I'm just as mystified as you are, abmj-jr.

I think our food radar works on a different frequency to these guys.

Rather than London (which is infamous for variable quality and high prices) I'll make a direct comparison with Tokyo and Madrid (or Alicante): Food is the same price (often cheaper) in Japan, portions are around the same size (I've never been offered a meagre portion - only exception are a couple of soba places where my meal came in three differently flavoured servings - I was full by the end).

Taiwaned and kboo, have you been ordering 'meals' in kaiten sushi, izakaya or yakitori places...?

If anyone is truly concerned about portion sizes - try Ramen Jiro get the large portion (omori or dai) and if your stomach is still crying out for more, once you've finished the noodles you can ask for more (Kaedama) - you just need to make sure you have enough broth in your bowl at this point so they can add the extra ramen.
But be prepared for some very sour looks if you find you can't finish your portion.

You can have a similar (but just ever so slightly more refined) experience at Jangara Ramen, Akasaka.


Perhaps we need to start an "Affordable places in Tokyo where you can bust your guts and/or ruin your cholesterol level" thread...