I like mum and pop stall , I like surprises, I got both here. Some small business owners in one of Tokyo busiest streets back alley. You could tell the building has a history. First time I have tonkastu that is rolled up and fried. It's surprising tender and juicy. Their tonjiru is also process with caramelise onion and pan fried bacon. Prawn is huge here yet not too dry .. the combination of everything made it special and wabi sabi ( perfect in imperfections.)

+3

History speaks for itself. This place has been around since 1921. The tondon is worth it. Just get the large portion. I would love to go again if I have no more new places to try. The fried katsu was juicy. The curry was spicy but it wasn't uncomfortable like you just ate a ghost pepper. It had a slight kick to it. I would love to try there other dishes.

Classic traditional Japanese Donkatsu place. Old lady was kind and food was reasonally priced (1150yen) and delicious! Th batter was slightly think but crispy. Curry and donkatsu sause were tasty and slight tangy - good balance. The ball looked small at the beginning but pretty full after finish. Glad to find some old locals in Shinjuku. (No draft beer/ bottled only but still good) FYI, cash only.

Very polite lady working as waiting staff as well as the head chef who both appear very experienced. I waited in a queue briefly outside and already decided on my order by translating the menu and also having a local behind tell me what he recommends. I was given an English menu when seated anyway which was nice of her, and ordered the tonkatsu set with an optional extra piece of shrimp and a beer. This was my last authentic meal in Japan before leaving and glad I chose this place. Very homely feel and excellent food. Food was very fresh and the sauce which is provided in a ceramic pot on the counter was delicious and appeared homemade. Also got a cup of green tea whilst waiting. Pork broth as part of the set was also tasty and hearty, and different to other soups I'd had during my trip. Well worth a visit imo.

Recently had a curry rice bowl here 5 years after I first had it and it's still as good as ever. Popular with tourists and salarymen, it's a great affordable feed in the Shinjuku area