Hajimete, Nihon!

Embarking on a culinary adventure through the streets of Tokyo, one can’t help but be captivated by the aroma of simmering broth and the sight of steaming bowls of ramen. As a fervent lover of this iconic Japanese dish, my journey led me to uncover hidden gems offering exceptional quality at wallet-friendly prices. Among my cherished finds, Sandaime Yattoko Rokutemma in Nakano stands out for its unforgettable flavors and warm ambiance. Join me as I unveil the top 15 cheap yet quality ramen spots in Tokyo, each promising an authentic gastronomic experience without breaking the bank.

1. Sandaime Yattoko Rokutemma (Nakano): Nestled in the neighborhood of Nakano, Sandaime Yattoko Rokutemma boasts a loyal following for its mouthwatering ramen. Their signature dish, the Tonkotsu Ramen, features rich, creamy broth infused with succulent slices of chashu pork and perfectly cooked noodles. Priced at around ¥800 to ¥1,000, this delectable bowl is a steal for its exceptional quality and generous portions.
2. Ramen Nagi (Shinjuku): Ramen Nagi in Shinjuku is renowned for its customizable ramen bowls, allowing patrons to tailor their dining experience according to their preferences. The Butao Ramen, characterized by its robust pork broth and tender pork belly, is a crowd-pleaser. With prices ranging from ¥800 to ¥1,200, Ramen Nagi offers excellent value for money without compromising on taste.
3. Afuri (Various Locations): With several branches scattered across Tokyo, Afuri is celebrated for its unique yuzu-infused ramen, adding a refreshing citrusy twist to the traditional dish. The Yuzu Shio Ramen, featuring a delicate broth and fragrant toppings, is a must-try. Prices typically range from ¥900 to ¥1,300, making Afuri a budget-friendly choice for ramen enthusiasts.
4. Ichiran (Various Locations): Ichiran’s no-frills approach to ramen has garnered a cult following among locals and tourists alike. Specializing in tonkotsu ramen, their signature Tonkotsu Original Ramen impresses with its creamy broth and customizable spice levels. Priced at around ¥800 to ¥1,200, Ichiran offers unbeatable value for its consistently delicious offerings.
5. Menya Musashi (Shinjuku): Situated in the heart of Shinjuku, Menya Musashi is renowned for its hearty and flavorful ramen bowls. The Musashi Ramen, featuring soy sauce broth and tender slices of pork, is a perennial favorite. With prices ranging from ¥800 to ¥1,200, this establishment remains a top choice for those craving satisfying ramen at affordable prices.
6. Mensho Tokyo (Various Locations): Mensho Tokyo distinguishes itself with its innovative approach to ramen, incorporating premium ingredients and unconventional flavor combinations. The Shoyu Ramen, featuring aged soy sauce and savory toppings, showcases their commitment to quality. Prices typically range from ¥1,000 to ¥1,500, reflecting the superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.
7. Kikanbo (Kanda): For those seeking a fiery kick, Kikanbo in Kanda offers tantalizingly spicy ramen guaranteed to satisfy adventurous palates. The Oni (Demon) Ramen, known for its intense heat and bold flavors, is not for the faint of heart. Priced at around ¥900 to ¥1,300, Kikanbo provides a thrilling culinary experience at an affordable price point.
8. Tsuta (Sugamo): Tsuta earned the distinction of being the world’s first Michelin-starred ramen restaurant, cementing its status as a culinary powerhouse. The Shoyu Soba, featuring truffle-infused broth and tender cha-shu pork, epitomizes sophistication. Prices range from ¥1,000 to ¥1,500, reflecting the exceptional quality synonymous with Tsuta.
9. Fuunji (Shinjuku): Located in the bustling district of Shinjuku, Fuunji is revered for its decadent tsukemen, a variation of ramen where noodles are served separately for dipping into a concentrated broth. The Tsukemen, characterized by its rich and savory broth, is a harmonious blend of flavors. Priced at around ¥800 to ¥1,200, Fuunji offers a memorable dining experience at an affordable price.
10. Konjiki Hototogisu (Various Locations): Konjiki Hototogisu stands out for its exquisite seafood-based ramen, showcasing the culinary prowess of Chef Atsushi Yamamoto. The Shio Ramen, featuring delicate flavors and premium toppings, is a testament to his dedication to perfection. Prices typically range from ¥1,000 to ¥1,500, making Konjiki Hototogisu a worthwhile indulgence for ramen aficionados.
11. Ginza Kagari (Ginza): Ginza Kagari captivates diners with its decadent chicken-based ramen, offering a lighter alternative to traditional pork-based broths. The Tori Paitan Ramen, characterized by its creamy texture and tender chicken, is a delightful departure from the norm. With prices ranging from ¥900 to ¥1,300, Ginza Kagari provides an affordable luxury for discerning palates.
12. Mouko Tanmen Nakamoto (Various Locations): Mouko Tanmen Nakamoto specializes in fiery tanmen, a spicy noodle soup originating from Sapporo. The Tantanmen, featuring bold flavors and ample heat, is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Priced at around ¥800 to ¥1,200, Mouko Tanmen Nakamoto offers exceptional value for its distinctive and satisfying offerings.
13. Menya Hanabi (Various Locations): Menya Hanabi entices patrons with its indulgent cheese ramen, marrying the creaminess of cheese with the savory goodness of ramen. The Cheese Ramen, featuring a decadent broth and generous cheese toppings, is a comforting treat for cheese lovers. With prices ranging from ¥900 to ¥1,300, Menya Hanabi offers a unique and irresistible culinary experience.
14. Ramen Jiro (Various Locations): Ramen Jiro is renowned for its hearty and unapologetically bold ramen bowls, characterized by their oversized portions and generous toppings. The Jiro Ramen, featuring a mountain of noodles and savory ingredients, is a testament to their commitment to indulgence. Priced at around ¥800 to ¥1,200, Ramen Jiro delivers unbeatable value for its satisfying offerings.
15. Nakiryu (Ikebukuro): Nakiryu captivates diners with its Michelin-starred tantanmen, offering a refined take on the classic Sichuan dish. The Nakiryu Tantanmen, featuring complex flavors and delicate balance, is a culinary masterpiece. With prices ranging from ¥1,000 to ¥1,500, Nakiryu offers an unparalleled dining experience that is both memorable and affordable.

Tokyo’s ramen scene is a testament to the city’s culinary prowess, offering a diverse array of flavors and experiences to suit every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving a classic tonkotsu ramen or eager to explore innovative twists on traditional recipes, these 15 cheap but quality ramen restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving for more. So grab your chopsticks and slurp away, because in Tokyo, the ramen adventure never ends!