Japan's Secret Budget Meal Options: The Hidden Lunch Menu

Japan, renowned for its rich culture and history, is a frequent destination for tourists. But there's always that lurking question: **Is Japan expensive?** Especially, is the food costly? The answer? It can be, but it doesn't have to be.

A Common Misconception

When travellers think of budget meal options in Japan, many instantly think of McDonald's or a quick bowl of Ramen. But the real secret? **The weekday lunch set menus**. They're everywhere! Yet, they're often overlooked even though they're directly in front of our eyes.

The Hidden Gem: Lunch Set Menus

Available typically from Monday to Friday, these menus aren't limited to just Japanese cuisine. From Western-style dishes to the classics, walking down any street, you're bound to find signs boasting affordable lunch set prices, ranging from 850 Yen to 3000+ Yen. The options are vast: tempura, hamburg, steak, sushi, ramen, and even British style beef curry!

For instance, on one of my adventures, I discovered a steak lunch menu priced at just 1137 Yen, with an added drink set for 160 Yen, which came with a soup and rice. Another time I stumbled upon a delectable tempura set for 1870 Yen. These meals are not just budget-friendly; they're filling and delicious.

One highlight? The variety and the combo deals. For a mere 1100 Yen, you could get naan bread, tandoori chicken, and two types of curry. Another deal offers a hamburger steak, fried chicken, and fried fish meal for just 1000 Yen.

But remember, you'll typically only find these incredible deals during lunchtime. Most restaurants don't extend these offers into the evening.

Spotting the Deals

The trick is to always be observant. Don't forget to look up. Many restaurants are situated above street level. Signs indicating restaurants on various floors are your clues to potential culinary delights waiting to be explored.

The Experience

Besides the affordability, there's the experience. On my most recent outing, I opted for a stamina-boosting pork loin cutlet priced at 1380 Yen. Accompanied by a cold tea, the entire meal was a delightful experience, leaving both my taste buds and wallet satisfied.

Concluding Thoughts

If you've ever hesitated about visiting Japan due to budget concerns or if you're simply looking for a good meal without breaking the bank, remember the lunch set menus. They're a testament that you **can** eat on a budget in Japan.

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Stay positive, eat well, and until next time, be a happy Gaijin!

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