If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo and wondering how much dinner might set you back, here’s a calming, clear breakdown to help you budget with ease.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or treating yourself to a high-end experience, Tokyo offers delicious options for every wallet. Let’s look at the average cost of dinner by category 🍱🍜🍣
🍙 1. Convenience Store Meals: ¥300–¥800 ($2–$6)
Yes — dinner from a 7-Eleven can be surprisingly good.
Think onigiri (rice balls), bento boxes, yakisoba, or curry rice. Perfect for a quiet night in or a late arrival when everything else is closed.
Tip: Lawson and FamilyMart also have fresh, tasty meals and even limited-edition local flavors.
🍜 2. Ramen or Quick Noodle Shops: ¥700–¥1,200 ($5–$8)
Slurping ramen at a counter feels like part of the Tokyo experience.
This price usually includes a full bowl with toppings. Udon and soba shops are in the same range — hearty, cozy, and quick.
Tip: Use the vending machine outside to order — it’s fun and stress-free once you get the hang of it.
🍛 3. Chain Restaurants & Casual Japanese: ¥1,000–¥2,000 ($7–$14)
Places like CoCo Ichibanya (curry), Matsuya (beef bowls), and Ootoya (set meals) offer sit-down service and filling portions.
You’ll often get rice, miso soup, a protein, and some pickles — a lovely balance.
Tip: Look for “teishoku” on the menu — it means set meal.
🍣 4. Sushi (Casual): ¥1,200–¥3,000 ($8–$20)
At kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi), prices vary by plate color. It’s a playful, budget-friendly way to try a variety.
Mid-range sushi bars (no belt) start around ¥2,000 for a solid dinner set.
Tip: Try a lunch set for even better deals — many high-end places offer discounted menus during the day.
🍷 5. Izakaya (Japanese Gastropubs): ¥2,000–¥5,000 ($14–$35)
These cozy spots serve small shareable plates with drinks. Think grilled skewers, sashimi, fried tofu, edamame.
Great for groups or a lively night out. But costs can rise quickly depending on how much you order (and drink).
Tip: Many have all-you-can-drink (nomihodai) deals for a set time limit.
🍱 6. Department Store Food Floors: ¥800–¥2,000 ($6–$14)
Called depachika, these basement-level markets are dreamy. You’ll find beautifully packed meals, artisanal snacks, and hot dishes to take away.
Tip: Visit just before closing time for discounts on bento and sushi.
🍽️ 7. Mid-Range Restaurants: ¥3,000–¥6,000 ($21–$42)
Think Italian-Japanese fusion, seasonal tempura, or grilled eel over rice.
Great for a calm, sit-down evening with beautiful presentation and thoughtful service.
Tip: Reservations are helpful — and sometimes essential, especially in smaller spots.
🎎 8. Fine Dining: ¥10,000+ ($70+)
Michelin-starred sushi counters, omakase experiences, or kaiseki (traditional multi-course meals) fall here.
Expect a serene, slow evening of craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients.
Tip: Many top restaurants require reservations weeks or months in advance. Some only take bookings through hotel concierges.
🌸 Final Thought
In Tokyo, dinner can cost $3 or $300 — and both ends of the spectrum can be deeply satisfying.
Let your curiosity (and appetite) guide you, and don’t be afraid to try something new, even if it’s from a convenience store.
Sometimes, the simplest meals leave the warmest memories.
