BentoLicious
Ratings and reviews
Hours
| Monday | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
BentoLicious Reviews (0)
This place is a hidden gem! You might pass over it thinking it's just another take out spot in the back corner of a complex, but the food here is seriously good. I ordered the Ichiban Fried Chicken Brest Bento (#1), and opted for the Mapo Tofu, Eggplant, and Bok Choy sides. First of all, the chicken was a huge, juicy piece of meat, on top of a generous portion of rice. Such a good deal! The sides are what rally shined for me. THE EGGPLANT OMG. I might even ask to make all 3 of my sides just the eggplant next time lol. The eggplant was just soooo umami and so flavorful, and although I normally am not a bok choy fan, I did really like it here, and it balanced out the oils from the chicken well. The tofu was pretty standard, nothing special although still good. I appreciated the extra protein from the tofu, but I may try the marinated egg instead next time! They had run out of chicken when I ordered it but they were very clear to me that it would be just 5 more minutes and it's be out, and they filled up my sides and rang me up in the meantime. Overall they were very kind and helpful.
This is a great spot to get a very quick (in and out in less than 5 mins), very filling, and very affordable lunch bento in the spirit of the classic Taiwanese bentos. You choose a main from those available (you'll need to call in or look at the menu as these do change from time to time) and 3 sides. You absolutely do not need to feel uncomfortable if you don't speak Chinese - I walked in and pretended not to speak Chinese and got by fine using English and pointing at things. Don't feel intimidated. I got the fried chicken as my main, the cabbage for something fresh and crunchy, the marinated egg, and the tofu, which is sort of like mapo tofu but not really. Overall, the food quality was good. The fried chicken was perfectly seasoned, though unfortunately, they seal the bento shut and it steamed a bit on my way back to the hotel. Pro move would be to loosen the lid so the steam escapes - will do that next time. The cabbage was light, refreshing, and crunchy and the marinated egg was SO GOOD. The tofu was alright - I think I would skip that next time and try to the eggplant. Overall, there are so many different combinations, you could eat a totally new bento every day for months. In terms of price, it was about $16-17 all-in with tax. In today's economy, that is pretty decent for the amount of food you get, but if you've ever been to Taiwan, these boxes, albeit smaller, are between 50-100 NT (about $2-3 USD) so it's very expensive by those standards. A solid lunch option with food prepared fresh daily and the ability to configure it as you wish, but having a $16 takeaway lunch every day is a bit expensive, even by Bay Area standards.
I actually came here a number of years back (pre-COVID) and glad to see it's still around and doing well. Even on a Monday, people were bustling in to get their bento boxes. The staff speak Cantonese, but they understand Mandarin and English as well. Bentolicious has a selective menu with some seasonal specials. You pick a main entree, three side dishes, and rice. I opted for the basil chicken entree with the stir fried eggplant, steamed veggies, and fried pumpkin (seasonal). Portion sizes are generous. The basil chicken was mildly spicy and the stir fried eggplant and fried pumpkin were cooked to perfection. If you're looking for a place with good Chinese/Taiwanese/Hong Kong style (take your pick) food with quick and friendly service, and generous portion sizes, come check out Bentolicious!
The three of us had an afternoon walk at Shadow Cliffs and we decided to eat lunch beforehand. Always looking for new places to try, we Yelped and saw the positive reviews for here and pegged it for lunch. Located at the Gateway Square Shopping Center parking was not an issue. Arriving shortly after 11am, when it opened, there was one customer ordering. Looking at the menu board, they offer 7 Bento boxes where you first choose your main entrée of either Ichiban fried chicken, Basil chicken, Chiayi organic chicken, Railroad pork chop, Beef, Daily special or All veggies. After you choose your main, you select three sides from ten choices. Trying to decide on the entrée, the server recommended the Ichiban fried chicken as it was their most popular entrée. So I went with it and chose glass noodles, deep fried Kabocha and ma po tofu for my sides. The bento box is a good size with the two pounded flat chicken pieces deep fried crispy over a bed of white rice. The chicken was tasty and moist. The three sides were tasty, but I like the Kabocha the best. There were about four tables plus window counter seats, but we sat at one of the six tables outside. By 11:30, there was a consistent stream of customers coming in. Most appear to be workers taking their food back to their office. Service was friendly. A very good choice for Taiwanese bento boxes. So Bentolicous!
BentoLicious: A Culinary Journey in Pleasanton, CA
Located in the heart of Pleasanton at 4833 Hopyard Rd E3, BentoLicious offers a unique dining experience that blends the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. For those who seek a meal that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, BentoLicious is the place to be. This cozy spot has quickly become a local favorite, drawing in food lovers with its artistic presentation and delightful flavors.
The Art of Bento: More Than Just a Meal
At BentoLicious, the bento box is not just a meal; it's an art form. Each bento is meticulously crafted, ensuring a balance of flavors, colors, and textures. The essence of a great bento lies in its ability to offer a complete meal in one box, and BentoLicious masters this with finesse. Whether you're a fan of sushi, teriyaki, or tempura, there's something in every box to satisfy your cravings.
