Lunch Break: A Match made in Heaven
Sampling dishes and diners in and around Miami County
There seems to be no better pairing for a chilly and rainy day than miso soup. Especially when just a few days before, it was 60 degrees. I’ve been longing for springtime since our furry friend in Punxsutawney betrayed us. I will say that nothing beats hot soup and relaxing vibes during the annual spout of Ohio pre-spring weather. The newest place I’ve found that scratches the miso itch is Akashi Sushi Bar.
If you’re traveling north on your lunch break, then I still recommend a stop at Megumi Sushi Bar. However, if you’re closer to the Dayton area, Akashi is a must-visit. From the outside, the sushi bar squeezed between a Taco Bell and a gas station may seem a little out of the blue. However, you’re missing out if you don’t give it a chance. Upon entrance, you’ll feel as though you just stepped into a restaurant scene set from a movie. The tables and decor match the Sushi Bar Theme, and the chill atmosphere is perfect for a lunchtime gossip session with your favorite coworker or best friend.
I, however, ventured into Akashi alone. I’m fighting off social anxiety one column at a time. I ordered hot tea, which came in the cutest ceramic cup, and I decided to take advantage of the lunchtime deals. I found myself ordering a Bento Box. The sushi Bento Box came with a beginning side of miso soup, which had soul-warming capabilities. I also enjoyed tempura, which is my new favorite type of fried food. These crispy potatoes were unsuspectingly sweet and tasted incredible both alone and when doused in soy sauce. The mini spring rolls had a perfectly crunchy exterior and flavorful pork inside. The noodles were cold (by design) and absolutely delicious without being too filling. To top it all off, the sushi was layered with a zing of wasabi in between the fish and rice. Each bite was incredible, and I wish there were lunch options like the Bento Box outside of Asian dining.
The beauty of the bento box is that it’s filling while giving you a variety of food to graze on. I think that this is the best way to enjoy lunch, without the regret of having too many french fries or a greasy burger. Both of which I still obviously enjoy. If you’re not sure what you’re craving on a rainy, windy, and perpetually cold day, but you know you want something hot, skip the glorified hospital food and noisy seating you might find at a chain like Panera. Instead, try a tasty bowl of Miso Soup and a Bento Box at Akashi Sushi Bar. You won’t be disappointed.