Behind the Counter at a local Japanese Bento Shop

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This is a Japan behind the counter food tour of a local Japanese bento shop. For more than 40 years, Bento Kawano has been making delicious Japanese handmade bento lunches at the affordable price of 600yen. At this value and quality it’s no surprise everyday that the customer lunch lines wrap around the entire block. One important things about this Japanese bento shop is that they must be extra careful about food safety. Since Bentos are designed to be able to sit on the shelf for several hours without refrigeration, the food must always be fully cooked. Run by Japanese food craftsman, Inoue san, he changes the menu everyday so his customers have something to look forward to. He particularly enjoys analyzing the performance of his previous bentos and creating new ones to see how popular it will be, but ultimately he says that whatever bento he serves, he creates each one as if he’ll be sharing it with his loved ones. Interestingly, this Tokyo bento shop runs 4 rice cookers simultaneously throughout the entire day to keep up with the demand using a special hitomebore rice from Miyagi prefecture known for its exquisite taste especially when its cooled down. Even the rice at the shop was specifically selected by Inoue san. I hope you enjoy this Tokyo Hidden gem bento shop.
Bento Kawano
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[@PaolofromTOKYO]

tokyozebra.com/btc - Watch all my Japan Behind the Counter videos here tokyozebra.com/merch Help support the channel and get my Tokyo Merch Use my code PAOLO15 at partner.bokksu.com/paolo15 to get $15 off your first Bokksu Japanese snack box!

[@desultorilypanacea]

Could you do video of small towns that are giving away free or cheap houses?

[@goatelement]

this is one of the better episodes man, i like how we can feel the positive energy from the chef and how his excellent work ethic pays off

[@ropro9817]

Only 600 yen for those bentos??? They look soooooo good! 🤤 Why can't we have nice lunches like that for so cheap in America~~~~ 😭😭😭 I love the energy of this staff! I'd eat there every day just because of that! 🤠

[@theflynns9783]

Paolo,,, where in Tokyo is this shop?

[@Jenny03]

They're all super! How can I know what ingredient is in there of any of those 🍱? I don't know how read the menu 🥺

[@dimazagungprakoso1941]

His mother passed away when he's teenager, and then his father abandoned him without relatives make him fend for himself to survive. Then, he goes from regular salary man to legendary hot rod ridin' bento shop owner. This man IS the main character

[@KymHammond]

Of course!

[@jiul4907]

And also with a sweet wife who supports him 🥰

[@pendaco]

End Boss vibes!

[@joebroadbeef332]

He is Not the Main character...he is the GOAT!!!!

[@KymHammond]

@@joebroadbeef332 what does that mean

[@DamplyDoo]

This chef is literally a legend, in so many ways. What a story!

[@xxiii262]

@@jeffstumpf9129 both, but the chef is truly amazing with his commitment

[@chelseagirl1253]

Yes the chef is such an inspiration!

[@Dexterity_Jones]

The Chef seems like such a GC, I instantly liked him

[@Frshmachine]

@@jeffstumpf9129 he is but it kind of makes me sad. he seems honest and genuine but he's working himself to death :/ he barely has time to clean up and sleep, let alone time for his family

[@TheBChelby]

@@xxiii262 When does the chef sleep?

[@orale_]

Paulo: "So what time do you start work?" Owner: "Midnight" Paulo: "I'll see you at 6am"

[@pramodnecromancer1520]

😂😂😂

[@falutak]

After watching a lot of the "Behind the counter" videos, I came to realize that doing any job needs to be done with pride. I see all these Japanese people being proud of their work no matter what it is. I started trying to practice their philosophy in what they do. It made me realize that a job doesn't have to be that stressful. I love these videos, they inspire me to do better, and treat other people better. Also, it changed some of my perspectives in life. Sometimes when I catch myself in a bad mood due to work or life in general, I am reminded of these people from these videos. Thank you for all the videos!

[@JunieBy]

This is the main reason why Paolo's videos are so special! It inspires me to work more diligently and with joy each and every day.

[@danabaker596]

100% agree. I've seen some of these videos where the boss goes in and scrubs the toilets and bathroom area, and sweeps the sidewalk, etc. They take such pride in their jobs. It is inspiring.

[@bisickleta6385]

Very well said. Likewise.

[@jkid4855]

because they value the Artisan Spirit in everything they do. You can be the best at doing anything job. This is how many of them live their lives.

[@thevectorchef]

The fact that he starts at 12:30 am is mind blowing. I respect his hard work and discipline. Wishing much success to him, his staff, and his family.

[@zynali1171]

At that point you're not even living anymore, it's just work work and more work. Remember guys, work to live not live to work. But I do admire his commitment and dedication which alot of people cannot do.

[@yagamilight64]

@@zynali1171 Well said man! That's what I was thinking during the all video! This will take a toll on his health!

[@NicolasdeFontenay]

and finishes at 5pm next day! Whaaaaat?!

[@1MinuteFlipDoc]

@@zynali1171 totally agree. people are wearing their bodies out for a low wage job. No!

