Bento

Nestled at 629 S Broadway in Portland, Tennessee, Bento stands as a cherished Japanese restaurant that has garnered a loyal following for its commitment to fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. Operating within the "Doctor Near Me" platform category, which emphasizes readily available local services and goods, Bento offers a unique culinary remedy for those seeking high-quality Japanese fare in the community.

One of the most striking aspects of Bento, as highlighted by recent customer reviews, is its significantly updated interior. A customer noted, "I was amazed they had completely redone the inside while keeping the best sushi, the freshest seafood, and the same prices." This suggests a commitment to enhancing the dining experience without compromising on value. While specific details about the new decor are not extensively described, the emphasis on a "redone" interior implies a modern, clean, and inviting atmosphere. Japanese restaurants often favor minimalist designs, natural wood accents, and subtle lighting to create a serene and authentic dining space. The positive customer feedback regarding the renovation suggests that Bento has successfully created an environment that is both visually appealing and comfortable, making it a pleasant place for diners to enjoy their meals. This upgrade helps to elevate the overall experience, moving beyond just the food to encompass a holistic dining journey.

Bento is dedicated to providing convenient access to its Japanese cuisine, offering multiple service options to cater to its diverse customer base. The primary service is dine-in, allowing patrons to experience the refreshed ambiance and enjoy their meals freshly prepared. For those who prefer to enjoy their food elsewhere, takeout is a popular and well-utilized option. Many customers choose to call ahead for their orders, and Bento can be reached directly at (615) 325-8988 or +1 615-325-8988. Beyond direct pickup, Bento extends its reach through various online delivery platforms, including Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Beyond Menu. This robust delivery service ensures that residents of Portland, TN, and surrounding areas can easily access Bento's delicious offerings from the comfort of their homes or offices. The flexibility in ordering methods underscores Bento's dedication to customer convenience.

Bento's menu is a testament to its commitment to authentic Japanese flavors and fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is particularly praised for its diverse selection and the exceptional taste of its dishes. Key features of their culinary offerings include:

• Sushi and Sashimi: Central to Bento's appeal is its sushi. Customers consistently rave about the "best sushi" and "freshest seafood." The menu likely includes a variety of classic and specialty rolls, with fresh sashimi also being a highlight. The commitment to fresh ingredients is a recurring theme in reviews, indicating that the quality of their raw fish is a significant draw.

• Hibachi: Bento offers a comprehensive hibachi menu, typically served with fried rice and a selection of vegetables like sweet carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, and onions. Popular hibachi options include:

  • Hibachi Chicken

  • Hibachi Steak (including fillet)

  • Hibachi Shrimp (both regular and jumbo)

  • Hibachi Salmon, Tuna, and White Fish

  • Hibachi Scallops

  • Various combinations such as Chicken and Steak, Chicken and Shrimp, Steak and Shrimp, and Shrimp and Scallops.

  These hibachi dishes are designed to be flavorful and satisfying, making them a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.

• Japanese Fried Rice (Yakimesi): A staple in Japanese American cuisine, Bento offers various fried rice options, including Chicken Yakimesi, Shrimp Yakimesi, Steak Yakimesi, and a Combo Yakimesi that combines multiple proteins. This is often praised as a flavorful side or a standalone dish.

• Kitchen Appetizers: To start the meal, Bento provides a selection of appetizers such as Crab Rangoon, Chicken Sticks, Shrimp Tempura, Edamame, Vegetable Tempura, Japanese Spring Rolls, Crab Egg Rolls, Shrimp Egg Rolls, and Fried Chicken Wings. These provide diverse options for different palates.

• Specialty Dishes: Customers have specifically lauded dishes like Chicken Katsu (a breaded and fried chicken cutlet) and Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles). One reviewer particularly praised the Eel Roll and the provision of "extra eel sauce" upon request, highlighting the restaurant's attentiveness to customer preferences and the quality of their sauces.

• Homemade Sauces: A standout feature mentioned by a customer is the "homemade sauce," specifically yumyum sauce and oyster sauce, described as "amazing" and "incredible," surpassing any they had tasted before. This attention to detail in their sauces further elevates the dining experience.

Bento is recognized for offering excellent value for its quality. The customer who noted the redone interior also highlighted that the prices remained the same despite the significant improvements, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to affordability. While specific, ongoing promotional offers are not consistently advertised across all online platforms, the pricing structure for their menu items is generally considered competitive. For instance, lunch hibachi entrees offer a more economical option for midday dining. The availability on multiple delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash means that customers can often benefit from platform-specific discounts or loyalty programs. For example, some delivery services might offer free delivery or discounts for first-time orders. Bento's continuous positive feedback, emphasizing "great food" and "great service," indicates that the restaurant relies on the quality of its offerings and customer satisfaction as its primary form of promotion, encouraging repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.

In summary, Bento in Portland, TN, is more than just a Japanese restaurant; it's a culinary destination that prioritizes fresh ingredients, a welcoming atmosphere, and diverse, flavorful dishes. Its recent renovations and consistent positive reviews solidify its standing as a must-try for anyone in the area seeking an authentic and satisfying Japanese dining experience.

Bento

629 S Broadway, Portland, TN 37148, USA