Introduction
This article features Tonkatsu Yamasaki in Shinjuku’s Akebonobashi area. Opened in April 2015 as a sibling to the well-known Okachimachi tonkatsu shop Yamabe, it sits just off Akebonobashi Shopping Street, about two minutes from the station. We visited on a weekday at lunchtime to try the Hirekatsu Set and the Oyster Fry Set.
Tonkatsu Yamasaki in Akebonobashi
“Tonkatsu Yamasaki” opened in April 2015 as a sibling shop to Yamabe, a popular tonkatsu restaurant in Okachimachi. It stands a short walk from Akebonobashi Station—enter Akebonobashi Shopping Street and turn into the right-side alley.
Interior and Menu
The interior is tidy and clean, with about 20 seats split between counter and tables. During weekday lunch, many guests are men seated at the counter.
Menu (partial; price increase scheduled from December 1, 2025):
- Rosukatsu Set: 850 yen (tax included)
- Hirekatsu Set: 1,050 yen
- Mix Fry Set: 950 yen
- Large Rosukatsu Set: 1,050 yen
- Large Hirekatsu Set: 1,350 yen
- Oyster Fry Set: 1,200 yen
- Special Rosukatsu Set: 1,550 yen
Besides set meals, individual fried items and small otsumami for drinks are available.
Hirekatsu Set & Oyster Fry Set
After ordering, you receive yuzu-accented pickles and tea.
Hirekatsu Set (1,050 yen).
The set includes thick, crisply fried pork fillet cutlets, white rice, and shijimi clam soup. The hirekatsu has satisfying thickness and crunch. Sauce and karashi mustard complement it well. The rice is slightly firm—an appealing texture—and large rice is free, making it tempting for a future visit.
Oyster Fry Set (1,200 yen).
Five evenly arranged, beautifully fried oysters are served with tartar sauce for an enjoyable change of flavor. The oysters are very juicy—an excellent seasonal winter treat. The finely shredded cabbage is thin and easy to eat, with no residual moisture thanks to careful draining—small details that stand out.
Summary
“Tonkatsu Yamasaki” offers not only low prices but also solid quality and consistent flavor—excellent cost performance. The takeaway menu is substantial, making it handy when you want one more side dish for dinner. If you are nearby, it is well worth a visit.
Shop Information
Name: Tonkatsu Yamasaki
Address: Komatsu Bldg. 1F, 6-10 Sumiyoshi-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0065
Nearest Station: About 2 minutes on foot from Akebonobashi Station (approx. 106 m)
Hours: 11:00–14:45 / 17:00–21:00
Closed: Irregular
Power Outlets: No
Wi-Fi: No
Smoking: No
Notes: ~20 seats; cash only
Tabelog Rating: 3.48 (as of December 2025)
Looking for the original article in Japanese?
Click here to view the Japanese version on Daily Shinjuku.（https://daily-shinjuku.tokyo/2025/12/09/akebonobashi-tonkatsu-yamasaki/）
