Kochiya Tonkatsu
A hidden gem in a residential area of Higashiryoke, Kawaguchi, unanimously called 'the tonkatsu place in Kawaguchi' by locals. Run by a couple, this small restaurant ranked 1st in Saitama Prefecture's Google review ranking for tonkatsu shops in October 2024, and 2nd in April 2025. With 345 Google reviews and a 4.4 rating, it consistently has queues of 5+ groups at lunchtime. The loin cutlet is so tender it can be cut with chopsticks, and the jumbo shrimp fry is famously oversized. Oil used only once keeps the flavor light and non-greasy—regulars return every week. Price range ¥1,000–¥2,999, outstanding value.
"The tonkatsu is so tender it cuts with chopsticks—a miracle at this price." "On weekends, people queue before opening. Still worth it." "The shrimp fry is 3x bigger than you expect, yet perfectly crispy fresh from the fryer." "Ranked #1 on Google—after eating here, I completely understand why."