Yabaton

You'll recognize this Everyman's eatery in Nagoya's downtown district immediately by its curtains displaying comical pigs dressed like sumo wrestlers. In operation since 1947, its interior is all about pigs and sumo (I'll let you draw your own conclusions about the connection). It's famous for its tonkatsu (pork cutlet), and you'll be asked whether you want yours with its homemade sauce (sa-u-zu) or red miso; the former is thicker and sweeter, but the latter is the specialty here (if you don't specify, you'll be served the miso, but if you can't decide, ask for a little of both). Donburi, a breaded and fried pork cutlet on rice, is the cheapest, but recommended is hire, a tender cut with less fat. Main dishes all come with cabbage; rice or miso soup costs extra. Deep-fried vegetables and seafood (scallops, oysters) are also available. And in case you're interested, Yabaton souvenirs -- T-shirts, key chains, towels -- are for sale, all adorned with comical pigs dressed like sumo wrestlers and baseball players. There's a branch in nearby La Chic shopping complex, on the seventh floor (tel. 052/269-7070; daily 11am-11pm).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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