Tonkatsu, a crispy and juicy Japanese pork cutlet, is a must-try dish in Kyoto. This deep-fried delight is served with rice, shredded cabbage, and miso soup, making it a perfect meal for any traveler. Kyoto is home to many excellent tonkatsu restaurants, each offering a unique twist on this classic dish.
Here are the 6 best tonkatsu restaurants in Kyoto where you can enjoy an authentic and delicious meal.
- 1. Katsukura Sanjo Main Store – Famous Kyoto Tonkatsu
- 2. Tonkatsu Okuda – A Hidden Gem for Tonkatsu Lovers
- 3. Kyoto Tonkatsu Katsuda – Perfect for Thick & Juicy Cutlets
- 4. Tonkatsu Ichiban – Best Tonkatsu Near Kyoto Station
- 5. Karasemi-tei – Traditional Kyoto Tonkatsu Experience
- Why You Should Try Tonkatsu in Kyoto
- FAQ
1. Katsukura Sanjo Main Store – Famous Kyoto Tonkatsu
- High-quality pork: Uses carefully selected pork for a tender and flavorful cutlet.
- Homemade sauce: Rich and tangy sauce made with fresh ingredients.
- Traditional Kyoto ambiance: A cozy, elegant setting in the heart of the city.
Recommended Menu: Rosu Katsu (Pork Loin Cutlet) – A crispy, golden-brown cutlet with a juicy center.
Location: 5-minute walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station
Reservation: Not required
Official Website: Katsukura Sanjo
2. Tonkatsu Okuda – A Hidden Gem for Tonkatsu Lovers
- Crispy and juicy: Expertly fried tonkatsu with a crunchy coating.
- Family-owned atmosphere: A small, welcoming restaurant with a homey feel.
- Freshly made sauces: House-made tonkatsu sauce for a perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
Recommended Menu: Hire Katsu (Pork Fillet Cutlet) – A tender, lean cutlet with a crisp crust.
Location: 10-minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station
Reservation: Not required
Official Website: Tonkatsu Okuda
3. Kyoto Tonkatsu Katsuda – Perfect for Thick & Juicy Cutlets
- Thick-cut pork: Serves extra-thick tonkatsu with a soft, juicy texture.
- Rich miso soup: Pairs well with their flavorful pork cutlets.
- Great location: Near Kyoto’s shopping district, perfect for a lunch break.
Recommended Menu: Special Thick Cut Rosu Katsu – A massive, flavorful pork loin cutlet.
Location: 3-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station
Reservation: Not required
Official Website: Kyoto Tonkatsu Katsuda
4. Tonkatsu Ichiban – Best Tonkatsu Near Kyoto Station
- Convenient location: Just minutes from Kyoto Station.
- Budget-friendly: Offers delicious tonkatsu at reasonable prices.
- Quick service: Ideal for travelers who need a fast, satisfying meal.
Recommended Menu: Tonkatsu Teishoku – A set meal with crispy tonkatsu, rice, and miso soup.
Location: 2-minute walk from Kyoto Station
Reservation: Not required
Official Website: Tonkatsu Ichiban
5. Karasemi-tei – Traditional Kyoto Tonkatsu Experience
- Locally sourced pork: Uses high-quality, Kyoto-raised pork.
- Beautiful Kyoto-style interior: A mix of modern and traditional design.
- Miso-based tonkatsu sauce: Unique Kyoto-style miso sauce enhances the flavor.
Recommended Menu: Kyoto Miso Tonkatsu – A rich, umami-packed tonkatsu with miso sauce.
Location: 10-minute walk from Karasuma Station
Reservation: Recommended
Official Website: Karasemi tei
Why You Should Try Tonkatsu in Kyoto
Kyoto is known for its high-quality ingredients and attention to detail, making its tonkatsu some of the best in Japan. Whether you prefer a thick and juicy cutlet, a crispy fillet, or a miso-flavored specialty, Kyoto’s tonkatsu restaurants have something for everyone.
FAQ
Tonkatsu is a deep-fried pork cutlet that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is usually served with rice, miso soup, and shredded cabbage.
Most tonkatsu restaurants in Kyoto do not require reservations, but some popular spots may have long wait times.
Rosu Katsu (pork loin cutlet) is juicier with more fat, while Hire Katsu (pork fillet cutlet) is leaner and more tender.
No, they are completely different! Tonkatsu is a deep-fried pork cutlet, while Tonkotsu refers to a rich, creamy ramen broth made from pork bones. Their pronunciation is similar, but they are two very different dishes.