PRETTY PORK FACTORY & KATSU PURIPO

This tonkatsu specialist comes from the team behind Tokyo Nikushabuya, the number one ranked shabu shabu restaurant on Tabelog. It would not be an exaggeration to say that PRETTY PORK FACTORY & KATSU Puripo is reshaping the landscape of Tokyo’s tonkatsu scene.

The pork, selected from over 150 breeds by the owner chef who is a well known foodie himself, includes some truly rare varieties. Among them is Mangalitsa, a Hungarian heritage breed often called the “edible national treasure.” Others include Amagi Kurobuta, Nangoku Sweet, and Diamond Pork. Each breed offers a unique texture and flavor profile that elevates the tonkatsu experience far beyond the ordinary.

The tonkatsu is fried in 100 percent lard, using breadcrumbs from Nakaya, a legendary panko producer. The crust is a deep golden brown, coarse and satisfyingly crisp. The fragrance of the lard combines with the richness of the pork to create a deeply gratifying bite that reminds you exactly why tonkatsu is a beloved Japanese comfort food.

Complementing the main dish are perfectly cooked rice in a traditional donabe pot, freshly shredded cabbage, nori seaweed, and a clear soup with shijimi clams. The rice deserves special mention. Made from Milky Queen, a premium variety grown in Shiga Prefecture, it is fluffy and slightly sticky, with a soft texture that keeps you reaching for more.

Following the flagship location in Shinjuku, a second branch opened in the heart of Harajuku in 2024. In an area that has long lacked truly satisfying options for seasoned diners, this newcomer is a very welcome addition to the tonkatsu landscape.