Never heard of bento? Well, if you’re not Japanese and haven’t frequented Asian restaurants, you have a pretty good excuse.
Bento is a lunch usually packaged in a compartmentalized box. The boxes are traditionally made of wood or metal but could also be plastic or cardboard. The typical bento lunch includes rice, vegetables and meat, arranged so the food’s natural colors are visually pleasing.
Kyaraben — essentially meaning “character bento” — is a highly artistic form of bento, where the food resembles characters. Rice balls shaped like panda bears is a common example. Kyaraben has recently caught on with American parents as a playful way to get their children to try new foods and hopefully enjoy eating. There are many local and national contests in Japan to determine the best kyaraben makers.
Want to try bento? A number of Omaha restaurants offer their mostly traditional takes on the Japanese classic. They include Hiro Sushi, Sakura Bana, Wave Bistro and Sushi Japan Yakiniku Boy.
— Dane Stickney
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