Tokyo is known for its world-class dining, but you don’t need a Michelin-star budget to eat well in this foodie paradise. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a family trip, Tokyo offers a wide range of delicious meals for less than ¥1000 (around USD 6-7). Here’s your guide to the best cheap eats in Tokyo for 2025.
🍜 Ramen Under ¥1000
- Ichiran Ramen (Mini Bowl Option) – Famous for its solo booths and tonkotsu broth. Try the half-size bowl for under ¥1000.
- Afuri Ramen – Yuzu-scented salt ramen offers a refreshing twist. Lunch sets are available within budget.
- Hanada Ramen (Akihabara) – Rich miso ramen with thick noodles. Regular bowl is usually ¥910.
Extensive Reading: Top 20 Ramen Shops in Tokyo for 2025: Must-Visit
🍛 Curry Rice Steals
- CoCo Ichibanya – Customizable portions. Small-size curry + toppings easily under ¥1000.
- Go! Go! Curry – Kanazawa-style thick curry with katsu. Many lunch combos are just around ¥800.
🏫 Convenience Store Delights
- 7-Eleven Bento Sets – Bento boxes, salad, and a drink for less than ¥500.
- Lawson Fried Chicken + Onigiri – Pair with miso soup or sandwich for a full meal.
- FamilyMart Snack Box – Fried items, sushi rolls, or pasta packs – all budget-friendly and tasty.
🍤 Tempura & Udon
- Tendon Tenya – Tempura rice bowl with sauce. Classic tendon is around ¥580.
- Hanamaru Udon – Kake udon (plain broth) starts from just ¥290. Add toppings within budget.
🍣 Affordable Sushi
- Uobei (Shibuya) – Sushi train with touch screen ordering. Plates from ¥110.
- Kura Sushi – Conveyor belt sushi with seasonal sets. 5 plates = ¥550 total.
Extensive Reading: 2025 Best Conveyor Belt Sushi: 15 Must-Try Sushi Train in Tokyo
🍲 Donburi (Rice Bowls)
- Yoshinoya – Classic gyudon (beef bowl) starts at ¥470.
- Sukiya – Offers curry rice, gyudon, and cheese topping bowls under ¥600.
- Matsuya – Gyumeshi (beef rice) and miso soup combo under ¥500.
🍟 Street Snacks & Hidden Gems
- Ueno Gyoza Alley – Gyoza + beer combo specials for under ¥900.
- Tsukiji Outer Market Tamagoyaki – Sweet egg roll on a stick for ¥100.
- Yakitori at Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku) – Grilled chicken skewers ¥100-150 each.
- Ameya Yokocho Fried Snacks – Croquettes and katsu sticks under ¥200.
- Okonomiyaki Food Stall (Asakusa) – Mini savory pancakes for ¥400-600.
✨ Bonus Tips for Budget Foodies
- Eat at lunch hours: Many restaurants have cheaper lunch sets.
- Use Japanese food apps: Try Tabelog or Gurunavi to find deals and filter by price.
- Follow locals: Look for places with long lunch lines — they’re usually affordable and delicious.
📍 Final Thoughts
Delicious doesn’t have to be expensive in Tokyo. These 20 cheap eats under ¥1000 offer the full flavor of Japan without draining your wallet. Whether you’re slurping ramen or enjoying sushi trains, there’s something for every budget traveler in 2025.
Have a favorite Tokyo cheap eat? Share it in the comments below or tag us @NomNomJP on social media!
