A Nutritionally Minded Approach to Japanese Bento
Published: February 20, 2026
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“Bento Inamori,” a specialty bento shop offering authentic, gluten-free meals made with carefully selected Japanese ingredients.
Filling, body-friendly bento meals with generous portions. Great value, with a wide variety to choose from.
Nutrition clearly matters to the couple who runs this place. They speak confidently about their ingredients, and you can see it in what they choose.
Most of the fish and meat is sourced in Japan, which is uncommon. Even the rice comes from Yamagata, a variety they selected specifically because it works well in a bento. Nothing feels random. Everything seems chosen with how the meal will be eaten in mind.
Hokkaido salmon and domestically sourced chicken, marinated in homemade salted rice malt.
What stood out to me was how nutritionally balanced it felt. The salmon provides healthy fats, the chicken brings lean protein, and nothing feels excessive. It is the kind of meal that supports your day rather than slowing you down.
Miso Soup
I found myself returning to the miso soup throughout the meal. It serves as a quiet anchor for the bento, keeping everything balanced. It also tasted noticeably different from the miso soup I am used to—lighter, more restrained, and less salty. It seems made to support the meal rather than stand alone, and that difference really stuck with me.
Ice pops and juices made with natural ingredients are also available.
They are a nice option if you want something light after your bento. The flavors feel straightforward and fruit-forward rather than overly sweet. It is an easy way to add a small, refreshing treat without changing the overall “eat well” vibe.
Mr. and Mrs. Okumura have also run a Japanese restaurant in New York, so communicating in English will not be a problem.
Overall, it feels like a strong bento option, especially if you care about nutrition. The focus on Japanese-sourced ingredients, gluten-free cooking, and balanced composition makes it easy to trust what you are eating. It is the kind of place you
come back to when you want something that feels both thoughtful and good for your body.
If you are interested in gluten-free or dairy-free options, it is definitely worth checking out!
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Grégoire Renais
・Nationality：France
・Hobbies：Hiking, Photography (Landscapes, Japanese cultural events)
※Information is based on January 2026. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
