Ueno’s Best Budget Dining Guide

Welcome to Ueno and Okachimachi’s treasure trove of affordable dining. Here, you’ll discover exceptional restaurants where ¥1,500 or less brings you dishes that rival more expensive establishments. From a butcher shop serving premium cuts at unbelievable prices to a French bistro offering gourmet lunches at a fraction of their dinner costs, these local favorites prove that great food doesn’t have to break the bank. Each restaurant has earned its reputation through years of serving quality meals at prices that keep locals coming back for more.

Niku no Oyama肉の大山

A butcher shop turned restaurant offering incredible value meat dishes. Their signature steak set (¥1,040), hamburger with shrimp set (¥980), and legendary minced meat cutlet set (¥880) are considered some of Tokyo’s best. Every 29th, they offer special ¥290 deals on steak, hamburger, curry, and wine. Both lunch and dinner maintain the same reasonable prices, making it one of Tokyo’s best value dining spots.

Yoshiike Food Court吉池食堂

Located atop a UNIQLO flagship store with a premium fish market, this food court is famous for its Hokkai-meshi lunch (¥1,400). This generous bowl features an abundance of seafood including ikura, salmon, crab, and scallops. The building itself is a landmark with international staff and a first-floor fresh fish market frequented by professional chefs.

L’ambiance douceラビアンスドゥース

An elegant French bistro specializing in pork dishes. Their lunch service (around ¥1,500) offers exceptional value compared to dinner prices (¥5,000+). Each lunch comes with a generous salad plate. Note: Formal dress code applies; no sandals or activewear permitted.

Curry Delhiカレーデリー

A legendary curry house established in 1956, known for adapting Indian curry to Japanese tastes. Popular dishes include Kashmir Curry and Korma Curry (¥1,200-1,500). While lunch hours see long queues, dinner time often offers easier seating with the same great prices.

Tonkatsu Yamabeとんかつ山家

A popular tonkatsu restaurant among both locals and tourists, offering exceptional value. Their standard pork cutlet set is just ¥850, while the premium loin cutlet set is ¥1,200. Despite the modest prices, the quality is outstanding with perfectly crispy breading and juicy, flavorful meat.

Ready to explore more upscale dining options? Check out our guide to Premium Value Dining in Ueno: Quality Restaurants ¥2,000-¥5,000

More Guides for You:

All-You-Can-Eat & Drink in Ueno

Ueno’s Culinary Treasures: High-End Dining at Moderate Prices