Tabelog ratingTonkatsu 16 (とんかつ 16) is not a typical tonkatsu restaurant, but an intimate, educational experience. At a counter with just six seats, the owner-chef serves tonkatsu as a guided tasting. Guests choose their preferred cut—rosu (loin) or hire (tenderloin)—from a rotating list of named, single-breed porks, which are displayed on a matrix showing their fat and firmness levels. The chef then prepares each piece to order, complete with hand-made panko, and explains the origin and characteristics of the meat.
Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the pork, noting its juiciness and the varied textures between breeds. The thin, crisp breading is another highlight, as is the owner's willingness to explain each cut in English, making it very accessible for international visitors. Popular choices include tasting flights of the lean hire fillet and rich, marbled rosu loin, with cuts like Shirakawa Kogen Seiryu hire and Amagi Kurobuta rosu mentioned frequently. The house-made dressings and occasional menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet) side order also receive commendations.
The main criticisms are minor and relate to expectations. Some diners find the portions small for the price, and a few Japanese reviewers have noted occasional oiliness on certain days. The space is, by design, very small and can feel cramped.
Expect to spend around ¥2,000–¥2,999 for lunch and ¥4,000–¥4,999 for dinner. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying approximately ¥4,100 for an Amagi Kurobuta rosu set (160g), ¥1,300 for a 60g portion of Dorobuta hire, and around ¥6,000 for a premium 200g Kōhaku rosu. A side of menchi-katsu was about ¥450. For diners who prioritize pork quality and a unique chef-led experience, it offers good value.
- Reservations: Strongly recommended, as there are only six seats. Bookings are typically made via Instagram DM.
- How to get there: A short walk (409m) from Ebisu Cho station. The restaurant is on the 1st floor of the Casablanca Building and can be difficult to spot; allow extra time to find it.
- Seating: Counter seating for 6 people only.
- Payment: QR code payments (PayPay) are accepted. Credit cards and other electronic money are not accepted. Bringing cash is advisable.
- Wait time: Dishes are cooked to order, so expect a wait of 15–25 minutes after ordering.
- Service: The owner speaks English. One free refill of rice and cabbage is included with sets.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking available.
