Tonkatsu 16 Hiroshima Review: The Best Pork Cutlet

Of all the meals during my last trip to Hiroshima, the most memorable one was easily at Tonkatsu 16.

I couldn't stop thinking about it even after returning home, so I made sure to revisit on this latest trip.

Going out of your way to revisit a spot is the ultimate proof that it is a truly reliable local gem :)

Tonkatsu 16

Hours: 11:30 AM ~ 8:00 PM

Break Time: 2:00 PM ~ 5:30 PM

#1 Rated on Hiroshima Tabelog / Tiny 6-Seat Counter

Google Rating: 4.8 / Cash Only

⚠️ Make sure to check their Instagram for irregular holidays!

Tonkatsu 16 · Japan, 〒730-0028 Hiroshima, Naka Ward, Nagarekawacho, 5−19 Casablanca Building 1Fmaps.app.goo.gl

How to Book a Spot

Since Tonkatsu 16 in Hiroshima rarely accepts walk-ins, booking a reservation in advance is absolutely essential.

▼ Tonkatsu 16 Instagram ▼

Tonkatsu 16 (@tonkatsu16_) • Instagram Photos and Videoswww.instagram.com

When you send a reservation inquiry via Instagram DM, they will reply asking for your name, phone number, and preferred time. Simply reply with those details to secure your booking.

The owner mentioned that no-shows have been an issue lately, so please make sure to show up if you book! 😥

I remember having trouble finding the restaurant on my first visit, so I took a video of the path.

It's located inside a larger building housing multiple shops, so keeping an eye out for the building entrance will make finding it much easier.

With only 6 counter seats, it's an incredibly intimate space, yet it holds the prestigious #1 spot for tonkatsu in Hiroshima on Tabelog.

Even in such a tight space, there is absolutely no heavy oil smell, making the wait incredibly pleasant.

Menu & Pricing

The menu lets you choose between loin (rosu) and tenderloin (hire) first, and then you can select your preferred level of fat and tenderness.

If you're unsure, they are happy to give recommendations, and their English is excellent, so communication is a breeze.

Prices vary depending on the specific breed of pork you choose, but you can expect to spend around ~$19 per person.

For a standard portion, 180g (around 6.3 oz) is perfect, and this price covers the full set meal including rice, miso soup, and shredded cabbage.

Here is the drink menu! While a cold draft beer is the ultimate pairing for deep-fried goodness, they only serve bottled beer here, which is still fantastic.

They cook the tonkatsu at a low temperature, which takes a bit of extra time, but the wait didn't feel long at all.

At your seat, you'll find various condiments, including cabbage dressing and premium salts.

If you want to try out different sauces, feel free to ask for an extra small plate.

Of course, I had to order a refreshing beer to pair with the crispy katsu! 🍺

This is how the set meal is presented. You can get one free refill of rice, soup, and cabbage!

I'm a purist who prefers salt, and dipping this high-quality pork in just a touch of salt is absolute heaven. 😇

It's incredibly delicious even without any seasoning. Despite the low-temperature frying, there is absolutely no gamey odor—just pure, juicy, and rich pork flavor.

I had a packed schedule that day and had been fasting all day until this first meal at 8:00 PM.

Usually, I can't eat much when I'm overly hungry, but knowing I might not be back in Hiroshima for a while, I happily devoured every single bite.

If you're hunting for the absolute best food in Hiroshima, make sure to add this spot to your itinerary.

Living up to its #1 Tabelog ranking, the food is exceptional, and the owner is incredibly welcoming. Even if you don't speak Japanese, ordering is easy. I will definitely be coming back the next time I find myself in Hiroshima!

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