INTRODUCTION
Tonkatsu is one dish that cannot be missed when experiencing Japanese Food Culture. One of the most highly regarded of these restaurants is Tonkatsu Saboten, which was founded in 1966 and has attracted many fans for its quality and taste.
The appeal of Tonkatsu Saboten lies in its artisanal tonkatsu made with carefully selected pork. The latest news is the Ekia Takenotsuka branch, which newly relocated and opened under the elevated Takenotsuka Station in May 2024. At the new location, customers can enjoy Saboten’s excellent pork cutlets in a more comfortable space.
Saboten’s menu offers a wide variety of items such as Tokusen Yawaraka Hire Katsu and SaboRED Roast Katsu. Each item on the menu is prepared using a unique method to maximize the flavor of the pork. The filet cutlet, in particular, is highly praised by many customers for its tender and juicy texture.
Furthermore, Saboten offers a full range of takeout and delivery services, allowing customers to enjoy the taste of the restaurant at home. Particularly popular takeout menu items include filet mignon and fried prawns, which can be easily enjoyed during busy daily routines or while sightseeing.
Tonkatsu Saboten has numerous locations throughout Japan, each offering unique menus and services in their respective regions. For the latest information and campaigns, please check the official website and SNS for updates before visiting.
Experience Tonkatsu Saboten’s excellent pork cutlets and get a deep taste of Japanese Food Culture.
Recommended Menu
Tonkatsu Saboten’s menu is diverse and varied, with a lineup to satisfy everyone. Below are some of our most recommended menu items.
SaboRED Loose Katsu Bento
SaboRED Roast Katsu Bento is a popular menu item featuring juicy roast pork cutlet; it contains a 100g piece of roast pork cutlet and is priced at 950 yen (tax included). This bento uses specially adjusted bread crumbs to maintain the same quality as in the restaurant even when you take it home, so you can enjoy the taste of the restaurant at home.
Special Yawaraka Hire Katsu Bento
Tokusen Yawaraka Hire Katsu Bento is a dish using tender and juicy filet mignon for 990 yen (tax included). This bento goes perfectly with Saboten’s special sauce and is a popular item with many repeat customers.
22-Layer Soft Loin Stacked Katsu Bento
This unique menu item features 22 layers of loin cutlets, served with grated ponzu sauce for 990 yen (tax included). The layered process makes the cutlet softer and juicier than a regular loin cutlet.
Specially selected filet and shrimp bento
This sumptuous bento includes Tokusen Yawaraka Hire Katsu and Fried Shrimp, and is priced at 1,215 yen (tax included). This bento has a reputation for being hearty and satisfying.
Mix Bento
The mixed bento is a value-priced set that includes fried prawns, a bite-sized filet cutlet, and a crab cream croquette, and is priced at 980 yen (tax included). It is especially recommended for first-time visitors to Saboten, as the combination of different ingredients can be enjoyed.
Saboten Bento
The Saboten bento box lunch box, which includes a well-balanced combination of fried prawns, half loin cutlet, and a small piece of fillet cutlet, is priced at 1,100 yen (tax included). Offering a variety of flavors all at once, this bento is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Deluxe Bento
The deluxe bento is a sumptuous bento that includes fried shrimp, half loin katsu, a bite-sized fillet katsu, and ginger soy sauce fried chicken, priced at 1,200 yen (tax included). This menu is ideal for a special occasion meal or a treat.
Kids Menu
Saboten is family friendly and offers an extensive kids menu. Smaller portions for children to enjoy and served on cute plates, so little ones can enjoy their meals with ease.
All of Tonkatsu Saboten’s menu items are made with high quality ingredients and expertly prepared. Please visit us and find your favorite dish. For the latest menu information and campaigns, you can check the official website and SNS.
Experience and Enjoy
The dining experience at Tonkatsu Saboten is more than just a meal. There are various points to deeply savor and enjoy Japanese Food Culture.
The joy of grating sesame
At Tonkatsu Saboten, you can grind sesame seeds in a mortar and pestle to make your own sauce before the Tonkatsu you ordered is served. This process turns the wait into a pleasure and provides the pleasure of tasting the tonkatsu with your own original sauce. Lightly grated sesame seeds enhance the flavor of the tonkatsu, and the aroma of sesame enhances the flavor of the tonkatsu.