[@Uniacoty]

@zynali1171 Exactly. He may enjoy cooking but he does say in the video that he is tired so it's clear he wouldn't choose to work 17 hours if he didn't have to. I do hope his situation will improve.

[@nezukochan86]

Some people just pass the vibe check immediately. This chef is one of them. So casual and yet, so dedicated in what he does. Treats his staff with respect and friendliness. Just a wholesome guy. Major props to him.

[@shaveershroff9398]

You hit the nail on the head.👍🏻

[@FahBreezyy]

@@shaveershroff9398 ringa dinga dinga dinga

[@fogellmclovin8906]

can u mary me or somtin iduno

[@derrickmcadoo3804]

Reminds me of a boss I had here in the states. 👍

[@sam510938764]

7:27 I actually love the response from the boss. It shows he is pragmatic and honest about employment instead of gaslighting the workers into some sort of made-up philosophy for their jobs.

[@nebulousparadox]

peppy

[@mandeep3.14]

I was surprised by that, it seems rare

[@pandex69]

​@@nebulousparadoxosu player i c

[@tabby7189]

It's not wrong to have a romanticized ideal that the organization aims for and to invite the employees into it, as long as they feel free to admit if they're mostly indifferent about that vision and just enjoy having a stable, functional, and reasonably safe working environment where they can feel productive and take wages they find fair. I think most employees prefer an owner and managers who are motivated by something spiritual which doesn't have any obvious translation in dollar amounts, even if they're not into the vision.

[@yanniesays]

"Sometimes, I come to work just to eat this bento." If that isn't the biggest compliment ever! Dzaaamn! More power to this shop and the legendary owner!!!

[@nilsaggu]

Inoue san has such a great personality (perfect for TV shows) - a down to earth man who has been through hell yet he doesn't complain and seems to always smile and joke while keeping things lively... while feeding so many at such low cost! A highly honorable man.

[@shizuxo]

"isn't it the money"? 😂

[@michi-bi]

@ᴛɪᴍᴏᴛʜʏ I think its just Him and that one girl though. He was having trouble hiring workers to work at midnight @4:10 mark

[@shizuxo]

@Repent and believe in Jesus Christ Amen

[@tommyfield8449]

@@michi-bi working at midnight is fine if the pay are double than 'morning' shift workers because essentially he is paying 1 worker to come in early(assuming every train line end at 12.30am). Which is probably why not many are interested in working night shift as 1 you are working in hot environment(6hours of frying). What i think the boss can do is,rent another place to have a mini kitchen where he can employ more staff to help him prepare for next day. This mean he can close both shop at 1pm assuming most of dishes run out by 12pm. He then would be home at least by 2pm.8 hours of rest. Maybe have a late dinner before leaving house by 11.30(assuming how far his house is from restaurant). I do believe once his business keep going strong,he will probably managed his time better. To add on,he closed the shop when he fell sick. Which mean no income,so i think he should hire an experience chef as his co worker when he can't be at the shop.

[@AnxChan]

@@michi-bi if u watch the whole vid the student girl goes home before they open and other workers come in

[@anonymoustraveler9746]

Incredible man. Losing both parents young but still managed to achieve what he has and became who he is today is amazing. Such an inspiration. Also, 600 yen for that size of a bento is super cheap. I bet even if he charges 800 yen, people will still buy it.

[@ashishbarthwal6961]

The great thing is he probably wouldn't increase the price tag, like another one of Paolo's video showed the shop owner and how it pained him to increase the pricetag of his food services and it was done only because of the increasing cost of the ingredients... these shop owners have sincere dignity and respect towards their craft and you gotta respect that.

[@g60force]

I think it's even better to raise price from 600 to 700-800 even if 10% of the customers go elsewhere... he would still earn more and has less work! technically if he is extra clever keep slowly raising prices it's like slow boiling a frog people barely notice... each year 50extra, then when moving towards 800-1000 he could slow down work even further and focus on perfection perhaps adding extra ingredients or slightly increase portions could do this until he retires, even selling the establishment and he'll be set for life!

[@dbzispimpin]

All that food and FRESHLY COOKED and natural ingredients? Those Bento's are easily worth $10-12 here in the US, so like around 1000-1200 Yen worth... 600 Yen is an amazing value for such a tasty looking and moderately healthy lunch.

[@ashishbarthwal6961]

@@dbzispimpin Food would be above any other reason for me to visit Japan if I ever do

[@masterchiefy830]

he is buying in bulk making costing a little lower.. but imagine he earns around almost half a million yen a day. He's passion is to bring food to people ...

[@rss_ruby]

Imagine if his story were made into an anime, I'd for sure watch it. Top class man, so much respect for him

[@j433]

A fabulous idea!! I'd watch it. It'd be a little like The Way of the Househusband. What an interesting man and they all work so hard but are so positive.

[@abuthahirkaleel4947]

I agree ! Naruto tasting Bento for the first time !

[@MadPutz]

Watch Food Wars, aka Shokugeki No Souma. An anime about a teen raised in a family diner who is admitted to a culinary academy and battles snobby chefs.

