Best Tonkatsu in Tokyo 2025: Top 20 Must-Try Restaurants

Tucked away in a Kagurazaka alley basement, Honke Agezuki (Honke Tonkatsu) is a legendary name in Tokyo’s tonkatsu scene. They’ve earned their fame through an unwavering pursuit of perfection in both ingredients and cooking artistry.

The secret to Agezuki’s success is their exclusive use of Miyazaki Prefecture’s Nanto-buta pork. This premium, scarce pork has won the Japan Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award twice! Owner Mr. Hoshina tirelessly sought out the finest pork across Japan, ultimately choosing Nanto-buta for its tender texture and melt-in-your-mouth fat. The lean meat offers a rich, sweet flavor, while the low-melting-point fat provides a refreshing, non-greasy finish with a delicate, sweet aroma that’s simply irresistible. To showcase this exquisite pork, Agezuki employs a special cooking method: slow-frying in low-temperature oil, followed by a quick high-temperature finish to seal in the juices, then letting residual heat perfect its tenderness. The result? A tonkatsu that’s incredibly golden and crispy outside, yet wonderfully pink and juicy within – you can practically hear the juices ‘pop’ with every bite!

Their “Tokujo Rosu Katsu” (Premium Loin Tonkatsu) and “Tokujo Hire Katsu” (Premium Fillet Tonkatsu) are absolute must-tries. The loin is thick yet incredibly tender, boasting a perfect harmony of fat and meat – especially with a sprinkle of their recommended Pahar rock salt. The fillet is all about exquisite tenderness; it’s so soft you can cut it with chopsticks, melting in your mouth and winning over even those who usually shy away from fat. For variety, try the “Rosu Shogayaki” (Ginger Pork Loin) or “Jidori Sasami Fry” (Local Chicken Breast Fry), each a testament to the owner’s culinary passion. And don’t forget the Niigata “Koshiibuki” rice – fluffy, fragrant, and the perfect companion to your tonkatsu!

The vibe here is casual yet chic, with warm wood and soft lighting creating a cozy space perfect for a solo lunch, drinks with friends, or a date night. In the evening, pair your tonkatsu with their curated sake selection for a delightful flavor explosion! Just a heads-up: Agezuki is super popular, especially at lunch, so expect lines. Arrive early to snag a spot! Ultimately, Agezuki isn’t just a tonkatsu spot; it’s a legendary culinary experience crafted with passion and skill. Whether you’re a tonkatsu connoisseur or just seeking an unforgettable meal in Kagurazaka, you’ll leave with a happy stomach and a big smile.