Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Tokyo

Katsudon-ya Zuicho is renowned for its exceptional katsudon, featuring a crispy pork cutlet atop a bed of fluffy rice, topped with a savory egg and their signature sauce. The restaurant's dedication to quality and simplicity has garnered a loyal following among both locals and tourists. Despite its small size and limited seating, the efficient service ensures a swift dining experience, with patrons often in and out within 20 minutes. The addition of an extra egg for 100 yen is highly recommended to enhance the dish's flavor. While the restaurant is cash-only, the reasonable prices and outstanding food quality make it a must-visit spot in Shibuya.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho: Tokyo's Crisp Katsudon Haven in Shibuya City Shibuya District Udagawacho Area 41-26 Japan 〒150-0042 パピエビル 26 41 パピエビル Tokyo JP 8Q7XMM7W+34 MM7W+34 Shibuya City Tokyo Japan 150-0042 26 41 Shibuya City Tokyo Japan 150-0042 Japan 150-0042 Tokyo Tokyo Shibuya City Udagawacho 41 26 パピエビル  

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Shibuya, Katsudon-ya Zuicho is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Japanese comfort food. This quaint eatery specializes in one dish: the beloved katsudon, a hearty bowl of crispy pork cutlet served over fluffy rice and topped with perfectly scrambled eggs. The atmosphere is bustling yet intimate, with only eight counter seats, making each visit feel like a personal experience. As you step inside, the rich aroma of frying pork fills the air, inviting you to indulge in a meal that promises to be both satisfying and memorable.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the katsudon, which comes in three rice sizes: small, medium, and large. The pork cutlet is fried to golden perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite. The secret lies in the **sauce**, a fragrant blend that enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish. Adding a fluffy egg elevates the experience, creating a creamy texture that beautifully complements the crispy cutlet. Each bowl is served with a side of tea and soup, making it a complete meal that warms the soul.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho is not just about food; it’s about the experience. The restaurant operates on a unique system where guests queue outside to secure their spot. Once inside, the efficiency is remarkable—each group is expected to finish their meal within thirty minutes, ensuring a quick turnover while maintaining quality. This fast-paced dining style adds to the excitement and anticipation, making each visit feel like a culinary adventure.

 The restaurant opens at 11:30 AM, but arriving early is recommended to avoid long lines.

 Unfortunately, the menu is exclusively focused on katsudon, so vegetarian options are not available.

 Yes, the restaurant only accepts cash, so be sure to bring yen.

What should I expect in terms of wait time?

 Expect to wait at least 20-30 minutes during peak hours, but the line moves quickly.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Japanese cuisine in Tokyo. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the experience of savoring a delicious katsudon in this cozy setting is one you won’t forget. Come and join the queue, and indulge in a meal that embodies the heart of Japanese comfort food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNId0plaW5BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCZkGEqyMGGAR72gGFgeNxEE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNId0plaW5BRRAB

Came here because of the great ratings and it didn’t disappoint! Despite waiting in line for 25+ minutes in the rain, I was pleased with how the staff kept the line so organized and running efficiently. We were told how the line operated and placed our order outside with a kind man prior to entering. They present you with an English menu if needed. Once inside, you’re seated at 1 of 8!bar chairs and quickly served your dishes. The one dish they offer of Katsudon over scrambled eggs and mouthwatering soy soaked rice was divine. Truly, one of my favorite meals in Tokyo and so well priced! I’ll definitely make a point to stop by again whenever in town.

Pros: incredibly well priced & delicious food
Cons: always a line & Cash 💴 only

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzbTlHNEh3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCZkGEqyMGGAR72gGFgeNxEE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzbTlHNEh3EAE

Best Katsudon ever!!! Came because of family recommendation and definitely wasn’t disappointed. I queued at 1040am and managed to get first seating (8 counter seats only). If the kitchen is ready, they’ll open before 11.30am. I was let in at 11am!

There is only one menu item, with rice size option S/M/L and add egg or not. Please add the egg!!! The egg is so fluffy! The pork cutlets and prepared on the spot and fried in small batches before serving. Not too fatty! The sauce that they use for the dish was so fragrant!!!! The set comes with tea and soup.

It’s a must visit place in Tokyo. If I am back in the city, I’ll definitely come here. The queue moves fast as you’re expected not to chitchat or eat slowly here. Seems like each group clears in half an hour or less.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMmFMU1d3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCZkGEqyMGGAR72gGFgeNxEE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMmFMU1d3EAE

This was one of my favorite places to eat! We actually came and ate here twice! There is very limited space, prepare to wait if you come during lunch hours! The rice, Katsu and egg were perfect combination together. The first time I got a small and should have ordered a medium. Literally you eat and go! There’s no chatting and talking after you finish eating. Cash only!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIMnFMdW53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCZkGEqyMGGAR72gGFgeNxEE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIMnFMdW53RRAB

There’re 2 steps for an in-person reservation. First, you need to be in a queue and wait for the attendant to assign a slot. I joined the queue at 12.30 and I’ve got a slot at 1.30 PM. The attendant will ask whether you want to have S/M/L amount of rice with the same price 1,500¥. Then, you’re free to leave the queue and come back for the assigned slot. The slice of pork is relatively thin but the texture is nice. It’s crispy on the outside. The sauce tastes perfect. It was not too sweet or salty.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQbnB1U3J3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCZkGEqyMGGAR72gGFgeNxEE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQbnB1U3J3RRAB

WORTH THE WAIT! Easily one of my favorite restaurants in Japan. I recommend adding the extra egg, it’s worth it!

