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Cheap Japanese food

Getting a satisfying meal of Japanese food without spending too much is a relief.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Teriyaki House image 1
Teriyaki House image 2
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Asian fusion restaurant

Small mom-and-pop Asian fusion spot offers a cozy, family-like atmosphere with friendly owners and affordable prices. Seating is limited, creating an intimate dining experience in a clean, simple space. The menu features generous portions, especially in bento boxes packed with diverse items.

Small mom-and-pop spot serves hearty teriyaki bento boxes packed with a variety of goodies. The menu includes spicy chicken teriyaki and a bit of sushi, all at a filling price point.

Prices stay really cheap while the food remains tasty and satisfying. Great value shows up in every dish served.

People are saying

"I loved the teriyaki bento box, it was worth it."

"I thought the food was cheap and tasty."

"The Japanese food, especially the bento box, was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so early arrival is recommended for dine-in, especially for large groups.

2

There is no table service; order and pick up at the counter.

3

The restaurant can get very full just before noon.

02
Sushi Plus image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant offers an intimate setting with ample bar seating and a cozy atmosphere. The place feels welcoming and serves fresh, quality sushi at very affordable prices. It attracts those seeking quick, satisfying meals without long waits.

Freshness stands out with sushi and sashimi featuring well-marinated spicy tuna and a variety of fish like salmon and yellowtail. The garlic edamame and baked mussels add tasty variety to the menu, all served with friendly, attentive service.

Prices stay cheap across the menu. Bottled beer also comes at a low cost.

People are saying

"I love the fresh sushi here; it's the best I've ever had."

"I thought the sushi was cheap and unbeatable for the price."

"It's a small, intimate place with a lowkey atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but calling ahead can reduce wait time.

2

The restaurant can get busy, especially during peak hours.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

03
MJ Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers cozy casual atmosphere with outdoor seating next to a parking lot. The place stays relaxed and affordable, attracting locals looking for fresh sushi and quick service. Sushi presentation varies, but fresh sashimi and generous rolls stand out.

Sushi here is fresh and affordable, with rolls and nigiri made carefully. The sushi cake with salmon and orange sauce stands out, and the deluxe box offers great value. Service is excellent and the vibe is simple and low key.

Sushi comes out fresh and quickly at a cheap price for the area.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so flavorful."

"They made a special sushi cake for a birthday lunch."

"I found the sushi here to be cheap and fresh."

Good to know

1

MJ Sushi offers a decent variety of sashimi, including sake, hamachi, and tuna.

2

Pricing at MJ Sushi is very fair, especially for the area.

3

Parking in the plaza is easy; there's plenty of space available.

04
Hanano Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Modern, cozy space with booths and outdoor seating offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere ideal for conversations and date nights. Background music features throwback R&B songs that complement the relaxing vibe. Utensils and decor add a fashionable, cute touch to the clean, comfortable dining area.

Ramen features unique noodles and a spicy miso broth that stands out. Fried gyoza complements the menu, making it a reliable spot for authentic ramen dishes.

Ramen and sushi rolls come at a cheap price without skimping on taste or quality. Surprising affordability makes it a solid choice for budget-friendly meals.

People are saying

"The ramen here is really tasty and filling."

"The ramen here is so tasty and spicy."

"The ramen here is cheap and really good."

Good to know

1

The average meal cost is around $15 to $20 per person.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

05
Seasurf Fish Co image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with mostly outdoor seating and a laid-back vibe. Atmosphere is relaxing and cool, with enough noise to feel lively but still allow conversation. Features include a patio with heaters, a small indoor bar with TV, and quick table turnover.

Poke bowls stand out with options like spicy and classic versions. Sushi includes Tuna sushi and various rolls. Other dishes feature fish tacos and poke nachos.

Offers cheap oysters and decent wines by the glass or bottle at half the price of other spots. Meals with drinks can cost around $50 total.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best anywhere."

"You have to try the poke nachos; they're a must-visit."

"The fish tacos here are amazing and so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many items priced just a few dollars.

2

Enjoy $1 oysters and $3 battered fish tacos during happy hour on Tuesdays.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

06
Marugame Udon image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Udon noodle restaurant offers efficient casual setup with fresh udon and tempura prepared in front of diners. Atmosphere is cozy and clean but can be noisy with loud dance pop music during busy times. Outdoor seating includes patio heaters providing warmth while dining outside.

