As the Japanese Yen gets weaker, so does my will to book a spontaneous trip back to Japan. You can say I’m just like any regular Singaporean – I could go back to Tokyo every year! I primarily travel to find new food spots to recommend, so you bet I went on an adventure, this time for places to eat in Tokyo under S$10 (~¥1161).
Whether you’re a solo traveller or with friends, these budget-friendly spots are perfect for soaking in the culinary delights of Tokyo. Get ready to feast like royalty, this time with more spare cash to get a sweet treat afterwards. Save this ultimate guide to 10 places in Tokyo under S$10 (~¥1161)!
1. Menchirashi
I’ve fallen victim to visiting every TikTok-recommended place so of course, Menchirashi was not spared.
After going viral on TikTok for its unique Carbonara Udon ¥950 (~ S$8.61), I had to visit this trendy spot nestled between Harajuku and Shibuya to see what all the buzz was about. True to its reputation, Menchirashi is a hipster haven, drawing crowds eager to try their innovative dishes.
The carbonara udon lives up to its fame, offering a delightful fusion of creamy egg and savoury parmesan cheese, coated on perfectly chewy noodles. Fusion done right!
If you prefer sticking to something more traditional, try the Stewed Beef Tendons Kake Udon ¥950 (~ S$8.61). Each tender morsel of beef melted effortlessly, along with the rich notes that mingled with the comforting essence of the broth.
The hype is real, and so is the wait—expect to stand in line for over an hour. Fortunately, the staff keep things moving efficiently by taking orders while you’re in the queue. By the time you’re seated at the counter, your food arrives almost instantly.
Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 6 Chome−13−7 1F
+81 364279898
Daily: 11.30am – 9.30pm
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2. Yomoda Soba
In the heart of Ginza, amidst the sea of upscale restaurants, lies a hidden gem called Yomoda Soba. For those seeking a quick, affordable meal in one of Tokyo’s most expensive districts, Yomoda Soba is a delightful discovery. We stumbled upon this spot by chance, desperate for something cheap and fast, and it did not disappoint.
The quality of the food is exceptional for the price, making it a standout choice amidst Ginza’s pricier options. Bowls start from ¥530 (~S$4.56) and orders are placed at the vending machine before entering the eatery. Collect your coupons at the machine and present them to the kitchen staff inside, before taking your seat.
The atmosphere is casual and bustling, ideal for a quick refuel as you break from shopping. However, be mindful of peak hours, as this gem gets crowded quickly!
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
Website
3. Hanamaru Udon
Every time I’m back in Tokyo, I always pay a visit to Hanamaru Udon. A staple in Tokyo’s casual dining scene, this popular eatery is a go-to spot for locals and travellers alike. Hanamaru Udon offers an “eat and go” vibe, perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal without the fuss.
The experience is as enjoyable as the food itself. Patrons are invited to choose their udon noodle soup, before moving on to pick their tempura from a tempting selection of crispy delights, ranging from shrimp to vegetable varieties. Now this is my ideal meal, especially on a chilly Tokyo night!
A small bowl of Sweet Tofu Skin Udon Soup starts from ¥490 (S$4.22) while each tempura you pick starts from ¥130 (S$1.12). The more you order, the more it’ll cost, but I wouldn’t recommend more than 2 pieces of tempura per person as portions are generous.
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
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4. Hakata Furyu
Good ramen is arguably found in every street but trust me when I saw Hakata Furyu has secured a spot on my list of best ramen in Tokyo. It’s a hidden gem recommended by a local friend with incredible value and delicious offerings. And the best part? A hearty, satisfying bowl here costs less than S$10.
Known for its rich, creamy tonkotsu broth, the noodles are cooked to perfection, offering a delightful chew, and the chashu pork simply melts in your mouth. My top pick is the Garlic Oil Ramen, which includes a perfectly cooked ramen egg and is priced at just ¥1050 (~S$9.04).
In fact, a standard bowl will only set you back ¥750 (S$6.46) but do note that it does not come with many ingredients.
If you’re a solo diner exploring Tokyo, this spot is a must-visit. Enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen that will leave you wanting more, all for almost half the price of a typical bowl in Singapore.
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
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5. KURA Sushi
Now, what’s a trip to Japan without dining over some ‘revolving’ sushi?
