7 Best Tonkatsu Restaurants in Ueno! Enjoy the BirthPlace of Japanese Popular Cuisine

Ueno, one of Tokyo's most popular destinations in Taito Ward, is known for its zoo, art museums, nature-rich parks, and vibrant dining districts under the elevated railway. With easy access via the Shinkansen bullet train, it's an ideal tourist hub. Popular attractions like Ueno Zoo, the National Museum, and Ameyoko shopping street are consistently bustling with both tourists and locals.

As we enter 2024, Ueno continues to be one of Tokyo's premier dining districts, home to many skilled restaurants and historic eateries. Among these, tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) restaurants are particularly popular with both locals and tourists alike. In fact, Ueno is considered the birthplace of tonkatsu, and in 2024, its collection of exceptional tonkatsu establishments continues to draw food enthusiasts from around the world.

Tonkatsu: One of Japan's Most Beloved Culinary Treasures

Among the vast array of Japanese cuisine, tonkatsu stands out as one of the most popular and delectable dishes in Japan.

Tonkatsu is prepared by coating pork fillet or loin with wheat flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs, then deep-frying it to perfection. It's considered a yoshoku (Western-inspired Japanese cuisine), similar to stew and hamburger steak. The dish has inspired numerous variations, including the katsu sandwich (tonkatsu served between bread slices) and katsu curry (tonkatsu served over curry rice).

The History of Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu originated in Tokyo around 1895. The dish's predecessor, a thin "pork cutlet" served with shredded cabbage, was first introduced at a restaurant called "Rengatei" in Tokyo's Ginza district.

Later, in 1929, a restaurant called Ponchi-ken in Ueno developed what would become modern tonkatsu by deep-frying thick cuts of pork. This creation, dubbed "tonkatsu," spread throughout Japan and became one of the nation's representative dishes. Today in 2024, Ueno Tonkatsu continues this rich culinary tradition, offering some of the finest examples of this beloved dish.

Ueno: The Birthplace of Tonkatsu

Following Ponchi-ken's creation of pork cutlet in 1929, Ueno earned its reputation as the birthplace of tonkatsu.

As a result, the areas around Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station are home to numerous tonkatsu restaurants, ranging from historic establishments to modern eateries. The traditional way to enjoy tonkatsu involves the cutlet being deep-fried in generous amounts of oil, then sliced before serving. It's typically presented as a set meal with shredded cabbage as a side dish, accompanied by rice and miso soup.

Michelin-Recognized Tonkatsu Restaurants Known as "Ueno's Big Three"

Ponta Honke (Tonkatsu)

Established in 1905, Ponta Honke is one of Ueno's oldest tonkatsu restaurants, offering the same exceptional quality tonkatsu since its founding. As part of Ueno's renowned tonkatsu scene in 2024, it continues to maintain its legendary status.

The restaurant uses carefully selected high-quality lean pork. Rather than limiting themselves to specific brands, they source the best pork available at any given time, ensuring customers always experience premium quality meat.

They use house-made lard oil and fry the cutlets at low temperature for over 10 minutes, creating an irresistibly crispy texture. Besides cutlets, they also serve exceptional tempura made with seafood caught in waters near Tokyo.

Once you taste Ponta's refined tonkatsu, you'll never forget it. If you're visiting Japan and want to experience the finest tonkatsu and tempura, this is a must-visit destination.

Address: 3-23-3 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00-14:00/16:30-20:20
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 03-3831-2351

Ponchi-ken, Ponta's Predecessor: Japan's First Tonkatsu Restaurant

Ponta Honke's predecessor, Ponchi-ken, is credited as the first restaurant to serve tonkatsu in Japan. Founded in 1908, Ponchi-ken now operates separately from Ponta and still uses the original term "katsuretsu" instead of "tonkatsu."

