01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
The main draw at Ichikatsu is the chance to enjoy a generously thick cut of pork fried to a golden crunch without spending a small fortune. Its mainstay loin cutlet set meal, or rosu katsu teishoku, pairs tender pork encased in crisp, fragrant panko with a classic sweet brown sauce and fiery hot mustard, balancing the savory meat and sweet ribbons of fat.
Diners arriving with a serious appetite often choose the large loin cutlet set meal, which ups the cut to around 200 g, while those after something leaner and exceptionally tender lean toward the fillet cutlet set meal in standard or large portions. If you want a step up in pork quality, the premium loin cutlet set is available alongside varied combinations such as the mixed fry set—pairing skewered pork kushikatsu, fried horse mackerel, and fried squid—or a fried horse mackerel ordered separately.
Even standard orders of rice arrive generous in size, balanced by finely shredded cabbage, a comforting bowl of shijimi clam miso soup, and crisp pickles that refresh the palate between bites of fried pork. Those sitting down with a cold draft beer or sake can also order wasabi kelp on the side, lending a zesty, sinus-clearing punctuation to the meal.
Tucked near the train tracks by Asakusabashi Station, the narrow storefront accommodates diners at a first-floor counter right in front of the fryers, as well as at second-floor tables suited for a quieter pace. Takeaway bento boxes are fried fresh to order. Bear in mind that payment is strictly cash only, so having bills and coins on hand will save any hassle at the register.