Udon dishes come with fresh, chewy noodles and flavorful broths, including a creamy, rich option. Tempura sides stay crispy and airy, letting you pick your favorites without greasiness.

Prices stay consistently cheap here. Food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I found the udon noodles to be fresh, chewy, and flavorful."

"The tempura is so crispy and airy."

"The Japanese food here, especially the udon, is fresh and perfectly chewy."

Good to know

1

The prices at Marugame Udon are very affordable, with meals under $10.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

There is a two-hour free parking lot on the nearby street.

07
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Asian restaurant

Small space with bright, clean interior and relaxing music creates a warm, casual atmosphere. The vibe is quiet and pleasant, making it feel cozy and inviting. The setting stands out for its Studio Ghibli-like ambiance and neat decor.

Ramen here features tonkotsu broth with well-prepared pork and a spicy miso option. Japanese curry dishes like chicken katsu curry and pork katsu curry offer rich, balanced flavors that stand out.

Prices range from $10 to $15, making meals very cheap compared to other spots. The place offers extra broth to go at no extra cost, adding value to takeout orders.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is delicious and affordable."

"The pork cutlet curry rice was delicious, with a savory and sweet gravy."

"They're so cheap with the broth, I always order extra."

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

08
Roll & Grill image 1
Japanese restaurant

Takeout-only Japanese spot with affordable prices and freshly made sushi and teriyaki dishes. Atmosphere feels like family cooking despite no indoor dining. Known for quick service and generous portions on popular items like chicken and beef bowls.

Sushi here offers amazing quality for the price with well-trained chefs working fast. The California roll comes in nice portions with wasabi and radish, while gyoza is soft and crispy. Miso soup is served hot and fresh.

Sushi comes out fast and stays cheap without losing quality. Options like the $2 California rolls offer quick, tasty bites that don't break the bank.

People are saying

"This Japanese food is so cheap and delicious!"

"The sushi here is really good and so affordable."

"I found the food here to be cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available all the time.

2

The restaurant is takeout only with no dine-in options.

3

Prices are very affordable, with bowls costing $6 and plates $7.

09
Yama Sushi Marketplace image 1

Tiny market packed with fresh sashimi and Japanese groceries creates a cozy, slightly cramped atmosphere. Customers often gather at lunchtime, adding to the lively energy. Unassuming exterior hides a well-organized space with a kitchen for made-to-order cuts and quality sake offerings.

Fresh sashimi stands out with meticulous cutting and well-priced sushi options. Pre-cut sashimi in the fridge makes grabbing sushi to go quick and easy.

Sushi platters require ordering a day ahead and come at cheap prices. Rolls and sushi offer freshness and size comparable to supermarket sushi but are bigger and better.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and reasonably priced."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it practically melts in your mouth."

"I found the sushi to be cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

Take a ticket first when ordering from the counter.

2

Yama Sushi Marketplace is not a restaurant but a market selling ready-made food.

3

Pre-order online or arrive early for the best selections.

10
WinCo Foods image 1
Supermarket

Enormous supermarket with wide aisles and extensive produce section creates an open, uncrowded shopping experience. Friendly atmosphere enhanced by artistic murals and absence of repetitive pop music. Offers 24-hour access, bulk food options, and convenient self-checkout, catering to diverse needs.

Fresh sushi stands out with its great taste and high quality. Plenty of options include deep fried chicken alongside the sushi.

Prices stay consistently cheap across most items, making food shopping very affordable. The store feels quiet and easy to browse while keeping costs low.

People are saying

"I found the prices at this grocery store to be unbeatable."

"This place is a great late night spot, open 24 hours."

"I found the food here to be really cheap and affordable."

Good to know

1

WinCo Foods is open 24 hours, making it convenient for late-night shopping.

2

The store accepts only cash or debit cards for payment.

3

WinCo Foods offers a wide variety of bulk foods at low prices.

11
Hungry Horse Drive-In image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Window-only ordering setup with no seating creates a straightforward, casual atmosphere. Food offers generous portions and affordable prices, attracting those seeking takeout convenience and flavorful teriyaki dishes. Cash or Zelle payments are required, and outdoor space allows pets to join.

Chicken teriyaki plates come with generous portions and are flavorful and cooked perfectly. The menu includes a variety of items like teriyaki bowls, egg rolls, and cream cheese wontons alongside burgers.