It was a little confusing, but there was a line outside when I arrived. The host was efficient in taking peoples names down and setting a time slot for them. The confusing part was the “separate” line where the customers were waiting to be seated. If you don’t have a time slot, make sure you wait in the correct line!

Luckily, I was a party of 1 and only had to wait about 15 minutes to put my name down, and the next available slot was in 10 minutes.

Sooooooo fxxxxxxking goooooooooooood.

I tried coming back on my last day in Tokyo, but they were closed due to a holiday :(

Highly recommend!!!

Top Katsudon Restaurant in Shibuya, Tokyo - Katsudon-ya Zuicho

Katsudon-ya Zuicho, established in 2013, has become a beloved spot in Shibuya, Tokyo, specializing in a unique style of katsudon where the crispy pork cutlet is placed atop a bed of egg and rice, rather than being cooked together. This innovative approach has set a new standard for katsudon in Tokyo.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho History and Legacy in Tokyo's Culinary Scene 

Nestled in the vibrant district of Udagawachō, Shibuya City, Tokyo, 

 has carved out an iconic place in Japan's culinary landscape since its establishment in the early 2010s. Revered for reinventing the traditional katsudon, this cozy restaurant has become a pilgrimage site for food lovers eager to savor authentic Japanese flavors with a creative twist.

In 2013, Katsudon-ya Zuicho distinguished itself by popularizing a novel serving technique: placing the pork cutlet atop the fluffy scrambled eggs rather than beneath them. This small but significant innovation preserved the cutlet's crispiness, elevating the katsudon experience to new heights. This signature style captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike, making the restaurant a destination for those seeking not just a meal but a memorable culinary encounter.

By 2018, Katsudon-ya Zuicho had caught the attention of the global food community, propelled by enthusiastic travel blogs and the power of social media. This surge in international recognition brought a new wave of visitors eager to experience the restaurant's famed katsudon first-hand. Despite its modest size and the inevitable queues, patrons rave about the seamless service and the exceptional quality that justifies the wait.

The year 2020 marked another milestone as Katsudon-ya Zuicho was featured prominently in various food guides and culinary articles, cementing its status as a must-visit eatery in Tokyo. The restaurant's dedication to quality ingredients, expert preparation, and a focused menu has sustained its reputation. The experience is further enriched by attentive staff and an atmosphere that encourages savoring each bite without distractions — truly a celebration of simplicity and taste.

 Katsudon-ya Zuicho popularized serving the pork cutlet atop the egg in Katsudon.

 The restaurant gained international attention through travel blogs and social media.

 Katsudon-ya Zuicho was featured in various food guides and articles.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho is a hidden gem in the vibrant Udagawachō district of Shibuya City, Tokyo, known for its authentic Japanese comfort food, particularly its delicious katsudon. The warm ambience and rich aromas create a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and travelers.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho

Dine-in

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

In the vibrant heart of Tokyo's Shibuya City, Katsudon-ya Zuicho is a hidden gem offering authentic Japanese comfort food, specializing in katsudon, a delicious dish of breaded pork cutlet over rice. The warm ambience and rich aromas create an inviting dining experience, making it a must-visit for food lovers in Tokyo.

Specializing in a single dish, Katsudon-ya Zuicho offers a delectable katsudon featuring a crispy pork cutlet atop a bed of fluffy rice, topped with a savory egg and their signature sauce.

Katsudon

Katsudon-ya Zuicho Menu

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district, Katsudon-ya Zuicho is a culinary gem specializing exclusively in the art of katsudon. This traditional Japanese dish features a perfectly breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet layered over steaming rice, enveloped by a fluffy, savory egg, and drenched in a fragrant, sweet-and-savory sauce that melds each element into a harmonious bite. The menu here is beautifully focused, offering just this one iconic main, allowing the kitchen to perfect every detail of its preparation.

At Katsudon-ya Zuicho, the focus is on the main attraction: the katsudon itself. Handcrafted with care, the pork cutlets are freshly fried in small batches to ensure a crisp exterior without excess oiliness. The tender pork, combined with the fluffy scrambled eggs and the signature soy-infused rice, offers a comforting yet sophisticated dining experience that has earned it rave reviews from locals and travelers alike. Diners can select their preferred rice portion size from small, medium, or large, with the option to add an extra egg for an even richer flavor and texture.

