Katsuretsu Tei Shinshigai Main Store

Katsuretsutei Shinshigai Main Store is the main branch of a tonkatsu restaurant chain headquartered in Kumamoto. Their thick-cut deep-fried pork cutlets and other tonkatsu are consistently crispy, hearty, and highly satisfying—many say once you try it, other tonkatsu won’t measure up. There are often lines, but because it’s mainly tonkatsu, turnover is fast, so it’s generally better to line up than to give up. Despite being very filling, the aftertaste is surprisingly light, making it easy to keep eating. Cabbage and miso soup can be refilled, letting you fully satisfy your appetite. Using Kagoshima-produced Roppaku Kurobuta pork and insisting on top-quality meat, breadcrumbs, and oil, Katsuretsutei’s tonkatsu is strongly recommended when visiting Kumamoto. It’s comfortable for families, and since you can choose cutlet size, it’s also easy for solo female diners—another thoughtful touch. Access: get off at Karashimacho tram stop and walk about 2 minutes.