Things to know :
- Tipping is not required.
- If serving staff leave bill on your table, bring it and pay at cashier after meal.
- Tap water is safe to drink, and mostly served for free at dining outlets.
- It’s not common to take home leftover food from restaurants, unless you order take-away menu.
Takeaway Meals
Note: 10% tax (normal consumption tax) is imposed for in-store dining, while 8% for take-away food (except alcohol). You’ll be asked to claim at cashier, or some dining outlets just offer single price to avoid confusion.
Convenience Stores / Supermarkets:
Convenience stores e.g. 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, or supermarkets e.g. Aeon, Tokyu Store, LIFE etc., offers inexpensive ready-to-eat meals.
[Average price] Onigiri (rice ball) : 120 – 250yen / Sandwich : 250 – 400yen / Side dishes : 200 – 300 yen / Bento : 400 – 600yen
Department Store:
Deli corner in department stores, normally located on basement floor, sells wide range of food that are freshly made and better quality but less expensive compared with eating out.
Dining Out
Fast food / Cafe
The world-wide fast food chains e.g. McD and KFC can be found throughout the country, or you can try Japanese fast food such as Beef Bowl, Noodles (Ramen/Soba/Udon) .
[Average price] Set meal (McD Big Mac Set) : 710yen, Ramen : 700yen, Udon : 620yen
Casual Restaurants
Family restaurants, or “Fami-Res”, are casual & affordable restaurants. Popular chains are Saizeriya, Denny’s, Gust etc. Menu includes both Western and Japanese dishes.
[Average price ] Set meals : 800 – 1,500yen, Side dish / A la carte : 300 – 500yen