Food comes out quick and tastes good while staying cheap. Prices stay low without sacrificing flavor or speed.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

"The teriyaki chicken here is flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The food here is so good and cheap."

Good to know

1

Hungry Horse Drive-In is takeout only with no seating available.

2

The location is cash only; they do not accept credit cards.

3

Expect generous portion sizes for the price.

12
Go Go Japan Sushi & Bento image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers traditional decor with Japanese-stylized paintings that create a Tokyo storefront feel. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and warm to lively and energetic, sometimes affected by loud ventilator noise. Family-owned spot draws a crowd looking for fresh sushi and generous portions at reasonable prices.

Sushi rolls come in generous serving sizes with fresh sashimi and artistic presentation at the sushi bar. Lunch specials arrive in bento boxes featuring a variety of delicious items.

Prices stay amazingly cheap, especially during happy hour. The vibe matches what a cheap sushi restaurant should feel like, with fast service.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and sashimi, is amazing."

"The lunch specials bento boxes are delicious and well-priced."

"The Japanese food here, especially the bento boxes, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Cash payments include a free side dish with your order.

3

Lunch specials are available daily and offer great value.

13
Sushi Easy image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny sushi spot offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with cute decor and a pleasant playlist. The space feels intimate but not crowded, creating a relaxed vibe. Affordable prices pair with fresh, high-quality sushi for a great value experience.

Fresh, well made sushi stands out with high quality fish and a variety of cooked dishes. Complimentary miso soup and homemade cheesecake desserts add thoughtful touches.

Prices stay consistently cheap while offering basic sushi that beats grocery store quality. The value stands out given the quality received for the cost.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is fresh and delicious."

"I was stunned by how cheap everything was and the quality I received."

Good to know

1

Prices at Sushi Easy are very reasonable for the quality of sushi offered.

2

They offer good meal deals that provide great value.

3

Sushi Easy is known for its high-quality ingredients in every dish.

14
Teriyaki Tei image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen with a Japanese chef creates an engaging cooking experience. Atmosphere feels homey and remodeled for comfortable dining despite lacking air conditioning. Known for affordable prices, generous portions, and standout dishes like cold udon and chicken katsu.

Cold udon stands out with its al dente texture and crisp, tender bite. Chicken katsu and teriyaki feature juicy, crispy qualities without overly sweet sauce, prepared by a Japanese chef in an open kitchen.

Food prices stay low with spam musubi at 2 dollars per piece. Overall, meals come at a very cheap cost.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes great."

"Their Japanese food, especially the cold udon, is a must-try."

"The spam musubi is cheap and I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The prices at Teriyaki Tei are very affordable.

2

The portions at Teriyaki Tei are generous.

3

Parking is easy.

15
Tokyo Central Gardena image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers wide selection of authentic products and a mini food court with sushi conveyor belt. Environment feels like stepping into Japan, with clean, organized layout and outdoor dining area. Atmosphere is friendly but can overwhelm newcomers with its variety.

Fresh sashimi and quality meats stand out alongside a solid selection of sushi rolls. The food court offers tasty takoyaki with big, chewy octopus pieces and a variety of ramen options.

Grab-and-go poke and sushi offer freshness at low prices. Food options stay cheap and tasty throughout.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a great selection of Japanese food and ready-to-eat options."

"I found the fresh sushi and bento boxes to be delicious."

"I found the sushi and Asian foods here to be really cheap and fresh."

Good to know

1

Discounts on selected food items are available after 6pm.

2

Sushi is 20% off after 7pm.

3

EBT is accepted for purchases.

16
Galleria Market image 1
Korean grocery store

Spacious grocery store combines Korean and Japanese food selections with an on-site food court and French bakery. Atmosphere feels welcoming and clean despite some dated interior elements. Offers professional fish cleaning service and a variety of authentic Korean dishes.

Sushi grade fish and a wide variety of ramen packages fill the aisles. Sashimi, seaweed salads, soy sauce eggs, and chicken katsu stand out, along with bulk wasabi powder and pickled ginger.

Prices stay cheap across the market, especially for Korean BBQ ingredients that are both affordable and healthy. The food court also offers cheap options, making it easy to buy many items without spending much.

People are saying

"I found the market's produce and meats incredibly fresh and delicious."

