Tokyo is home to some of the world’s finest tonkatsu—Japanese-style breaded pork cutlets. From melt-in-your-mouth premium pork to perfectly crisp golden batter, these restaurants elevate a humble dish to unforgettable heights. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a first-time visitor, here are five of the best tonkatsu restaurants in Tokyo for 2025, plus a local favorite you shouldn’t miss.

1. Tonkatsu Narikura (とんかつ 成蔵) – Suginami (Minami-Asagaya)

💎 Michelin favorite with legendary juicy cuts and light batter

• Known For: Light-colored, low-temperature fried tonkatsu that’s ultra-crisp and tender. Uses premium pork like Tokyo-X and layered “mille-feuille” cutlets.
• Price: High-end (¥6,500–¥8,000 for 2–3 cutlets with set)
• Vibe: Minimalist, chef-focused, no walk-ins. Reservation only.
• Access: 4-min walk from Minami-Asagaya Station (Marunouchi Line)
• Book: Michelin Guide – Tonkatsu Narikura

2. Tonkatsu Nanaido (とんかつ 七井戸) – Harajuku (Jingumae)

🍽 Hidden Bib Gourmand gem with masterful frying techniques

• Known For: Crispy, oil-free tonkatsu fried in lard and served on Imari porcelain. Slow-cooked rice and flavorful condiments.
• Price: Moderate (~¥1,800 lunch sets)
• Vibe: Casual counter-only shop, open weekday lunch only. No reservations.
• Access: Short walk from Omotesando or Meiji-Jingumae Station
• Info: Michelin Guide – Tonkatsu Nanaido

3. Butagumi (豚組) – Nishiazabu (near Roppongi)

🐷 A pork-lover’s dream with 20+ pork breeds to choose from

• Known For: Rare pork cuts from Japan and abroad—choose your favorite breed and thickness. Housed in a traditional Japanese house.
• Price: Moderate to high (¥1,200 lunch, ¥3,000 dinner)
• Vibe: Quiet, elegant, English menus available. Reservation recommended.
• Access: 8-min walk from Roppongi Station (Hibiya Line)
• Visit: Butagumi Official Website

4. Maisen Aoyama Honten (まい泉 青山本店) – Omotesando

🥢 Historic bathhouse turned tonkatsu haven

• Known For: Iconic kurobuta (Berkshire) pork loin cutlets and famous katsu sandwiches. Family-friendly and stylish setting.
• Price: Moderate (~¥2,000–¥3,000 meals)
• Vibe: Large seating, great for groups. No reservations needed.
• Access: 3-min walk from Omotesando Station
• More Info: Maisen Official Site

5. Ginza Katsukami (銀座 かつかみ) – Ginza

🍽️ Fine-dining tonkatsu with omakase-style service

• Known For: Upscale tonkatsu omakase served one piece at a time using premium pork like Yonezawa-buta and Tokyo-X.
• Price: High (lunch from ¥3,800, dinner from ¥7,700)
• Vibe: Quiet, refined Ginza experience. Reservation required.
• Access: Near Ginza/Yurakucho Stations
• Explore: Katsukami Official Website

🌟 Local Favorite: Tonkatsu Ponchiken (ポンチ軒) – Kanda

🔥 Beloved by Tokyo locals for over 90 years

• Known For: Classic-style tonkatsu with crispy crust and juicy center. Less touristy, always busy.
• Price: Affordable (¥1,000–¥2,000 sets)
• Vibe: Casual, retro vibe with counter and table seating.
• Access: Short walk from Kanda Station
• Google Maps: Search “Tonkatsu Ponchiken Kanda”

🍚 Bonus Tips for Tonkatsu Lovers in Tokyo

• 🧂 Don’t skip the sauces! Try spicy mustard, sesame salt, or homemade tonkatsu sauce.
• 🥬 Refills! Most places offer free cabbage and rice refills—just ask.
• 📅 Make reservations where possible, especially for upscale or small venues.
• ⏰ Arrive early at walk-in-only spots—they often sell out or have long waits.

✈️ Plan Your Tokyo Foodie Adventure!

Love crispy pork cutlets? These tonkatsu spots will blow your mind—and your taste buds. Add one (or all!) to your Tokyo itinerary for a satisfying, crunchy, umami-rich meal. Follow NomNomJP for more local foodie guides and Japan travel tips updated for 2025!

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