The cheapest bento at this Osaka shop is only 200 yen, but is it actually any good?

The cheapest bento at Sandaime Kacchan, an Osaka shop, is priced at just 200 yen, but the question remains: does it live up to its simple appearance? With busy schedules, low energy levels, or a recent kitchen disaster, many individuals resort to purchasing meals from nearby stores. For students, in particular, these ready-to-eat meals can be a lifesaver, and a low-priced option can be a true blessing.

Seiji Nakazawa, a Japanese-language reporter, has been a fan of takeout bento for a long time, but prices have skyrocketed since his younger days. Once, he could find simple, no-frills boxed lunches for as little as 300 yen, but now, the cheapest options at major chains start at over 500 yen. Upon hearing about a store selling a 200-yen bento, Seiji decided to visit Sandaime Kacchan, a budget-friendly bento shop located in the Kyobashi Chuo Shopping District, also known as Rib Street.

Upon entering the store, Seiji noticed various bento lined up, with prices increasing from left to right. He found the 200-yen bento at the far left, and it appeared to be a good deal, although the price mentioned was pre-tax. The other bento looked appetizing, with options such as pork fillet cutlet bento, grilled fish bento, and special hamburger steak bento.

Seiji ultimately chose the 200-yen bento, which consisted of rice with chinjao rosu (Japanese-style pepper steak made with pork and green peppers), macaroni salad, and pink pickled radish. While the bento's appearance seemed to match its low price, Seiji took a bite and was pleasantly surprised by its delicious taste. Despite its modest looks, the chinjao rosu contained meat and had a sweet and savory flavor with a spicy kick, far surpassing the 216 yen price tag.