"I loved the sashimi and seaweed salads here."

"I found the Korean BBQ ingredients here to be cheap and healthy."

Good to know

1

Galleria Market opens 7 days a week until late night.

2

There is ample free parking available for visitors.

3

The food court offers fast options for sit-down or takeout meals.

17
Robowok Mini Bowls - USC image 1

Robot chef cooks quickly in a clean space with disposable dishware and real dishes in use. Atmosphere feels convenient and affordable, attracting those seeking quick, healthy meals near campus. Seating offers a nice vibe, making it a solid spot for lunch with great prices and satisfying portions.

Teriyaki chicken stands out with its tender texture and sweet-savory balance. Meals often include simple sides like white rice and broccoli vegetables.

Prices stay extremely cheap here. Food quality matches the low cost well.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu has a perfect numbing spice and a great kick."

"I thought the prices were extremely cheap for the quality."

"The Japanese food here, especially the teriyaki chicken, is great."

Good to know

1

The prices at Robowok Mini Bowls - USC are very affordable.

2

The plaza has ample parking and is conveniently located near the school.

3

The robot chef cooks quickly, providing fast service.

18
Roll & Teriyaki image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers calm, cozy atmosphere with fresh sushi made in front of diners. Affordable prices attract budget-conscious guests seeking fast-casual meals with generous portions. Quiet dining area suits solo diners and small groups.

Fresh sushi features thick salmon cuts and baked salmon rolls priced around $10. Teriyaki dishes offer great flavor with chicken and beef options, paired with crispy tempura shrimp in crunch rolls and shrimp tempura sides.

Entire meals come at a very low price here, which is rare nowadays. Salads and the Roll & Teriyaki options also stay budget-friendly.

People are saying

"You can get a whole meal for under $10 here."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and affordable."

"You can get an entire meal here for so cheap."

Good to know

1

You can get a full meal for under $10.

2

There is no dine-in available for takeout orders.

3

They charge extra for dining in compared to takeout.

19
Manpuku image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with cozy seating and a long counter alongside a few small tables. Atmosphere feels homey and unpretentious with basic, clean decor. Known for affordable prices and generous portions, especially on bento boxes and chicken katsu plates.

Sushi here offers great value with prices around $16 for combos including tax and tip. The rolls are perfectly made and the nigiri comes in generous portions with excellent quality.

Prices stay insanely cheap with decent flavor throughout the menu. This spot offers some of the most affordable Japanese eat-in options in the area.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is a great cost-effective option."

Good to know

1

The chicken katsu curry costs $12.95, offering good value.

2

Expect reasonable portion sizes that satisfy most diners.

3

A sushi combo with tax and tip is about $16.

20
ICHIBAN BUFFET image 1
Buffet restaurant

Spacious buffet restaurant offers a hibachi grill and a banquet room for large groups. Lighting creates a cozy but somewhat dark atmosphere suited for families. Food variety includes seafood and sushi, with casual, comfortable seating.

Fresh sushi stands out with a good variety and quality, especially when eaten right away. The menu includes seafood like crab legs and stone crab, plus a mix of Japanese and Chinese dishes such as chicken wings, ribs, and stir fry options.

Food comes at a very low price here. The dishes are delicious and offer great value for how cheap they are.

People are saying

"The buffet had so many different types of food."

"The Japanese food buffet is a great deal with lots of variety."

"I found the food here to be delicious and cheap."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $21.39 per person for lunch, including a drink.

2

Dinner buffet is under $25 per person, including drink and dessert.

3

Expect long queues on Saturdays, especially for special occasions.

21
Hako image 1
Tonkatsu restaurant

Small restaurant with an industrial look and warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere that can get loud and crowded during peak times. Seating is comfortable and well arranged, supporting a buzzing energy. The vibe feels casual and self-serve, attracting a steady flow of diners.

Tonkatsu stands out with perfectly crispy and light breading and a tangy, sweet katsu sauce. The Hire-Katsu filet pork is tender and thinner, offering a rare quality pork option. Curry pairs well with the tonkatsu, and sides include rice, pickled veggies, miso soup, and cabbage salad.

Prices stay insanely cheap here. Some dishes like the tuna salad feel lazy and bland, with thin slices and little care.

People are saying

"The curry katsu here is insanely good."

"The Japanese food, especially the katsu, is crispy with a juicy center."

