Featured Restaurant of the Week:

Bento Cafe (Blue), Gainesville, FL

Bento may be quick and cheap, but their food--a fusion of Asian cuisine, from sushi to curries and more--is absolutely delicious (almost addictive!)

When busy, the set-up is like that of Crispers and other similar restaurants; customers line up, order, and then sit down and wait for their food to arrive. How they know who to deliver the meal to is a top secret! They do not give you a number and then will not ask your name....

Despite the inexpensive price, the decor is hip. The tables are lit up, dance music plays in the background, and flat screen TVs playing Japanese animation (and the occasional football or basketball game) are found throughout.

The menu has plenty of variety. Sushi lovers can indulge at a very reasonable price (all of the rolls are $6.95 or less) and for those who are intimidated by raw fish, there are plenty of chicken and beef options to choose from. Beer, wine, sake, and bubble tea are all available in addition to the soda fountain. You have to make sure you ask them to get you a "to-go" lid for your drink....

Aside from the sushi, Bento's menu of entrees is generally available in either a "bowl" or "bento box" form. Customers choose an entree (for example, red curry chicken) and either order a large portion on top of a bowl of rice or a smaller portion served with ginger salad, lo mein noodles, some nice green beans, rice, and dessert (usually a small piece of cake). For good Asian food it's a steal at $7.95 per order. My recommendations: the chicken Teriyaki Chicken and the fried dumplings.

Bento Cafe (Blue)
3832 W Newberry Rd
Ste 1J
Gainesville, FL 32607
(352) 377-8686

www.bentocafesushi.com