Aesthetic bento boxes & a very leisurely FLF at Guzzu Bento-ya
For this week’s Fun Lunch Friday we ventured outside of our Culver City cocoon heading all the way to the Eastside. Like most things in LA, the thought of a cheeky lunch break in the Arts District was much more glamorous than the reality.
There was traffic, and waiting, and our quick break turned into a much lengthier meal, but nonetheless when Janice’s hairstylist said her brother had opened a chic bento spot it sounded right up our alley.
We arrived to find that couldn’t have been more accurate - it was, in fact, right up an alley.
Is this a quick, walkable lunch spot? Probably not. But what it lacks in convenience, it makes up for in straight vibes. Skip the grab & go lunch and take a break at Guzzu Bento-ya.
With walls covered in funky art, it’s own NFT’s, and a projector playing anime on a back wall there is something unequivocally cool about Guzzu.
What we ordered:
Guzzu Bento-ya’s concept is simple - you choose your protein, which is paired with rice and a miso cured egg yolk, as well as a rotation of their seasonal sides. They include everything from marinated mushrooms, to pickled daikon, to sweet potatoes, salads, and more.
SC Farms Miso Tonkatsu (pork): This panko-coated pork steak is lauded as their most popular offering, I mean who could complain? The exterior was delightfully crunchy, the steak juicy and tender, but the miso tonkatsu sauce was a little sweet for our palettes. Despite being the fan favorite, it was not the favorite of our group.
Saikyo Miso Honey Glazed Scottish Salmon: The salmon was a standout. Delightfully fatty and succulent, and served with a fresh and tangy herb oil that perfectly complimented the richness. This salmon felt richer than the fried pork (and with much better macros.)
Jidori Chicken Karaage: The Japanese-style fried chicken can be ordered mild or spicy, so we obviously opted to bring the heat. Ginger/garlic marinated, audibly crispy, and served with yuzu kosho mayo, this was a winner.
Overall, thesebento boxes felt like the perfect size for lunch. We left full and happy, but not stuffed and slow. If you can spare the time, take a drive to the industrial side for Guzzu.
Cost: $25 pp for one bento + drink
the warehouse district where a cute cheap girl would probably not feel safe alone, so bring a friend
