The Best Cheap Food in Tokyo: Your Ultimate Guide

Exploring Tokyo’s cuisine can be an adventure of its own, but it can be difficult to find affordable options that won’t break the bank. Luckily, Tokyo is home to a wealth of delicious and budget-friendly food options. From traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine, Tokyo has it all. Here’s a guide to the best cheap food in Tokyo that you don’t want to miss!

🍜 Ramen

Tokyo is famous for its ramen, and it’s not hard to find a delicious bowl for under 1000 yen. One of the best places to try is Ichiran, which has locations all over the city. The restaurant is known for its individual booths, where you can enjoy your ramen in peace. Other great options include Afuri Ramen and Menya Musashi.

🍣 Sushi

While sushi may not be the most budget-friendly food in Tokyo, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy it without breaking the bank. One of the best options is to head to the Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can find sushi at a fraction of the cost of other restaurants. Other affordable options include Kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) and sushi set meals at department store food halls.

🍛 Curry Rice

Curry rice is a Japanese staple, and it’s easy to find delicious options for under 1000 yen. Coco Ichibanya is a popular chain restaurant that offers a variety of curry dishes at affordable prices. Other great options include Curry House CoCo Ichibanya and Go! Go! Curry.

🍚 Donburi

Donburi, or rice bowls, are another great budget-friendly option in Tokyo. Yoshinoya is a popular chain restaurant that offers a variety of donburi dishes for under 500 yen. Other great options include Sukiya and Matsuya.

🍜 Udon

Udon is a type of thick wheat flour noodle that is a staple in Japanese cuisine. There are plenty of affordable udon restaurants in Tokyo, including Marugame Seimen and Hanamaru Udon. If you’re looking for a unique spin on udon, try Kakeudon, which is udon in a hot dashi broth topped with a raw egg.

🍢 Yakitori

Yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers, are a popular food option in Tokyo. Torikizoku is a chain restaurant that offers a variety of yakitori dishes for only 298 yen each. Other great options include Kushikatsu Tanaka and Fuku.

🍛 Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake that is popular in Japan. It’s a great budget-friendly option and can be found at many restaurants in Tokyo. Try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Kiji Okonomiyaki or the Osaka-style okonomiyaki at Chibo.

🍢 Takoyaki

Takoyaki is a popular street food in Tokyo that consists of small balls of batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onion. Gindaco and Takoyaki Wanaka are two great places to try this delicious snack.

🍜 Soba

Soba is another type of noodle that is popular in Japan. It’s made from buckwheat flour and can be served hot or cold. There are plenty of affordable soba restaurants in Tokyo, including Kyourakutei and Yabusoba.

🥟 Gyoza

Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are a popular food option in Tokyo. Harajuku Gyoza Ryo and Ushio Gyoza are two great places to try this delicious snack. Many Izakaya (Japanese pubs) also offer gyoza as a cheap and tasty appetizer.

🍩 Japanese Sweets

Japanese sweets, or Wagashi, are a unique and delicious way to end your meal. Try the famous mochi (rice cake) at Ichibangai or the traditional Japanese sweets at Toraya.

🍺 Beer and Izakaya

Izakaya are Japanese pubs that offer a variety of small dishes, perfect for sharing with friends. They also offer affordable drinks, including beer and sake. Two great Izakaya in Tokyo are Shinshu Osake Mura and Tsubame Grill.

🍜 Noodles at Convenience Stores

Convenience stores in Tokyo offer a variety of cheap and tasty food options, including noodles. Try the instant noodles at Lawson and Family Mart for a quick and easy meal on the go.

🍡 Street Food

Tokyo is home to a variety of street food stalls, offering everything from yakitori to takoyaki. Head to Ameyoko Market for a delicious and affordable street food experience.

What is the best time to visit Tokyo for food?

The best time to visit Tokyo for food is in the winter, as many dishes are seasonal and best enjoyed during the colder months. However, Tokyo’s food scene is always thriving, so you can enjoy delicious meals no matter what time of year you visit.

What is the average cost of a meal in Tokyo?

The average cost of a meal in Tokyo can vary depending on where you eat and what you order, but you can usually find budget-friendly options for under 1000 yen.

Is it easy to find vegetarian options in Tokyo?

While many traditional Japanese dishes contain meat or fish, there are plenty of vegetarian options available in Tokyo. Look for restaurants that specialize in tofu or vegetarian cuisine, or try the vegetarian options at sushi restaurants.

What should I try if I’m feeling adventurous?

If you’re feeling adventurous, try some of the more unique Japanese dishes, such as natto (fermented soybeans), fugu (blowfish), or basashi (horse meat).

Is tipping expected in Tokyo restaurants?

No, tipping is not expected in Tokyo restaurants. In fact, it is often considered rude to tip in Japan. Just pay your bill and say thank you!

What should I do before entering a Japanese restaurant?

Before entering a Japanese restaurant, be sure to remove your shoes and place them in the designated area. You may also be given a small towel to clean your hands before eating.

How do I order in a Japanese restaurant?

Many Japanese restaurants offer picture menus or have plastic food displays in the window, so you can point to what you want. If you’re not sure what to order, try asking the waiter for recommendations.

What is the best way to travel around Tokyo for food?

The best way to travel around Tokyo for food is by train or subway. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system that can take you to all the best food spots.

Do I need to speak Japanese to order food in Tokyo?

While it’s always helpful to know some basic Japanese phrases, many restaurants in Tokyo have English menus and staff who can speak some English.

What should I do if I have food allergies?

If you have food allergies, it’s important to let the restaurant staff know before ordering. Many restaurants in Tokyo are accommodating to food allergies and can make modifications to dishes if needed.

Is it safe to eat street food in Tokyo?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Tokyo. The city has strict food safety regulations, and vendors must adhere to these regulations in order to sell their food on the street.

What is the most popular Japanese drink to pair with food?

Beer is the most popular Japanese drink to pair with food, but sake is also a popular choice. Try a local beer or sake with your meal for a true Tokyo experience.

🎉 Conclusion

Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, with budget-friendly options to suit every taste. From ramen to sushi, yakitori to donburi, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not take a culinary adventure and explore all the delicious and affordable food that Tokyo has to offer?

Remember to always be respectful when dining in Tokyo, removing your shoes and thanking the staff for their service. And don’t forget to try some of the more unique Japanese dishes for a truly memorable experience. Bon appétit!

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or legal advice. Please consult a professional for any medical or legal concerns.