The bento tradition dates back centuries in Japan, where it began as a convenient way to carry food. However, at BentoLicious, this tradition has been elevated to a gourmet experience. Every ingredient is chosen with care, and the attention to detail is evident in every bite. From the perfectly cooked rice to the fresh, vibrant vegetables, and the tender, flavorful meats, each component complements the other, creating a harmonious dining experience.
A Feast for the Eyes: The Aesthetic Appeal of BentoLicious
Beyond the flavors, what truly sets BentoLicious apart is its commitment to visual appeal. Each bento box is a work of art, carefully arranged to delight the senses. The chefs at BentoLicious understand that we eat with our eyes first, and they take great care to ensure that every box is as beautiful as it is delicious.
The use of fresh, colorful ingredients not only enhances the visual appeal but also signals the quality and freshness of the food. The vibrant reds of the pickled ginger, the bright greens of the edamame, and the golden browns of the tempura create a palette that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. This attention to detail makes every meal at BentoLicious a memorable experience, whether you're dining in or taking out.
An Authentic Experience: Bringing Japanese Cuisine to Pleasanton
BentoLicious is more than just a restaurant; it's a cultural experience. The menu is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Japan, with each dish offering a taste of the country's diverse flavors. From the delicate sushi rolls to the hearty teriyaki bowls, every item on the menu is crafted with authenticity in mind.
One of the standout features of BentoLicious is its commitment to using high-quality, fresh ingredients. The seafood is sourced from trusted suppliers, ensuring that every sushi roll is made with the freshest fish available. The vegetables are crisp and vibrant, adding both flavor and nutrition to the meals. The meats are marinated and cooked to perfection, offering a rich and satisfying taste that keeps customers coming back for more.
For those new to Japanese cuisine, BentoLicious offers an approachable introduction, with familiar favorites like chicken teriyaki and California rolls. However, for the more adventurous eater, there are also traditional dishes that showcase the depth and variety of Japanese cooking. This balance of familiarity and authenticity makes BentoLicious a great choice for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts of Japanese cuisine.
BentoLicious: A Family-Friendly Dining Destination
BentoLicious isn't just for foodies; it's a place where families can come together to enjoy a meal that satisfies both adults and children alike. The diverse menu offers something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. Kids will love the fun, bite-sized portions in the bento boxes, while parents can appreciate the quality and variety of the food.
The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a modern design that still pays homage to traditional Japanese aesthetics. The seating is comfortable, and the staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every visit is a pleasant one. Whether you're stopping in for a quick lunch or sitting down for a leisurely dinner, BentoLicious provides an environment that is both relaxed and inviting.
For families on the go, BentoLicious also offers convenient take-out options. The bento boxes are perfect for enjoying at home, at the park, or wherever your day takes you. Each box is carefully packaged to maintain its freshness and visual appeal, so you can enjoy the BentoLicious experience no matter where you are.
The BentoLicious Difference: Quality, Care, and Commitment
What truly sets BentoLicious apart from other dining options in Pleasanton is its unwavering commitment to quality. Every aspect of the restaurant, from the ingredients to the presentation to the customer service, is handled with care and attention to detail. This dedication is evident in every meal, and it's what keeps customers coming back time and time again.
The chefs at BentoLicious bring years of experience and a deep passion for Japanese cuisine to their work. Their expertise shines through in every dish, whether it's a simple miso soup or a complex sushi roll. This level of skill and knowledge ensures that every meal at BentoLicious is a culinary experience worth savoring.
In addition to their commitment to quality, BentoLicious also places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. This focus on creating a positive dining experience is just one of the many reasons why BentoLicious has become a beloved part of the Pleasanton community.
Experience BentoLicious: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
If you're looking for a dining experience that combines the best of traditional Japanese cuisine with modern culinary techniques, look no further than BentoLicious. Located at 4833 Hopyard Rd E3 Pleasanton, CA 94588, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of flavors, textures, and visual appeal that is sure to delight both your taste buds and your eyes.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Japanese food or you're trying it for the first time, BentoLicious provides an experience that is both authentic and innovative. The carefully crafted bento boxes, the fresh ingredients, and the attention to detail all come together to create a meal that is as satisfying as it is beautiful.
In conclusion, BentoLicious is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Japanese culture and cuisine. With its commitment to quality, its focus on customer satisfaction, and its dedication to creating visually stunning and delicious meals, BentoLicious offers a dining experience that is truly one of a kind. So the next time you're in Pleasanton, make sure to stop by BentoLicious and discover the art of bento for yourself.
The bento box was really good! The pumpkin side was crispy, soft, and salted nicely. The Fried chicken breast is really good too with nice and light flavor. Would recommend buying a box of popcorn chicken too! Service was nice and I got in and out in less than five minutes. The interior has a cozy vibe.