Bento is the Japanese art form of making a packaged lunch. They have taken a meal and turned it into an occasion, with beautifully designed lunchboxes and food that is so fun it resembles culinary art. Traditionally in Japan a bento consists of rice, fish, and seaweed. In recent years Americans have taken the concept of the bento lunch and run with it. New American Style bento lunchboxes have hit the market and kids all across the country are eating bentos at school. Gone are the days of boring brown paper bag lunches... here comes the bento!

Bentos come in all shapes and sizes and rarely look like the traditional lunchbox you may have grown up with. They may have compartments to maximize space, they may be oval shaped or shaped like the head of Hello Kitty, they may also be tiered and stackable. They can be made of plastic, ceramic, or even stainless steel.

Another common practice with bento is arranging the food inside them decoratively... perhaps shaping hard boiled eggs into fish or animals, making an octopus out of a hotdog or making faces with seaweed and colored rice.

You can have any type of meal you want in any bento you want... raw bentos, vegan bentos, gluten free bentos, sugar free bentos..you name it...you can make it. And what about Halloween bentos, Easter bentos, and Christmas bentos.... make your child's lunch hour and yours a fun one everyday! Bento lunches are for the young, old... anyone who wants to make meals more exciting.

Some great things about the art of bento:

• Makes lunch time fun!
• Encourages healthier eating.
• Bentos create less food waste.
• Makes using leftovers a snap!
• Makes co-workers and other students envious!

Hot Product: The Ultimate American Style Bento

The Laptop Lunchbox is my preferred lunchbox for kids. It is made of safe, non-leaching plastics and it is a durable lunchbox that can be used for many years. The compartments make it easy to pack delicious, nutritious lunches every day. It is easy to clean and easy to use. You can buy it with a matching carrying bag and water bottle too! This bento lunchbox is my top pick! Read my in depth review of the Laptop Lunchbox.

Also comes in Pink!! 

Hot Product: Zojirushi Mr. Bento

This is a bento for adults or older kids, like teens. It is actually a lunch "jar" that is unique and functional. It is made of stainless steel and has vacuum insulation. There are four inner bowls and a washable container that holds them. Included is a convenient carry strap for easy transport to school or work.

There is also a Ms. Bento that holds less food and has a more feminine look for the ladies.

Lunchbots Lunch Carriers

Lunchbot lunch carriers are made up of stainless steel and do not leach harmful chemicals that can be found in plastic containers. Lunchbots are child and eco-friendly accommodations that can be washed and reused. It is the ideal alternative for parents ensuring the safety of their kids from toxic chemical influences that can harm their health.  

To-Go Ware Two Tier Stainless Steel Lunch Box

Stainless, stylish & stackable! This 2-tier tiffin system that hails from India. It is reusable, lightweight, and has a lid that doubles as a plate. It's easy to carry and clean, but hard to live without. Great for both cold or hot food, and the planet, too. Fold down the handle to make it compact and easy to store. Perfect for work, school, picnics, or a night out (makes for a stylish doggy bag). One or two? Up to you! Read our article about Tiffin Lunch Boxes for more information.

Get the To Go Ware Sling Carrying Case here.

A Great Bento Option for Toddlers and Babies!

This bento set is perfect for very young kids. It has bowls in two sizes (with lids) a mug, utensils, and a bento box with secure lid. Free of BPA, PVC, phthalate lead, and melamine. It is very stylish, functional, and great for use at day cares, preschools, zoos, and other places you may need to bring food.

This set is made of stainless steel and covered in safe plastics. 

Read a review of this set here...

Vivo Square Bento Box

This is a very stylish square bento box for older kids and adults. It is comprised of three stackable trays so that food is compartmentalized and separate. One tray could hold a sandwich, one tray could hold cut veggies and dip, and another tray could have some beef and noodles left over from the previous night's dinner. It is great for meals on the move. Reusable, dish washer safe. Lively color combinations make picnics or an everyday lunch an event.

Also comes in an Oval Shape 

Light My Fire - Triangle Shaped Bento & Spork!!

Simple and Sweet: The Fit & Fresh Lunch on the Go