Mochi Buta Tonkatsu Taiyo

Mochi Buta Tonkatsu Taiyo – the gem for tonkatsu in Shinagawa Tonkatsu is one of those Japanese dishes that's easy to make okay and hard to make really well, so when I found my way to Mochi Buta Tonkatsu Taiyo in the Koyama area of Shinagawa, expectations were high. The place is small and cozy, maybe around ten seats, and when I arrived at 12:30 there were already four people queuing outside. It took about 30 minutes to get in, but that's a good sign – and the queuing is cleverly organized. Here it's all about tonkatsu, and you can tell they've really geeked out on exactly that. The menu is in Japanese only, and already in the queue you're asked what you'd like to eat. That means the food comes very quickly once you're inside, which feels well thought out in such a small place. It's pared-back and focused in a really likeable way, one of those places where you feel someone genuinely cares about what they serve. I ordered a potato salad to start with, which was very good, and then a hire-katsu, that is, breaded pork tenderloin, served with finely shredded cabbage. It came with a soup and pickles. The food was at a really good level, well balanced and with that homemade feel that makes the whole visit. The finely shredded cabbage is a classic and welcome companion to the katsu, and the whole thing felt thoughtful and good value. The staff were very friendly. They only speak Japanese, and when Google Translate acted up, pointing worked perfectly well instead. The small space with its few seats gives a lovely, intimate feel, and even though it was full with a queue outside, it never felt stressful inside. The service pace is fast since the order is taken already in the queue, but the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. A really good little tonkatsu spot in Tokyo that's well worth the wait in the queue. If you like well-made pork tenderloin, a genuine, pared-back setting and friendly service, Mochi Buta Tonkatsu Taiyo is a place I'm happy to recommend. Bring some patience, be ready to point, and enjoy.