"The pork katsu here is crispy and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 15 to 40-minute wait during peak hours, particularly on Fridays.

3

Be cautious of peanuts in the sauce; call ahead for allergy accommodations.

22
H Mart San Francisco image 1
Korean grocery store

Brightly lit Korean grocery store with well organized and spacious layout features a mini food court offering quick eats and a bakery. The atmosphere is lively and sometimes overstimulating with loud Kpop music and the smell of roasting sweet potatoes. Crowds create a busy, chaotic vibe that feels authentic to Korean markets.

Fresh sashimi and sushi come with a wide selection of sushi grade fish made on premises. Prices run about half of other markets, with options like uni, hirame, and pre-prepared poke bowls available.

Cheap bento boxes and kimchi fried rice bowls stand out among the fresh prepared meals. Some items like kimchi and tteokbokki are affordable, but prices vary and not everything is cheap.

People are saying

"This grocery store has an amazing selection of Asian staples and produce."

"The food court here has a lot of delicious choices."

"I found the prepared meals and kimchi to be cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

H Mart offers a wide variety of Asian groceries, especially Korean products.

2

The supermarket is known for its high-quality fresh seafood and produce.

3

Parking is available, but it can get crowded during peak hours.

23
Red 99 Grill Bistro image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern Chinese restaurant with comfortable seating and tastefully modern decor creates an upscale yet cozy atmosphere. The space often feels lively and crowded, with typical noise levels for busy dining. A private room offers a quieter option within the bustling environment.

Complimentary miso soup, edamame, and jasmine tea come with meals, plus free rice refills. These touches add a refined feel to the dining experience.

Prices stay super cheap while dishes remain generous and feel like good quality. Wait times happen because the low cost draws a crowd, though the food itself is not very special.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and of good quality."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

"I found the food to be cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours, especially after 6:00 pm.

2

Expect a long wait during busy times, particularly on weekends.

3

The restaurant only accepts credit cards for bills over $50.

24
Tsukiyo sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers traditional Japanese seating with floor chairs and private tatami rooms that require removing shoes, creating a cozy and authentic atmosphere. The space feels inviting and personalized, with sections including sushi bar and washitsu rooms. Energy varies from relaxing to lively, accommodating solo diners and groups alike.

Sushi here stands out for its super fresh fish and great portions at a very reasonable price. The sushi dinner sets deliver excellent value with tasty, authentic flavors and friendly service.

Seafood comes at a quite cheap price here, especially given its high quality. The food feels affordable without cutting corners.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and generously portioned."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food here is incredible, way better than any sushi I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and the wait time is minimal even during busy hours.

2

Parking can be inconvenient, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant serves both sushi and pasta, which is unusual for a Japanese restaurant.

25
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel image 1

Hostel offers quiet dorms with spacious bunk beds and ample storage under each bed. Social areas host free activities and communal meals, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Rooftop terrace and central location near major attractions add to its appeal.

Free food includes ramen, eggs for breakfast, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Breakfast options stay simple with bread and basic items.

Offers cheap dorms and shared rooms, making it a solid choice for budget travelers. Prices stay low even in an expensive city, with accommodating options for exploring around.

People are saying

"The rooftop BBQ nights were the best part of my stay."

"This hostel was cheap and nice for exploring San Francisco."

"The Japanese Food here is lovely and makes you feel at home."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily events like BBQs and karaoke to foster social interaction.

2

Free tacos are served on Taco Tuesdays, adding to the hostel's community vibe.

3

Guests enjoy a free communal breakfast and coffee/tea each morning.

26
Piccadilly billiard image 1

Pool hall offers professional-quality tables and perfect lighting that create an intimate, clean, and well-maintained environment. The atmosphere stays chill and friendly, with laughter and free snacks like watermelon adding to the relaxed vibe. Fans at each table keep the space comfortable during play.

Ramen stands out as a signature dish here, served alongside a variety of drinks and coffee. Snacks and iced coffee complement the menu well.

Prices stay very cheap with plenty of free things included. Games and activities keep costs low, making the overall experience affordable.

People are saying

"I had a lot of fun playing billiards here."

"The owner is so sweet and welcoming, I felt taken care of."

"I thought the Japanese Food here was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The pool table hour price is $20.

2

Complimentary drinks like coffee, tea, and watermelon are offered.

3

There is sufficient parking available.

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