Tonkatsu is one of Japan’s most popular and widely enjoyed comfort foods—a golden, crispy pork cutlet that’s crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and deeply satisfying. Originating in the late 19th century as a Japanese take on European-style breaded meat dishes, tonkatsu has since become a staple of casual dining, fast food chains, and even high-end restaurants across the country.
Tonkatsu is typically made from either a pork loin (rosu) or a leaner tenderloin (hire), both of which are generously seasoned, coated in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until perfectly crisp. It’s usually sliced into strips for easy eating and served with finely shredded cabbage, rice, miso soup, and pickles, often as part of a set meal known as a teishoku.
Diners are often given a choice of sauces to accompany their cutlet, including the classic thick, sweet-savory tonkatsu sauce—somewhat similar to Worcestershire sauce—as well as mustard or sesame seeds that can be ground fresh at the table. The shredded cabbage is usually offered with a tangy dressing or yuzu vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meat.
Where to Try Tonkatsu
You’ll find tonkatsu on the menu at a wide range of eateries, from specialist tonkatsu restaurants like Maisen, Tonkatsu Wako, and Saboten, to family restaurants, food courts, and department store basement food halls (depachika). High-end establishments may age the pork for enhanced flavour and offer different regional styles and premium pork breeds.
Fast-food and casual chains such as Matsuya, Coco Ichibanya, or Katsuya also serve reliable versions, often with curry or donburi-style rice bowls.
Katsu Sando and Convenience Options
For a more casual and portable option, katsu sando—a tonkatsu sandwich tucked between slices of soft white bread with tangy sauce—is a popular choice. These are a staple at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, as well as bakeries and train station kiosks. Some gourmet versions feature thick-cut pork and artisan bread, wrapped beautifully for take-away.
Other Types of Katsu
While pork tonkatsu is the most iconic version, other types of katsu are widely enjoyed across Japan. Chicken katsu is a common alternative, often served the same way or used in dishes like chicken katsu curry. You may also encounter menchi katsu (a breaded minced meat patty) and even seafood variants like prawn or fish katsu. They may look similar, but each has its own distinct texture and flavour.
