Tonkatsu Yayoi

Founded in 1940, Tonkatsu Yayoi is a dedicated restaurant boasting a history of over 85 years, located quietly in the atmospheric "Kannon-ura" area behind Senso-ji Temple. The business began when the first-generation owner, Yatarō, opened a shop dedicated to tonkatsu—which was considered a highly fashionable delicacy at the time—after honing his craft at a restaurant in Ueno. Today, the third-generation couple, Yūjirō and Saeko Yonebayashi, carry on the establishment's time-honored flavors. The neat and modern standalone building, adorned with beautiful slatted solid wood, was dramatically renovated through the famous Japanese TV program Before After (Great Makeover) following structural damage caused by an earthquake. It stands as a wonderfully cozy space where modern Japanese comfort beautifully blends with the historical charm of Asakusa.

The restaurant's greatest appeal lies in its incredible versatility; it serves perfectly as a casual dining spot for a satisfying lunch, as well as a welcoming tavern-style space in the evening where guests can fully savor exceptional dishes as side plates alongside a relaxing drink. The signature tonkatsu features carefully selected, premium pork deep-fried in 100% pure lard. Preserving a traditional technique, the pork is enveloped in an incredibly fine, ultra-thin breadcrumb crust. Taking a bite yields a crisp, delicate crunch that perfectly locks in the juicy richness of the meat and the clean sweetness of the fat without ever peeling off.

What further captivates food enthusiasts—whether as an accompaniment to alcohol or as a vibrant addition to a meal—is a rare selection of dishes featuring fresh "Kaga Vegetables" sent directly from the owner’s family farm in Kanazawa. From lightly pickled Kaga-futo cucumbers (a unique variety originally developed and named by the owner's grandfather) to refreshing vinegar-dressed dishes and salads featuring Kintokisō—a leafy vegetable prized for its unique contrast of silkiness and crisp texture—guests can indulge in the rich bounty of Hokuriku. Other standouts that pair flawlessly with both rice and drinks include the legendary "Ginger Pork" (Shogayaki), sliced to order and seared to perfection using a secret family recipe, and whole-fried chicken eggs. Remaining open until late, this establishment seamlessly accommodates everything from daily dining to an evening of bar-hopping.