Free Refill Service
At Saboten, refills of rice, miso soup, and cabbage are free. This refill service is especially popular at Shinjuku Saboten, where it originated from the desire to provide customers with plenty of food. Thanks to this service, you can fully enjoy a hearty meal.
Seasonal Menu
A limited menu that changes with the seasons is another of Saboten’s attractions. The menu takes advantage of seasonal ingredients, such as tonkatsu served with refreshing sakura shrimps kakiage in the spring, and chilled tonkatsu with refreshing grated ponzu in the summer. These limited-edition menus are sure to be enjoyed again and again, with a new taste sensation to be discovered each time you visit.
Takeout and Delivery
Saboten’s extensive take-out and delivery services allow you to enjoy Saboten’s delicious tonkatsu even during your busy daily routine or while traveling. Particularly popular takeout menu items include filet mignon bento and fried prawns, allowing you to enjoy the taste of the restaurant at home or while staying overnight.
Kid Friendly Environment
Saboten offers a family-friendly environment. Children’s chairs and plates are provided, allowing diners with young children to enjoy their meals with peace of mind. We also have an extensive kids’ menu, offering meals that will satisfy even the youngest of children.
A Deep Taste of Japanese Food Culture
A meal at Saboten is more than just a meal; it is an experience to deeply understand and enjoy Japanese Food Culture. Traditional cooking methods, a menu that incorporates new and tried-and-true techniques, and attentive service all enrich one’s dining experience.
To maximize your dining experience at Tonkatsu Saboten, please refer to these pointers. For the latest menu and campaign information, we recommend checking the official website and SNS.
Manners
In order to enjoy your meal at Tonkatsu Saboten, it is important to understand Japanese dining etiquette. The following are some of the manners that will help you to fully enjoy our delicious tonkatsu while respecting Japanese culture.
Manners when taking a seat
When you enter a Tonkatsu Saboten restaurant, follow the waiter’s directions and take your seat. In some cases, especially in restaurants with Japanese-style interiors, you may be required to take off your shoes. When taking off your shoes, be sure to place them neatly on the floor.
Manners when ordering
Look carefully at the menu and decide what you would like to order. When ordering, be courteous to the waiter. Although English is often understood, using basic phrases such as ” Okaishimasu” and “Arigato (Thank you)” in Japanese will help you communicate with the waiter better.
Manners during meals
Be careful how you use chopsticks. Stabbing food with chopsticks or sticking chopsticks into a bowl is considered bad manners. Use chopsticks to carefully share your food. It is also important to express gratitude by saying “Itadakimasu” (Thank you for the food) when the food is served.
Grated sesame seeds
At Saboten, you can experience grating sesame seeds to make sauce. This is a process that can be enjoyed before the tonkatsu is served. Grate the sesame seeds lightly in a mortar and pestle to make your own favorite sauce. This is part of Japanese Food Culture and adds to the enjoyment of the meal.
Free Refill Service
At Saboten, refills of rice, miso soup, and cabbage are free. When asking for a refill, politely tell the waiter, “I would like another bowl of rice, please. Take advantage of this service and enjoy your meal until you are satisfied.
After-meal manners
When you finish your meal, express your gratitude by saying “Gochisoso-sama desu” (Thank you for the meal). This phrase is very important in Japanese dining etiquette. Expressing gratitude makes the dining experience even richer. You can also show your courtesy to the waiter by cleaning the table and packing up the dishes you used.
Take-out etiquette
Take-out is also popular at Saboten. When using take-out, it is best to place your order in advance by phone or online. When picking up your order at the store, be polite and show your appreciation to the waiter.
By observing these manners, your dining experience at Tonkatsu Saboten will be more enjoyable and you will gain a deeper understanding of Japanese Food Culture. By keeping these points in mind before you visit, you will be able to enjoy a pleasant and memorable dining experience. Please check the official website and SNS for the latest information and campaigns.
