Residents in the Folsom Plan area south of Highway 50 now have another new dining option. Bento Box is the latest restaurant to open at The Shops at Folsom Ranch retail center.
The family-owned restaurant, a longtime favorite with several locations in Sacramento, includes a popular Midtown location and others in Fair Oaks, Loehmann’s Plaza, and near 65th Street in the heart of the city. The Folsom location marks the first expansion for the chain in 14 years, operated by brother-and-sister duo Phil and Bella Lee, making this opening particularly special.
Phil and Bella grew up in Folsom and have long dreamed of becoming part of the city’s business community. With the rapid growth of the Folsom Plan community, their dream is now a reality. Their newest restaurant, located at 3210 East Bidwell Street, joins other tenants at the center, including Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, Slice House, Folsom Ranch Vet, Starbucks, a nail salon, and an upcoming Chevron gas station.
“Folsom Ranch is developing really fast. We grew up here, and we always wanted to be in Folsom,” said Bella Lee. “It means a lot. It’s been 14 years, so we are very thankful for this opportunity, and we will continue to grow and expand.” The two may not be finished just yet when it comes to continuing to expand, they hope to open another location in then region in the future, possibly in Elk Grove or nearby.
Like its other locations, Bento Box in Folsom offers a fusion of Asian-inspired cuisine, with a focus on fresh sushi, poke bowls, and Japanese comfort foods. The menu caters to a wide range of tastes, blending traditional and contemporary options. Guests can enjoy creative sushi rolls like the Rainbow Roll and classic nigiri or opt for a hearty ramen bowl with flavorful broth.
The restaurant’s poke bowls are especially popular, offering customization for those seeking a healthy, personalized meal. Hot dishes like chicken katsu and beef teriyaki provide more indulgent options. Vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free choices ensure accessibility for all dietary needs. Whether diners are in the mood for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, Bento Box provides a modern, casual dining atmosphere.
The 4,500-square-foot Folsom location was a major undertaking for the siblings, who now manage the small group of eateries founded by their family. The new restaurant cost nearly $1 million to open, and the investment is evident. Its modern yet upscale décor features an open dining area with plenty of space, diners can choose to sit at the bar, a table or booth space and even enjoy the ambiance of a fireplace in the main dining area.
Over the weekend, most tables were filled throughout the day following the grand opening last Wednesday. Prior to the official launch, the restaurant held a soft opening in late September to allow time for staff training.
Bento Box is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., offering lunch, dinner, and late-night dining. As of Monday, the restaurant’s website was still being fine-tuned. For more information, they can be reached at (916) 906-4611.
