
A signature set featuring thick-cut pork loin, miso soup, rice, and cabbage.
📍 Location: Nationwide
💰 Price: About ¥1,500 JPY~ ($10 USD~)
📅 Reservation: Not required
🌐 Official Website: Tonkatsu Shinjuku Saboten
4. Katsuya – Quick and Affordable Tonkatsu
- Casual and budget-friendly tonkatsu chain
- Fast service and great value meals
- Popular among locals for quick lunches
Recommended Menu: Katsu Don (Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl)
A deep-fried pork cutlet served over rice with egg and a savory-sweet sauce.
📍 Location: Nationwide
💰 Price: About ¥800 JPY~ ($6 USD~)
📅 Reservation: Not required
🌐 Official Website: Katsuya
5. Katsukura – Kyoto-Style Premium Tonkatsu
- Uses high-quality pork and homemade panko (breadcrumbs)
- Served with Kyoto-style miso soup and special sesame sauce
- Elegant and relaxing restaurant atmosphere
Recommended Menu: Thick-Cut Pork Loin Katsu
A thick and juicy pork cutlet with a delicate crispy coating, served with a rich sesame-based sauce.
📍 Location: Nationwide (flagship store in Kyoto)
💰 Price: About ¥1,800 JPY~ ($13 USD~)
📅 Reservation: Available
🌐 Official Website: Katsukura
6. Matsunoya – Affordable and Tasty Tonkatsu
- A budget-friendly tonkatsu chain with high quality
- Thick and crispy pork cutlets at a great price
- Available 24/7 at many locations
Recommended Menu: Tonkatsu Teishoku (Pork Cutlet Set Meal)
A golden-brown crispy pork cutlet served with rice, miso soup, and shredded cabbage.
📍 Location: Nationwide
💰 Price: About ¥770 JPY~ ($7USD~)
📅 Reservation: Not required
🌐 Official Website: Matsunoya
Conclusion
Japan has many amazing tonkatsu chain restaurants, from premium Kyoto-style cutlets to quick and budget-friendly meals. Whether you prefer thick and juicy pork loin or a light and tender fillet, these top 6 tonkatsu chains offer delicious options for every taste. Be sure to try them on your next visit to Japan!
FAQ
Tonkatsu is a Japanese deep-fried pork cutlet coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs. It is one of the most popular dishes served at a tonkatsu Japan chain restaurant.
There are two main types: Rosu Katsu (pork loin cutlet), which is juicy with some fat, and Hire Katsu (pork fillet cutlet), which is leaner and more tender.
Tonkatsu is usually dipped in tonkatsu sauce, a thick and slightly sweet Worcestershire-style sauce. Some restaurants also serve sesame seeds to grind and mix with the sauce.
Yes! Tonkatsu is served on its own with sauce, while katsu curry features a pork cutlet topped with rich Japanese curry sauce.