Stores
Tonkatsu Saboten has a large number of stores spread throughout Japan, each offering unique menus and services. Below are some of the major stores that are especially worth visiting.
Aoyama Honten
- Address: 4-8-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Opening hours: 11:00-22:00 (last order 21:30)
- Features: As the birthplace of Saboten, the restaurant’s historic interior has a relaxed Japanese-style atmosphere. Special filet mignon and seasonal menu items are popular.
Shinjuku Takashimaya
- Address: Shinjuku Takashimaya Department Store 12th floor, 5-24-2 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Opening hours: 11:00 – 23:00 (last order 22:00)
- Features: Conveniently located in the heart of Shinjuku, this is a great place to stop by while shopping. The set menu is especially popular during lunch time.
Gransta Tokyo Branch
- Address: Gransta Tokyo, B1F, JR Tokyo Station, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Opening hours: 8:00-22:00 weekdays and Saturdays, 8:00-21:00 Sundays and holidays
- Features: Conveniently located inside Tokyo Station for travelers. Limited menu and to-go bento boxes are also available.
tama-plaza terrace branch
- Address: TAMAPLAZA TERRACE, 1-1-2, Biyogaoka, Aoba-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00 (last order 20:30)
- Features: Well-equipped for families, with a kids’ menu and chairs for children. A store where families can enjoy themselves together with shopping.
Osaka Umeda Store
- Address: Osaka Station City South Gate Building, 3-1-1 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
- Opening hours: 11:00 – 23:00 (last order 22:00)
- Features: Located in a major shopping area of Osaka, customers can enjoy delicious tonkatsu while shopping. The “Aged Sangen Mugi Pork Loin Katsu” is especially popular.
Kyoto Isetan Store
- Address: JR Kyoto Isetan, Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Shiokoji-sagaru, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
- Opening hours: 11:00-22:00 (last order 21:30)
- Features: Directly connected to Kyoto Station, making it easy to stop by during sightseeing. Limited-edition menu using local ingredients is attractive.
Nagoya Takashimaya
- Address: Nagoya Takashimaya, 1-1-1 Meieki Minami, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi
- Opening hours: 11:00 – 23:00 (last order 22:00)
- Features: Directly connected to Nagoya Station for easy access. The hearty set menu is popular, especially the “Filet Katsu and Fried Shrimp Set” is highly recommended.
Fukuoka Tenjin Branch
- Address: Tenjin Underground Mall 1, 2-chome, Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00 (last order 20:30)
- Features: Located in the Tenjin underground shopping mall, this is a great place to stop by while shopping. The “Saboten bento” is especially popular.
News and promotions
- Limited Menu: Seasonal limited menu changes each season, offering a new discovery and a special experience each time you visit.
- Campaign Information: Regular stamp campaigns and special discounts for a limited time can be found on the official website and SNS.
Each Tonkatsu Saboten restaurant has a different regional attraction and every restaurant is worth a visit. Check out the latest information and promotions to help you plan your next dining experience.
Reservations and queue management
Tonkatsu Saboten is a very popular restaurant, so lines often form, especially on weekends and holidays. Here are some tips on how to make reservations and how to avoid lines so that you can enjoy your meal comfortably.
How to make a reservation
- Reservations by phone: Many Saboten restaurants accept reservations by phone. Making reservations in advance, especially at the most popular stores, can greatly reduce waiting time. We recommend that you confirm the date and time of your planned visit and make your reservation well in advance.
- Online Reservations: Some stores also accept online reservations. Reservations can be easily made through the official website or affiliated reservation sites, and availability can be checked in real time. This service is especially convenient for tourists.
Measures to Prevent Lines
- Aim for off-peak hours: You can reduce waiting time by avoiding busy times. We recommend slightly off-peak lunch hours on weekdays and early dinner hours. 2.
- Take-out: If you are pressed for time or the restaurant is full, take-out is another option. You can enjoy Saboten’s delicious tonkatsu at home or at your accommodation.
- Check the menu in advance: Checking the menu in advance will help you order smoothly on site. It is a good idea to check the latest menu on the official website and SNS.