Created with the concept of serving Western-style food that pairs well with rice, their katsuretsu became the catalyst for what is now a staple of Japanese cuisine. If you're impressed by Ponta's tonkatsu, visiting Ponchi-ken is also highly recommended.

Tonpachitei (Tonkatsu)

For those seeking a lighter tonkatsu experience, Tonpachitei, located in the small alley called Tanuki-koji, is highly recommended. Though small with only 15 seats, they offer English menus, making it accessible for international tourists.

Tonpachitei's tonkatsu is famous for its crispy texture, achieved using lard oil chosen specifically to complement the pork. The meat turns a beautiful rose color when fried and is lean, making it perfect for first-time tonkatsu diners.

While tonkatsu sauce is traditional, Tonpachitei offers additional options including Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and salt, allowing customers to customize their experience.

They're only open for lunch and are quite popular, so expect lines. It's recommended to arrive slightly before opening time.

Address: 4-3-4 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:30-14:30
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 03-3831-4209

Isen Main Store

Isen Honten, located near JR Okachimachi Station, is renowned as one of the historic tonkatsu restaurants established in 1930. As we explore the Ueno Tonkatsu scene in 2024, this restaurant stands out for its signature tender tonkatsu that can be easily cut with chopsticks. The softness makes it particularly approachable, even for first-time tonkatsu diners.

Notably, Isen Honten is famous for inventing the "Katsu Sandwich" - a creation where bite-sized pieces of tonkatsu are nestled between small slices of bread. These portable delights make perfect souvenirs and are ideal for enjoying during Shinkansen travels.

Beyond tonkatsu, Isen offers various dishes including omelets and fried shrimp, all at reasonable prices. It's a must-visit destination for experiencing traditional Japanese Western-style cuisine.

Address: 3-40-3 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:30-20:10
Closed: Wednesdays (Open on holidays)
Phone: 03-3834-2901
Official Website: https://www.isen-honten.jp/

Isen Honten: The Birthplace of "Katsu Sandwich"

Isen Honten is famous as the birthplace of the "Katsu Sandwich." This simple yet delicious creation was originally developed as an easily consumable dish. Historically, Ueno was known for its geisha district, and the Katsu Sandwich was specifically designed to be eaten elegantly without messing up the geishas' makeup. Though small in appearance, it's surprisingly filling and perfect for both dining in and takeout.

Recommended Tonkatsu Restaurant Loved by Locals

Tonkatsu Yamaya Ueno Branch

Tonkatsu Yamaya's Ueno branch, situated near Ueno Ameyoko, is a well-established tonkatsu restaurant frequently visited by tonkatsu enthusiasts. In 2024, it continues to offer exceptional value with its signature pork loin cutlet set meal priced at just 850 yen - a remarkable deal considering typical tonkatsu prices. The set includes tonkatsu, shredded cabbage, a generous portion of rice, miso soup, and pickles.

Each tonkatsu is freshly fried upon order, ensuring you receive a piping hot, juicy cutlet every time. The restaurant's reasonable prices attract many international visitors. For those seeking delicious, affordable tonkatsu, this is an essential stop in Ueno.

Address: 4-chome, Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00-15:00/17:00-21:00
Closed: None
Phone: 03-5817-7045

Tonkatsu Kotetsu

Tonkatsu Kotetsu is a new establishment that opened in June 2024 near Okachimachi Station. Using high-quality domestic branded pork and frying it at low temperature, their tonkatsu is tender, juicy, and exceptionally flavorful with generous portions.

The tonkatsu set meal comes with accompaniments of cabbage, rice, and miso soup. Both rice and cabbage can be refilled once, making it particularly recommended for those who want to enjoy plenty of delicious rice.

Since most customers are foreigners, menus are available in both Japanese and English. If you want to try a tonkatsu set meal in Japan, Tonkatsu Kotetsu is definitely worth visiting.

