West Coast Bento

Hello, fellow Oregonians! Are you searching for a reliable, delicious, and incredibly affordable Japanese meal tucked away in one of Portland's charming neighborhoods? It's time to uncover West Coast Bento, a true hidden gem in Northwest Portland that has earned a loyal following for its exceptional value and flavorful bento boxes. This article will take you on a journey to explore what makes this local spot a must-visit, from its unique approach to bento to the friendly face behind the counter.

In Portland's diverse culinary landscape, West Coast Bento stands out not just for its Japanese-inspired offerings but for its dedication to simplicity and quality, all at a price point that's hard to beat. While some initial experiences might vary, the consistent praise for its value and the kindness of its owner, Big Dan, paints a clear picture of a place cherished by the community. Join us as we delve into the details that make West Coast Bento a go-to spot for a satisfying and easy meal in NW Portland.

West Coast Bento is conveniently located at 2368 NW Thurman St a, Portland, OR 97210, USA. This address places it in the highly desirable Northwest Portland area, specifically near the bustling NW 23rd Avenue, which is renowned for its vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. NW Thurman Street itself offers a slightly more residential feel, making West Coast Bento a cozy and accessible neighborhood spot.

Its location in NW Portland means it's a fantastic option for residents throughout the city, particularly those living or working in neighborhoods like Nob Hill, Slabtown, and the Pearl District. While parking in NW Portland can sometimes be a challenge, metered street parking is generally available on Thurman Street and surrounding blocks. For those who prefer public transportation, the Portland Streetcar (NS Line) is within walking distance, and several TriMet bus lines serve the area, providing excellent access. This "cool little spot" offers a convenient stop for a quick, delicious lunch or dinner if you're in the area.

West Coast Bento specializes in providing quick, satisfying, and incredibly affordable Japanese-style bento boxes, with a focus on grilled skewers and classic flavors. The establishment is known for its streamlined menu, emphasizing quality and efficiency. Here's a look at their primary services and culinary offerings:

• Signature Obento Specials: Their core offering revolves around a selection of bento boxes, each priced at a remarkable $8. These typically include a main protein served over rice with a delicious sauce. Options often feature:
  • Yakiniku Bento: A skewer of teriyaki chicken with rice.
  • Yakitori Bento: A skewer of teriyaki beef with rice.
  • Maton Kushi Bento: A skewer of teriyaki lamb with rice.
  • Ebi Kushi Bento: A skewer of teriyaki shrimp with rice.
  • Yasai Kare Bento (Vegetarian): Curry sauce with red potatoes, carrots, onions, and broccoli with rice, offering a flavorful vegetarian option.
• Main Bento Boxes: (Note: Online menus show additional bento options at varying price points, which might be newer additions or from associated establishments under a similar name. The provided reviews specifically highlight the $8 value. Examples include Chicken Teriyaki Bento, Bulgogi Beef Bento, Salmon Teriyaki Bento, and Tofu Bento, often served with rice and vegetables.)
• "Lite Bento" Options: Smaller portions of popular bento items for a lighter meal, such as Veggie Lite Bento and Chicken Teriyaki Lite Bento.
• Noodle Dishes: Offerings such as Chicken Yakisoba Noodle, Spicy Yakisoba Noodle, Chicken U-Don Soup Noodle, and Tofu Udon Noodle, often with vegetables and various broths.
• Side Orders: Options like Char Su Bao (pork bun), Shumai (pork dumplings), Gyoza (potstickers), White Rice, Brown Rice, Vegetables, Kimchi, Seaweed Salad, and Octopus Salad.
• Drinks: Including Hawaiian Sun Fruit Drinks, Ice Coffee, Ice Tea, and Spring Water.
• Desserts: A selection of freshly baked cookies such as Chocolate Chip, Sugar, Peanut Butter, and more.
• Takeout Service: Primarily designed for quick and easy takeout, making it perfect for a fast lunch or dinner. Customers can call ahead to place orders.
• Limited Dine-In Seating: While small, there is some seating available for those who wish to eat on-site.
• Delivery Service: Available through popular third-party platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, offering convenient home delivery.