Recommended time of day
- Before lunch time on weekdays: The restaurant is often relatively empty around 11:00 on weekdays. If you visit during this time, you are more likely to be able to enter the restaurant smoothly.
- Just after dinner time: Avoid the dinner time crowds and visit around 6:00 p.m. or after 8:00 p.m., and you can expect a shorter wait time.
Other Measures
- Check the cancellation policy: When making a reservation, it is important to check the cancellation policy. Choose a restaurant that is flexible to accommodate sudden schedule changes.
- Visiting with a group: If you are visiting with a large group, contacting the restaurant in advance may make it easier to secure a seat. Early reservations are recommended, especially during busy periods.
By utilizing these measures, you can enjoy your meal at Tonkatsu Saboten without stress. The latest reservation status and crowd information can be found on the official website and SNS, so please check before visiting.
Reviews and Ratings
Tonkatsu Saboten is loved by many for its great taste and service. Here are some reviews and ratings from actual customers.
Taste and Quality.
- Special Filet Katsu: Many users rave about the tenderness and juiciness of Saboten’s special filet cutlets. The Best Pork Cutlet I’ve ever had” is one of the most common comments.
- Special sauce: The experience of grating sesame seeds to make your own favorite sauce is well-received as a delight not only to the sense of taste, but also to the senses of sight and smell.
Service
- Customer Service: Many reviews praise the kindness and politeness of the waitstaff. Many say they are especially friendly and accommodating to foreign tourists.
- Ambiance: The clean and relaxing Japanese-style interior is highly praised for providing a relaxing dining space.
Cost Performance
- Price and Satisfaction: Many customers comment that the food at Saboten is fairly priced for the quality of the food. The lunch menu is particularly popular for its reasonable prices and high level of satisfaction.
- Free refills: Many users also appreciate the free refills of rice, miso soup, and cabbage.
Convenience
- Accessibility: The restaurant near Shinjuku Station is also well-received for its accessibility. It is a convenient location to stop by during sightseeing or shopping.
- Online Reservations: Online reservations are available at some locations, which is also appreciated, especially by tourists.
Overall Rating.
- Reviews: Highly rated on review sites such as Retty, Eat Log, and TripAdvisor, the restaurant is highly rated for its taste, service, and value for money.
- Users’ Opinions: Many reviewers rate their dining experience at Saboten as “beyond expectations,” and many are repeat customers.
We encourage you to use these ratings as a guide to your dining experience at Tonkatsu Saboten. For the most up-to-date reviews and ratings, we recommend checking our review sites and official website.
Summary
Tonkatsu Saboten is a restaurant where you can experience Japanese Food Culture in depth. Its high quality tonkatsu and excellent service are loved by many people in Japan and abroad. Below is a summary of Tonkatsu Saboten’s appeal.
Wide Variety of Menu
Tonkatsu Saboten offers a wide variety of menu items, including specially selected filet mignon and SaboRED loin cutlets. Each dish is prepared with carefully selected ingredients and craftsmanship. The seasonal menu, in particular, offers a new taste sensation each time you visit.
Excellent Service
Saboten’s waitstaff provides courteous and friendly service. They are kind to foreign tourists and provide a safe and comfortable environment in which to enjoy their meals. The restaurant features a clean and relaxing Japanese-style interior, providing a relaxing dining space.
Cost Performance
Despite the high quality of Saboten’s food, it is reasonably priced. The lunch menu, in particular, has a reputation for high cost performance and extremely high satisfaction. Many users also appreciate the free refills of rice, miso soup, and cabbage.
Easy Access
Tonkatsu Saboten has many locations throughout Japan, each conveniently located. Locations near major transportation hubs such as Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station, and Umeda Station in Osaka are ideal for stopping by while sightseeing or shopping.
Highly Rated Reviews
Highly rated on word-of-mouth sites, our restaurants are highly satisfactory in terms of taste, service, and cost performance. Many patrons report a dining experience that “exceeds expectations,” and many are repeat customers.
Dining at Tonkatsu Saboten is an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and enjoyment of Japanese Food Culture. We encourage you to visit Tonkatsu Saboten on your next trip to Japan or on your next dining out experience. For the latest information and promotions, please check the official website and SNS.
