Bento: A Different Kind of Fast Food

When someone thinks of fast-food, burgers, pizza, fried chicken and sandwiches are a few choices that come to mind. How about something different, like sushi or chicken katsu? Japanese fast food restaurants are popping up here and there. For a refreshing—and maybe even healthier—alternative, they're a good option to explore.

is located in a small strip mall on the border between Redondo Beach and Torrance. It has a decent-sized dining area that was kept clean and stayed fairly busy during lunch.

Bento offers many meals, ranging from katsu to curry, salads, noodle bowls, and the ever-popular sushi, to its namesake, bento meals. These boxed meals are perfect for large appetites because they come with a small salad, a mix of tempura shrimp and vegetables, rice, a California roll, a dinner roll and a choice of one of more than 30 entrees available to order.

Not too hungry? The combo plate is made for smaller appetites and includes rice, California roll, a dinner roll and a choice of entrée. The meals offer generous portions with prices under $10, so it won’t break the bank.

It is not your average sushi bar, so do not expect a large a la carte menu. Quick service is key here, so it is best to go with the hot meals.

The many take-out orders ready to go were further proof that this place was good for a fast meal. The chicken curry combo was no exception. It was ready within several moments of placing the order.

The curry sauce was a Japanese style. Gone were the spicy and fragrant flavors of the Indian style curries; in their place was a mellower, lightly spiced and slightly sweet flavor. It mixed well with the chicken katsu and the bed of white rice it sat on.

The salad was nothing to write home about. It was just filler. The California rolls, although fresh, were just a side dish. It was clear that the chicken was the star.

Bento wins in the quick service and value department. While it won't replace the sushi bar, it is a good alternative for a quick lunch.