Japote

Tucked away in the underworld of the Scotia Tower’s food court, Japote is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it gem that punches far above its weight. With weekday lunch hours that seem designed to test your commitment, this family-run Japanese counter churns out steaming bowls of donburi and Japanese curry with assembly-line efficiency. The menu covers everything from tempura veggies to egg-smothered chicken, but the grilled eel bowl stands out if you’re feeling fancy. Prices hover in the dangerously cheap zone—grab a small portion if you’re watching your wallet and tack on a miso soup or croquette without breaking $10. Japote’s loyal following, from McGill students to nearby office workers, speaks for itself: it’s a cheap eat worth navigating the labyrinthine tunnels for.