West Coast Bento has cultivated a dedicated following in Portland thanks to several distinctive features and consistent highlights. While some initial feedback might be mixed, the overwhelmingly positive sentiments revolve around its core strengths:

• Incredible Value: Consistently praised for its "incredible value" and being a "cheap but delicious no frills bento." The $8 price point for the Obento Specials is repeatedly highlighted as being "on point."
• Delicious and Consistent Food (for many): Despite its affordability, many customers find the food "incredibly delicious" and "consistently good." The teriyaki sauce is specifically called "great."
• Friendly Owner/Operator ("Big Dan"): The owner, affectionately known as "Big Dan" or "Dave" by customers, is a significant highlight. He is described as a "great dude," "always very kind," a "cool guy behind the counter," and "very friendly." This personal touch from a one-man operation fosters a strong connection with the local community.
• Hidden Gem Status: Many locals consider it a "true Hidden gem in the NW area," implying a sense of discovery and appreciation for its unassuming yet high-quality offerings.
• Quick and Simple Service: The food is described as "quick and simple," making it ideal for a fast lunch or dinner, especially for those on the go.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: One reviewer specifically noted that "the rice is cooked perfectly to eat with chopsticks," a crucial detail for bento boxes.
• Variety within Simplicity: While the menu is focused, the options like teriyaki chicken, beef, lamb, shrimp, and vegetarian curry provide enough variety to cater to different preferences within the bento concept.
• Nice Location and Cool Little Spot: Its placement in NW Portland is appreciated, offering a "cool little spot" with a good vibe.

It's important to also present a balanced view, as one review highlighted some areas for potential improvement:

• Dry Chicken / Large Chunks: One customer found the chicken to be "pretty dry" and "giant chunks," suggesting inconsistency in preparation for certain items.
• Lack of Veggies in Bento: The same reviewer felt that a "touch of veggies in the bento wouldn't hurt for $8," indicating a desire for more balanced meals.
• Majority Rice in Dish: This customer also noted that the "majority of the dish was rice," which, while offering value, might not suit everyone's preference for protein-to-rice ratio.

Despite these points from one specific experience, the overwhelming sentiment from many long-time customers suggests that West Coast Bento delivers on its promise of affordable, delicious, and convenient Japanese comfort food, largely due to "Big Dan's" dedication.

Given West Coast Bento's reputation for already offering "incredible value" with its $8 bento boxes, explicit promotions might be less frequent than at larger establishments. However, as an owner-operated local business, they might have informal specials or consistent pricing that acts as its own promotion. To inquire about any potential promotions or loyalty incentives, Oregon residents could consider:

• Asking "Big Dan" directly when visiting. He's known for being friendly, and he might offer insights into any daily specials or seasonal items.
• Checking their physical location for any posted daily specials or rotating menu items, as this is common for smaller, local eateries.
• While not explicitly mentioned, they might offer catering discounts for larger orders given their bento box format, which could be useful for local businesses or events.

The consistent affordability and generous portions are, in themselves, a significant and ongoing "special offer" for budget-conscious locals seeking quality Japanese food.

Ready to try Portland's hidden gem for delicious and affordable bento boxes?

Address: 2368 NW Thurman St a, Portland, OR 97210, USA

Phone: (503) 227-1779

You can use this phone number for inquiries or to place a takeout order, especially during busy lunch rushes. Their location in NW Portland makes them an accessible spot for your next Japanese food craving.

For Oregonians, particularly those in the Portland area, West Coast Bento stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished local dining option. Its location in the charming NW Thurman Street area provides a convenient and pleasant setting, making it easily accessible for a quick and satisfying meal, especially for those working or living in Northwest Portland, Nob Hill, or the Pearl District. The "nice location and a cool little spot" atmosphere adds to its neighborhood charm, inviting locals to discover a true culinary "hidden gem."

The primary reason West Coast Bento is so well-suited for locals is its unparalleled combination of incredible value and consistent quality (for most patrons). The "incredibly delicious" bento boxes, particularly at the "on point" price of $8 for their Obento Specials, make it an unbeatable option for an affordable yet filling meal. This focus on value without sacrificing flavor aligns perfectly with Portland's ethos of supporting local, high-quality, and accessible food. The "great sauce" and "perfectly cooked rice" further enhance the appeal for a satisfying Japanese comfort meal.

Beyond the food itself, the personal touch of "Big Dan," the owner-operator, is a significant draw. His reputation as a "great dude," "always very kind," and a "cool guy behind the counter" fosters a genuine connection with customers. In a city that values supporting small, dedicated businesses, West Coast Bento embodies this spirit. While one review noted potential dryness in chicken and a desire for more vegetables, the overwhelming majority of feedback celebrates the "incredible value" and consistent deliciousness, solidifying West Coast Bento as a reliable, friendly, and truly local favorite for a quick and satisfying Japanese bento experience.

West Coast Bento

2368 NW Thurman St a, Portland, OR 97210, USA