Tokyo Food Guide: Tonkatsu Maisen in Shibuya Hikarie

If it’s your first time in Tokyo, chances are you’re overwhelmed by all the incredible food options. That was me! Here is the Tokyo food guide. Before my trip, I got tons of restaurant recommendations from friends, but one name kept coming up: Tonkatsu Maisen. Known for its high-quality black pork tonkatsu and house-made breadcrumbs and sauces, this spot quickly made it onto my must-try list. And where better to visit than their convenient Shibuya Hikarie branch?

I ended up stopping by for lunch before exploring Shibuya’s iconic sights like the scramble crossing. If you’re a foodie or just curious about what makes this place so special, here’s the lowdown on my visit!

1. First Stop: Shibuya Adventures (Bonus: Mario Kart on the Streets)

Before Tokyo food guide, let’s talk about what makes Shibuya such a vibrant neighborhood to explore. Right outside the famous Shibuya Scramble, I spotted a parade of colorful go-karts zipping by. Yes, it’s the Tokyo Street Kart experience, where participants dress up as characters and drive go-karts through the streets.

Unfortunately, I don’t have a driver’s license, so I couldn’t join in. But even just watching the Mario Kart-esque procession was such a fun moment. If you’re feeling adventurous (and have the necessary international license), it’s worth checking out!

💡 Pro Tip: You can book the Street Kart experience through platforms like Klook or KKday. Prices vary depending on promotions, so shop around for the best deal.

2. Finding Tonkatsu Maisen in Shibuya Hikarie

Booking & Location Info
Location: Shibuya Hikarie, 6th Floor, near Shibuya Station Exit 15
Popular Set: Black Pork Tonkatsu + Fried Oysters & Shrimp Tempura
Budget: ¥2,000–¥3,500 per person
Nearby Activities: Shibuya Scramble, Meiji Shrine, Street Kart Experience
Enjoy your Tokyo food adventure and let me know how you liked it!

Getting to Tonkatsu Maisen in Shibuya Hikarie couldn’t be easier. Just hop off the train at Shibuya Station and head for Exit 15. The exit connects directly to Hikarie, and the restaurant is on the 6th floor. Talk about convenience!

I arrived around 1:30 PM, which is later than the usual lunch rush, so I only had to wait about 10 minutes for a table. I’ve heard their main branch in Omotesando gets much busier, so the Hikarie location is a great alternative if you don’t want to spend too much time queuing.

1) The Dining Experience

While waiting to be seated, I was handed a menu to browse. The staff recommended the seasonal set menu, which offered great value and a generous selection of dishes. I went for a set that included their famous black pork tonkatsu, plus fried oysters and shrimp tempura. My husband, on the other hand, chose the regular tonkatsu so we could compare the two.

Once seated, the staff welcomed us with warm tea, which was continuously refilled throughout our meal. It’s the little touches like this that make dining in Japan such a treat!

2) Black Pork Tonkatsu vs. Regular Tonkatsu: Is It Worth It?

Let’s get to the food! When the plates arrived, I couldn’t wait to dig in. Here’s what stood out:

Presentation: Both plates looked similar at first glance — crispy golden breading, perfectly cut portions, and an inviting aroma.
Texture: Upon closer inspection (and tasting), the black pork tonkatsu was noticeably juicier and more tender. Each bite practically melted in my mouth.
Flavor: The black pork came with a special sauce that had a deeper, richer flavor compared to the standard one. It added an extra layer of umami that took the dish to the next level.
That said, the regular tonkatsu was still excellent. If you’re not fussed about subtle differences or on a tighter budget, the standard option will definitely satisfy you.

3) Why Tonkatsu Maisen is Tokyo food guide

What sets Tonkatsu Maisen apart from other tonkatsu joints is their commitment to quality. They meticulously remove all tendons and pound the meat to ensure it’s tender before frying. This attention to detail ensures every bite is soft, flavorful, and free of any chewy bits.

Plus, it’s not just the locals who love this place. During our visit, I noticed diners from all over — fellow travelers from Europe, the U.S., and China — all enjoying their meals. It’s proof that great food transcends borders!

3. Tips for Visiting Tonkatsu Maisen in Shibuya Hikarie

Here are a few tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable:

• Timing: Visit during off-peak hours (like 1:30–2:30 PM) to avoid long waits.
• Nearby Attractions: Plan your day around the area — check out Shibuya Scramble, Meiji Shrine, or even the Street Kart experience nearby.
• Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Food Spot in Shibuya
• Tonkatsu Maisen in Shibuya Hikarie is hands down one of the best meals I had during my Tokyo trip. Between the perfect location, excellent food, and quick service, it’s an easy choice for anyone exploring Shibuya.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Tokyo or a seasoned traveler, this spot is a great addition to your foodie itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your chopsticks and dig in!

A blog post with Tokyo hotel recommendations for your Tokyo trip is also available.