Address: Kousei Building B1F, 6-7-3 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:30-14:00/18:00-21:00
Closed: Tuesdays
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonkatsu_kotetsu/

Tonkatsu Maruichi

Tonkatsu Maruichi, a well-known establishment among Ueno's tonkatsu restaurants, is famous for maintaining its simple yet delicious taste since its founding. Although relatively new, having opened in 1994, it's a popular spot in the Ueno area that's busy with customers daily.

Using lard for frying gives the tonkatsu a rich flavor, perfectly complementing the sweet meat and tender breading. With reasonable prices, it's recommended for those seeking a cost-effective tonkatsu restaurant.

You can enjoy various flavors using not just sauce but also salt and mustard. With a wide variety of menu items besides tonkatsu, it's a must-visit restaurant for a satisfying meal.

Address: 7-8-22 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:30-14:30/17:00-22:00 Saturday 11:30-14:30
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 03-3841-6671

Maisen

Maisen is a tonkatsu retailer with shops in department stores and station buildings. Their signature item is the Hire-katsu (pork fillet cutlet) sandwich, which perfectly combines fried pork fillet, soft bread, and sweet sauce.

The quality of pork used in their tonkatsu is exceptional, using carefully selected meat that's fried to perfection, creating an unforgettable taste. It's also famous as a souvenir in Japan and popular for its convenience.

The Maisen shop in Ueno Station offers a wide range of products including katsu sandwiches, tonkatsu bento boxes, and other fried items. The compact size of their hire-katsu sandwich makes it perfect for eating during Shinkansen travels.

Address: Ecute Ueno 3F, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 8:00-22:00 (Weekends and holidays until 21:00)
Closed: None
Phone: 03-5826-5654
Official Website: https://mai-sen.com/

Not Just Tonkatsu - Japan Also Offers "Gyukatsu" (Beef Cutlet)

Beyond the traditional pork tonkatsu, Japan also offers "gyukatsu" (beef cutlet). This dish features deep-fried beef, and Ueno is home to several restaurants where you can savor this delicacy. Let me introduce you to two exceptional restaurants where you can enjoy high-quality gyukatsu in Ueno Tonkatsu 2024.

Gyukatsu Motomura Ueno Branch

Gyukatsu Motomura Ueno is a specialized beef cutlet restaurant chain with locations across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Kyushu. Their medium-rare beef cutlet is delicious on its own, but you can also adjust it to your preferred doneness using a hot stone plate provided with your meal.

While the cutlet pairs well with sauce or salt, trying it with wasabi soy sauce is highly recommended. Wasabi, the green condiment commonly used with sushi, adds a distinctive sharp kick to your sinuses. The combination of the meat's sweetness and wasabi's spiciness creates a rich, harmonious flavor profile.

With set meals, you can get one free rice refill, while additional servings of cabbage and miso soup are available for +100 yen. English reservations are accepted, making it perfect for tourists wanting to enjoy a filling gyukatsu experience.

Address: 2F Tezuka Building, 4-10-17 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00-22:00
Closed: Never
Official Website: https://www.gyukatsu-motomura.com/

Gyukatsu Aona Ueno Okachimachi

Gyukatsu Aona is a premier beef cutlet restaurant representing Ueno's finest. They use high-quality Japanese Black Beef (Kuroge Wagyu), known for its low-calorie content and clean taste. The restaurant is highly regarded for its meat's tenderness and umami flavor.

They offer three types of beef: Japanese Black Beef, New Zealand beef, and marbled beef with its characteristic snowflake-like fat patterns. Set meals include rice, soup, and salad, making for a satisfying yet light dining experience.

The restaurant uses fresh seasonal vegetables for salads and nutritious ten-grain rice. This low-calorie, light meal is perfect for health-conscious diners seeking to enjoy gyukatsu.

Address: 1F JUN Building, 6-5-7 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00-22:30
Closed: Never
Phone: 03-6240-1979
Official Website: http://www.jfoods.co.jp/index.html