While Katsudon-ya Zuicho’s menu is focused on providing the ultimate katsudon experience, guests can complement their meal with a selection of traditional Japanese teas and a variety of beers, perfectly suited to wash down the savory richness of the dish. Note that the establishment does not serve desserts, wine, coffee, or cocktails, keeping its beverage offerings simple yet satisfying.

This intimate eatery offers seating at only eight bar chairs, creating a cozy atmosphere where patrons can enjoy their meal quickly and efficiently. The kitchen prepares each katsudon dish to order, frying pork cutlets fresh and serving them with care. The efficient queue and seating system ensure quick turnover, making it an ideal spot for both solo diners and those wanting a genuine local experience without lingering. Though the restaurant accepts cash only and does not provide reservations, the consistent praise for the mouthwatering katsudon and affordable pricing make the wait worthwhile.

 - Katsudon with breaded pork cutlet, fluffy egg, rice, and fragrant sauce prepared fresh on-site.

 - Japanese teas and beer complement the meal perfectly.

 - Casual, intimate setting with only eight bar seats and an emphasis on efficient service.

 - Cash only, adding to the authentic local experience.

Savor authentic Katsudon at Katsudon-ya Zuicho in Shibuya, Tokyo. Indulge in mouth-watering flavors today! Experience the essence of Japan!

Katsudon-ya Zuicho: Best Katsudon in Shibuya, Tokyo

Shibuya City Municipality

Enhance your katsudon with an additional egg for a richer flavor.

Extra Egg

Complement your meal with a refreshing beer.

Beer

katsudon-ya zuicho in shibuya tokyo japan dining experience overview and menu highlights

Nestled in the vibrant district of Shibuya City, Tokyo, Katsudon-ya Zuicho offers a uniquely authentic Japanese dining experience that captivates food enthusiasts and travelers alike. This cozy restaurant specializes exclusively in 

, a beloved Japanese comfort food. Combining crispy pork cutlets with a savory-sweet sauce and a fluffy egg over perfectly steamed soy-soaked rice, this dish exemplifies the heart of Japanese home cooking with a gourmet twist.

what makes katsudon-ya zuicho a must-visit in tokyo

Despite its unassuming facade tucked inside the パピエビル building on Udagawachō street, Katsudon-ya Zuicho draws devoted fans who don't mind queuing—rain or shine! The staff's remarkable efficiency and friendliness keep the line organized and the wait fairly swift. Seating is limited to eight bar stools, creating an intimate environment where every dish is crafted fresh in small batches. Their meticulous approach ensures each katsudon is crispy but not greasy, with a perfectly balanced sauce that complements the fluffy eggs and fragrant rice.

Katsudon-ya Zuicho offers a streamlined menu featuring just one specialty: their signature katsudon. Diners can choose from small, medium, or large rice portions, all priced at an excellent value of 1500 JPY. Adding the egg is highly recommended — it’s celebrated for its light, fluffy texture that perfectly complements the crispy pork cutlet and savory sauce. The set also includes a side of tea and soup, completing a satisfying and authentic meal.

 - The small size and popularity mean queues are typical, especially around lunch hours. Patience is rewarded with one of Tokyo’s best katsudon dishes.

 - Be sure to bring cash, as the restaurant does not accept cards or digital payments.

 - With only eight bar stools, this spot is designed for quick, focused dining rather than lingering or group gatherings.

 - Helpful for international visitors, the staff provide an English menu and clear ordering instructions.

For anyone exploring Tokyo's buzzing Shibuya district, Katsudon-ya Zuicho represents a culinary gem where quality and tradition meet affordability. Its dedication to perfecting a single dish means guests enjoy a consistently delicious meal every time. Whether you're a foodie eager to sample authentic Japanese comfort food or a traveler seeking an efficient yet memorable dining stop, this katsudon haven promises a satisfying experience that will have you coming back on your next visit to Japan.

Experience the best Katsudon in Tokyo! Join us at Katsudon-ya Zuicho for delicious pork cutlets and savory sauce. Don't miss our amazing dish!

Savor Katsudon at Katsudon-ya Zuicho, Shibuya

Discover tips for visiting Katsudon-ya Zuicho in Shibuya. Learn about menu offerings and the best times to enjoy an authentic Katsudon!

Ultimate Guide to Katsudon-ya Zuicho, Tokyo

Learn the history of Katsudon-ya Zuicho, famous for its unique Katsudon. Discover why this restaurant is a must-visit in Tokyo.

Top Katsudon Restaurant in Shibuya, Tokyo - Katsudon-ya Zuicho

Dining & Culinary Delights.

Signature Highlights.

FAQs.

Visit Us Today!

Noan

STUDIO MULE

Nikuya Yokocho Udagawacho