In Japanese convenience stores, you can find bento boxes being sold everywhere. There are many varieties, but fried foods seem to be particularly common. Let’s take a look at some examples.
Japanese Convenience Store Bento Boxes Are Often Hearty!
Bento boxes typically include rice along with side dishes like meat or fish, and some even come with additional sides like kinpira gobo (sautéed burdock root).
In many cases, fried foods are the main feature, adding to the overall volume.
Here’s a common example:
These bento boxes are very filling, with a single meal containing around 600 to 900 kcal.
Eating one of these will likely make you feel quite full.
Mini Bento Boxes Are Also Available
Not all convenience store bento boxes are large and filling; mini-sized bento boxes are also sold.
For example:
This type of bento is perfect for when you’re just a little hungry.
Turning a Mini Bento into a Set Meal（TEISHOKU）
You can deliberately choose a mini bento and balance it out by purchasing a cup of salad and a cup of miso soup, creating your own “set meal（TEISHOKU）.”
Hot water for the miso soup is available at the convenience store, so you can easily prepare it there.
Some convenience stores even have tables and chairs, allowing you to eat inside the store. If you find one of these, it’s a good option to consider.
Not Just 7-Eleven
When you think of convenience stores, 7-Eleven might be the first that comes to mind, but Japan has other major chains as well, including FamilyMart and Lawson.
Similar products are sold at all these convenience stores, so if you come across a FamilyMart or Lawson, be sure to check them out.
comment