Bento's is a small and modest Korean and Japanese restaurant on Yelverton Road, a step from Bournemouth town centre, the sort of place locals turn to for a quick, filling meal rather than a big evening out. Its size has not stopped it gathering a loyal following, and online reviews regularly single out the quality of the food, the generous portions and the quick, friendly service.
The food
Korean and Japanese comfort dishes share the menu: bibimbap, chicken katsu curry, spicy ramen, pork donburi and takoyaki are all regulars' favourites. Vegetarians are covered by a vegetable bibimbap, although anyone with particular dietary needs should confirm the current options directly, as with any small kitchen. The menu is short rather than sprawling, and the plates are simple and well made; this is a place that does a limited range of dishes properly.
Eating in or ordering out
The venue is compact and set up chiefly for takeaway, and for anyone who would rather eat at home it also takes orders through Uber Eats and Deliveroo. A little seating is available inside, but there are no reservations, so it works for a casual drop-in rather than a meal booked in advance. At around £10 to £20 a head it is an affordable option for the town centre.
Good to know
Typical opening has been Monday to Saturday, 11:30am to 8pm, with Sundays closed, although hours should always be double-checked before you go. Bournemouth's main shopping streets and the seafront are an easy walk away, so it makes a convenient stop after a day in town.
Our food & drink guide has more places to eat nearby, and our things to do guide shows what else is close at hand.