Isen Honten
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/ Price RangeTokyo
Japanese: Fried Food
Isen Honten Description
Isen Honten is a charming restaurant located in Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1929, this restaurant is known for its mouthwatering and tender tonkatsu, a traditional Japanese dish consisting of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. In fact, Isen Honten is credited with inventing the 'katsu sandwich,' which has become a popular street food in Japan.
The restaurant's interior is a delightful blend of old-world charm and nostalgia. With its traditional decor and preserved elements from the Showa era, such as the second-floor tatami rooms where geisha used to perform, Isen Honten offers a unique dining experience that transports guests back in time.
The star of the menu at Isen Honten is undoubtedly their signature dish, the 'chopstick-tender tonkatsu.' This dish is prepared with the utmost care and precision, resulting in a perfectly crispy and juicy cutlet that can be effortlessly enjoyed with chopsticks. The tonkatsu is served with a variety of accompaniments, including cabbage, rice, and miso soup, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
What sets Isen Honten apart from other dining establishments is its rich history and commitment to preserving traditional Japanese cuisine. With its innovative katsu sandwich and dedication to quality, Isen Honten continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. So, if you find yourself in Tokyo, make sure to visit Isen Honten for an unforgettable dining experience that combines culinary excellence with a touch of nostalgia.
The restaurant's interior is a delightful blend of old-world charm and nostalgia. With its traditional decor and preserved elements from the Showa era, such as the second-floor tatami rooms where geisha used to perform, Isen Honten offers a unique dining experience that transports guests back in time.
The star of the menu at Isen Honten is undoubtedly their signature dish, the 'chopstick-tender tonkatsu.' This dish is prepared with the utmost care and precision, resulting in a perfectly crispy and juicy cutlet that can be effortlessly enjoyed with chopsticks. The tonkatsu is served with a variety of accompaniments, including cabbage, rice, and miso soup, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
What sets Isen Honten apart from other dining establishments is its rich history and commitment to preserving traditional Japanese cuisine. With its innovative katsu sandwich and dedication to quality, Isen Honten continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. So, if you find yourself in Tokyo, make sure to visit Isen Honten for an unforgettable dining experience that combines culinary excellence with a touch of nostalgia.
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Isen Honten Overview
Nearby Stations
Save on your next Japan trip with discounted train travel using the JR Pass!
Ueno-hirokoji Station
Tokyo Metro Ginza LineUeno-okachimachi Station
Toei Subway Oedo LineYushima Station
Tokyo Metro Chiyoda LineOkachimachi Station
JR East Keihin-Tohoku Line
JR East Yamanote LineNaka-okachimachi Station
Tokyo Metro Hibiya LineOperating Hours
Sun: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Mon: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Tue: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Wed: Closed
Thur: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Fri: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Sat: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Mon: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Tue: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Wed: Closed
Thur: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Fri: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Sat: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Payment Methods
Cash
Restaurant Features
Take-out Available
Reservations Accepted
Family-friendly
Non-smoking
Sake Selection
Isen Honten Reviews
Isen Honten Google Average Rating
4.2
5
Google
Greeted at the door by staff to take umbrellas. Such a great traditional and intimate space with full view of the kitchen and the magic that goes on behind each dish. Miso soup was different with lots of vegetables and meat but the main show was the Pork cutlet. Cooked to perfection!
5
Google
Make sure your party is all present or they will not sit you. Queue isn’t too long and there are a decent amount of seats in the restaurant. The pork is really soft and juicy and while the batter is crispy and firm. The crab salad starter is really delicious too. There is no hint of oiliness in the food at all. Try the prawn croquette also. Creamy and the prawns are very fresh.
5
Google
Got takeaway from here while visiting Japan on vacation. A charming place tucked away in an alley, we ordered three bentos and a sandwich. The menus were all Japanese but google translate got us what we wanted… the shrimp bento, a pork bento, and the special which came with 4 items. The whole family was very pleased with our choices. Staff was patient and helpful with us. Highly recommend.
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