Choushiya

Step up to the counter, pick your freshly fried cutlet, and choose between an oblong koppepan bun or sliced sandwich bread. At Choushiya, located in an alleyway in Ginza 3-chome, this straightforward choice forms the heart of its takeout appeal. For generations, locals and office workers have gravitated toward the humble, paper-wrapped sandwiches filled with retro deli staples, led by the signature potato croquette alongside crisp ham cutlets and juicy minced meat menchi.

The signature potato croquette features a light, crisp crust wrapped around gently sweet, steaming potatoes with a soft, fluffy texture. Tucked inside a faintly sweet koppepan bun with a splash of house-blended sauce and sharp Japanese mustard, it makes for an unfussy, satisfying midday meal. For those seeking extra substance, double orders are readily available, whether doubling down on croquettes or combining a croquette with a menchi cutlet. The ham cutlet sandwich, layered with two slices of savory ham inside soft white sandwich bread, also commands a devoted following.

You can also skip the bread entirely and pick up croquettes or cutlets as standalone fried deli items to serve at home. Bottled Choushi sauce is available for purchase straight from the shop front, allowing home cooks to recreate the shop's signature seasoning when reheating their favorites.

The shop operates only on weekdays from Tuesday to Friday, dividing its service into two shifts: 11:00 to 14:00 and 16:00 to 18:00. It is strictly a takeout operation with no dine-in seats, and payments are accepted in cash only. Because koppepan buns and popular fried items can sell out shortly after noon, arriving during the morning hours provides the best chance of securing your preferred order.