Tabelog ratingMaru Ichi (丸一) is a name spoken with reverence among tonkatsu lovers, a small counter-only restaurant in Kamata that consistently ranks among Tokyo's best. What makes it special is the quality of its pork and the precision of its craft. The kitchen uses premium Hayashi SPF pork, serving cuts so thick they are fried to a perfect crisp on the outside while remaining juicy and faintly pink within.
Diners consistently praise the premium loin cuts. The 'Jo Rosu' (上ロース) is a thick, tender, and deeply flavorful cutlet, but the star is the limited-availability 'Gokujo Rosu' (極上ロース), celebrated for its exceptional juiciness. The leaner fillet (ヒレ, hire) is also highly regarded. Each set comes with generous portions of rice, shredded cabbage, and a rich pork and vegetable miso soup (豚汁, tonjiru) that draws praise in its own right. The experience is part of the appeal: staff take your order in the queue, so your food arrives moments after you sit down at the 12-seat counter.
The main drawbacks are a direct result of its popularity: long queues are standard, and the most sought-after 'Gokujo Rosu' often sells out early. The dining room is tiny, so larger groups should expect to be seated separately. A few reviewers also noted the lack of a draining rack, meaning the cutlet sits directly on the plate.
Despite the high-end quality, prices are reasonable. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥1,500–¥1,700 for a standard lunch loin set (ロースかつ定食). The premium 'Jo Rosu' costs around ¥2,800–¥2,900, while the top-tier 'Gokujo Rosu' is about ¥3,100–¥3,200. Most agree the lunch sets offer excellent value, and that the pricier cuts are a worthwhile splurge for a memorable meal.
- Reservations: Not accepted. Be prepared to queue, especially during peak hours. Arrive 30-60 minutes before opening if you want to secure the 'Gokujo Rosu'.
- Getting There: A 5-minute walk from Keikyu Kamata Station or a 6-minute walk from JR Kamata Station.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Seating: 12 counter seats only.
- Children: School-age children are welcome.
- Language: While some English, Chinese, and Korean menus or assistance may be available, the main menu is in Japanese.
- Smoking: The restaurant is non-smoking.