Kura Sushi has taken Tokyo by storm, becoming a viral sensation on TikTok and a favourite among budget-conscious traveller. This conveyor belt sushi restaurant chain is not only affordable, with each plate typically priced around ¥140 (l~S$1.21), but also offers a unique and entertaining dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
Each time my travelling crew and I can’t decide on what to eat, we’d always look for the nearest KURA sushi. From fried snacks to ramen, sushi, sashimi, rice bowls and more, it’s easily in my top few places to eat in Tokyo under S$10.
One of the highlights of dining at Kura Sushi is the interactive game at every table. For every five plates you finish, you get a chance to win a free dish or other prizes! The online game can be accessed via the ordering tablet found on every table.
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
Website
6. Yakiniku Like
We all know Yakiniku Like but I’m telling you – dining at one in Japan totally hits different.
Publicly known as the ultimate spot for solo diners to indulge in a budget-friendly meal in Tokyo, the chain eatery specialises in DIY grilling, offering individual grills at each seat, making it perfect for those who prefer dining alone without interruptions.
The process is streamlined and introvert-friendly: you place your order via a tablet, ensuring minimal interaction with staff.
Prices at Yakiniku Like are impressively affordable, allowing you to enjoy a generous portion of high-quality meat without breaking the bank. The menu caters to various appetites, so you can customise your meal depending on how hungry you are. A basic set starts from as low as ¥580 (~S$5), cheaper than Singapore’s menu by over 50%!
The efficient setup means queues move quickly, but it also means you need to eat fast—this isn’t the place for a leisurely catch-up.
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
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7. Kameya
Tucked away in a famous alley Omoide Yokocho in Tokyo, Kameya is a hidden gem that offers a truly local and budget-friendly dining experience.
This tiny eatery (or should I say, food stand), with only 9 seats, is a classic eat-and-go spot that has garnered a loyal following for its cheap and delicious noodles.
Despite its modest size and the fact that it can feel a bit too close for comfort, Kameya is a must-visit for anyone craving a hearty bowl of hot soba. The star attraction here is the combination of perfectly cooked soba noodles, a rich broth, a luscious onsen egg, and a generous piece of crispy tempura. And it’s just ¥530 (~S$4.56)!
1 Chome-2-10 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
+81 333443820
Daily: Open 24 hours
Website
8. Shinpachi Shokudo
Shinpachi Shokudo is a hidden gem that promises a delightful breakfast experience, particularly for those who appreciate the nuances of Japanese cuisine. Renowned for its mastery of fish dishes, this quaint eatery transforms the simple act of eating into a celebration of flavours.
From succulent grilled mackerel to tender salmon, every bite is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality. A simple Sardine Set is a mere ¥570 (~S$4.91) while its most luxurious offering Whole Atka Mackerel sets you back just ¥1080 (~S$9.30). I mean… that’s equivalent to some cai fan plates these days (there, I said it)!
Here’s a tip: visit during breakfast hours and fuel up with a traditional Japanese meal. Do as the locals do!
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
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9. Rokurinsha
Rokurinsha, a beloved ramen shop in Tokyo, is a must-visit for foodies seeking hearty goodness without breaking the bank. Famous for its rich, thick tsukemen (dipping noodles), this spot delivers an unforgettable culinary experience with every bowl.
Starting from ¥950 (~ S$8.61), you can indulge in their signature dish, featuring perfectly cooked noodles paired with a deeply flavourful broth that’s simmered for hours. The generous portions and robust flavours make it an ideal spot for a satisfying meal.
After all, there are plenty of ramen shops around, so why not save a spot for tsukemen sometime?
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
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10. Ramen Takahashi
At first glance, Ramen Takahashi might seem like just another ramen shop, but don’t let its unassuming appearance fool you. This place serves some of the most exceptional and affordable ramen in Tokyo, making it a favourite among both tourists and locals.
The broth at Ramen Takahashi is a masterpiece—deeply flavorful and rich in umami. Their standout dish, the “YAKIAGO” Salty Ramen (¥950) (~S$8.18) features perfectly cooked chashu, tender bamboo shoots, and an optional soft-boiled egg for an additional ¥150 (~S$1.29) . And that still comes up to be less than S$10!
Ordering is a breeze with the vending machine outside, and there’s no need to worry about the language barrier, as the menu includes English translations. The combination of superb taste and affordability ensures you’ll get the best value for your money, proving that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
Website
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