Bento Ya: A Tasty Japanese Dining Spot
By Emily Patton
After exploring the rich Japanese culture at I Go Tokyo, it only made sense to continue the experience with a meal at Bento Ya, the newest restaurant on Frazier Avenue offering authentic Shikoku cuisine. This charming eatery is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with friends. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a minimalist, serene space that offers a reprieve from the bustling street. Sunlight pours through the large windows, illuminating the pale pine wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Despite its prominent sushi prep bar, the space feels open, allowing guests to witness the chefs working with fresh ingredients without overwhelming the room.
Bento Ya quickly became my go-to spot for weekend lunch breaks, especially after my first visit. I dined there during their opening week, and the staff’s enthusiasm was immediately apparent. They were friendly and eager to share their passion for great food with the community. Since then, I’ve often grabbed a premade sushi roll and a drink for a quick, satisfying meal. I can confidently say that Bento Ya offers the freshest premade sushi in town—every roll tastes like it was just made!
While I usually visited for lunch, I’d been looking forward to a sit-down dinner for some time. Since the restaurant closes from 2-5 p.m. on weekdays, I started daydreaming about a cozy weeknight dinner after work. When a few friends agreed to meet on a Thursday evening, my anticipation was finally satisfied—and we all left agreeing that we’d be thinking about those meals for a long time.
Upon entering, the first thing we noticed was the incredible aroma. The scent of sesame, green onion, and ginger filled the air, creating a tantalizing but not overpowering ambiance. Although the menu is simple—with six sushi options and six entrees—it still took us a while to decide what to order. Each dish is meticulously prepared, which makes the limited selection feel intentional and thoughtful. After some deliberation between rice and noodles, the staff were happy to accommodate my vegetarian substitution, making the experience even more enjoyable.
As we waited at a large wooden table, the gentle sounds of cooking, mixed with ambient music, made it easy to relax and catch up with friends. The soft lighting from lanterns, authentic woodblock prints, and Japanese coffee table books featuring abstract art and interior design added to the calming atmosphere. We were so engrossed in one of the design books that we barely noticed when our food arrived, served promptly and beautifully arranged.
The presentation was as impressive as the flavors. The vibrant greens of edamame and the delicate pinks of the fish made the dishes visually stunning. I ordered the bento box, which offered a delightful variety of textures and tastes. The standout elements were the perfectly cooked rice and the shredded tofu, which melted in my mouth. The entire meal was one to savor slowly, allowing me to play with the different flavors in each section of the bento. Surprisingly, the garden salad was one of the highlights. Its mix of chopped vegetables, lightly dressed, complemented the meal perfectly.
While I took my time, my friends devoured their dishes quickly. They described their fish sushi and poke bowl in one word: fresh.
It was hard to leave Bento Ya that evening. The comfortable ambiance encouraged us to linger, and we stayed long enough for one friend to order onigiri, eager to try more of the menu. I also had a great conversation with the chef about the recent night market hosted by Verre Noir, which added to the sense of community the restaurant fosters.
As we finally departed, we felt completely content. Our meals had been satisfying without being overly filling, leaving us energized and happy. We all agreed that the quality ingredients and lightness of the dishes made Bento Ya a healthier option compared to other Asian restaurants in Chattanooga. While I love the laid-back, peaceful vibe of the restaurant, I also hope it gains the popularity it deserves. Bento Ya is a true gem, and it should be packed with customers every night.