Amazingly Affordable and Comforting Japanese Food
Published: July 3, 2024
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“Aji no Shigotoya Yubasei with Aco’s Ariga Tofu Ojima Store” always offers a variety of around 60 different side dishes, which are displayed throughout the store. Customers can fill their bento boxes with their preferred selections.
Small size: 480 yen (left), Large size: 680 yen (right)
These are one of the most affordable and healthy takeout lunches! The custom takeout bento boxes come in 2 sizes, but I recommend the larger size. According to the rules, you must put at least a bit of rice into your bento box, and you’re not allowed to layer side dishes on top of the rice. Finally, if the lid won’t properly close, you’ll have to pay an additional 100 yen.
There are two types of rice available: plain white rice and takikomi rice (rice seasoned and cooked with various ingredients).
While plain white rice pairs well with richly flavored dishes, I usually opt for healthier options like the hijiki (seaweed) and carrot takikomi rice of the day. Before filling up your bento box, be sure to put on a plastic glove on your dominant hand and use the spatula or tongs.
The wide variety of around 60 different side dishes is made with consideration for reducing food waste. These side dishes are available in a buffet-style selection. The most popular item is the karaage (fried chicken)!
At this shop, they acquire ingredients that are nearing their expiration date and quickly turn them into classic Japanese side dishes with the help of local volunteers. This concept is based on caring for the community and the spirit of giving, and I was very moved by it.
There is a bento box with 13 different side dishes for only 500 yen!
If you prefer, you can get the ready-made bento box with preselected side dishes or you can come into the shop and pick your own. Either way there’s a wide range of food inside each one!
The store manager, Ms. Aco also sells tofu from a handcart while blowing a trumpet.
She aims to make many people happy with her affordable bento boxes. Her unique personality is also reflected in her attire, characterized by colorful, bright, and bold patterns. I found her to be a unique and kind-hearted person.
“Aji no Shigotoya Yubasei with Aco’s Ariga Tofu Oojima Store” also operates as an izakaya (Japanese pub) in the evenings.
The food was extremely satisfying and comforting. My bento box included simmered pumpkin, cream croquette, fried chicken, simmered konyaku, eggplant in a sweet sauce and later as a side dish, yuba (thin, silky layers of tofu). The refreshing lemonade with jelly made in-house was also delicious and satisfying.
Please come here and try to craft your carefully selected bento box!
≪English Article Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Natalie
・Age：Thirties
・Nationality：Poland
・Hobbies：Sewing, DJ, Up cycling, Illustration
※Information is based on June 2024. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All prices mentioned in the article include tax.