[@shoked99]

Great idea. I'd totally watch it.

[@hilmyakatsuki1665]

Yeah but reality is different and it feels far better to understand the world rather than anime where something will be not correct to comply with viewers needs so making the whole thing made up.

[@ZaraAllegra]

I fully appreciate that Paolo features local shop owners, promoting their products and giving them an opportunity to share their life experiences. :)

[@quinn756]

Mad respect to Inoue-san for his devotion. You can tell that he truly loves what he does with how energetic and happy he is in that kitchen.

[@leeroyjenkins867]

12:30am until 5pm. This man works 17 hours non-stop and then only has less than 7 hours for sleep (not including commuting, family time, shower etc.). I really hope he gets to use his funds to hire another person to help with his workload cos this wouldn't be sustainable long-term, but also I really admire his work ethic!

[@vongdong10]

Funds aren't a problem, it's finding someone. He said he's hiring but no one applies. He also doesn't need to be there for that long. He's got like 5 other workers that can do whatever he does during the day.

[@killerteddy100]

This is also very typical for Japanese people, let alone a shop owner. They usually work 12+ hour days, he left the salaryman business but now he's back to being a salaryman again, it's just the way of the Japanese work culture.

[@christophersteen1873]

@@killerteddy100 Shit is picking up in america too, I think the average work hours per week is fairly similar these days. Way more people than you think are out there working two jobs 16 hours a day 5 days a week.

[@waruwadab506]

japanese life style hard work less sleep

[@leeroyjenkins867]

@@vongdong10 This is the same logic used in "labour shortages". No one applies because the wage vs effort ratio is not appealing. If he advertised the wage to be, for example, 5000 YEN per hour I guarantee you there will be applicants. It's because the wage being offered isn't high enough. But instead the funds are being used elsewhere which doesn't leave much left to be used for hiring

[@RRoo13]

When does he sleep? He starts cooking at midnight, works all day, preps for next day until 5pm? That's dedication and pride in what he does. So admirable

[@allyeatworld]

i love him!!! he's so bubbly, friendly, funny, humble, sweet and hardworking, gosh. bless him!!

[@cr5000]

I love how proud he seems of his staff and how much love he shows for everything- work, hobbies, family etc. Wholesome ✨

[@ginahtran1210]

This was my favorite one of this series. Love how proud he is of his workers and only had nice things to say about everyone on his life. Hope he’s able to get some good rest and time with his fam!

[@hayatirania366]

The puffer fish restaurant so nice too, they no open in summer and do traveling 😀

[@YamiPheonix531]

Inoue san is not human as no human can survive that amount of labor intensive work while keeping a sharp precision on the quality of his product. And he keeps it up everyday. He’s truly superhuman and a force of nature that deserves to be enshrined for being a bento badass chef and owner.

[@user-yi2ew4gz9r]

He seems to be really amazing but the sad truth is that he is a human..the quality of life should be top priority for everyone and time is finite .. I really like paolo's videos and as i watch him I can see that he is happy that he is a hard working youtuber and not working as a salaryman or behind any counter in Japan. I love this country and it's people but some things should change

[@esthercullen]

Not all heroes wear capes. This man has my respect and my admiration. Wish him, the staff, and his family all the happiness in the world.

[@NatashaChuah]

Inoue san deserves all the success he gets! He is so hardworking and dedicated, it's unreal! I've never seen a food line that long. His customers are fortunate to be fed by Inoue san daily :)

[@TorToroPorco]

Many of the business owners Paolo highlights are so inspiring. Making and selling 800 Bento is an incredible number. I’d hazard a guess that he grosses more in sales than the average ramen shop even with the low prices.

[@INITIAL-AS]

Yes i think you right. I read that average revenue per month of ramen shop is around 5.5m yen. He sold 800 bento a day for 600 yen means he got around 11.5m yen per month. Impressive. He deserve it though

[@JagsP95]

@@INITIAL-AS Holy thats like a little over a million dollars a year

[@wm6549]

@@INITIAL-AS Japanese work six days a week?

[@INITIAL-AS]

@@wm6549 im not sure really. Im just using assumption in some food industries. He probably only work for 5 days though since his customers seem mainly office workers.

[@GameFuMaster]

@@INITIAL-AS but it still depends on costs. Like ingredients, rent and employee. I do wonder what the profit margins are, especially when it's a 17 hour day.

[@prashanttheheman]

Japanese bentos are a LIFESAVER! you get access to healthy food for so cheap, it is one of my favourite things in Japan. There are so many days when i don't feel like cooking, i just get a grilled fish rice or grilled chicken, brocolli rice bentos. Bless all the bento makers!

[@StopDropandLOL]

Starts at 00:30 and works until 17:00!! Wow, that's a really tough schedule to bear. I wish him good health.

[@DelonSerinoVlogs]

The owner’s energy radiates. He loves to talk a lot and that will bring in customers. Hope his success continues and his shop gets more recognition.

[@Jesuscares7680]

I'm 67 and this owner inspires me..what a wonderful human being..this entire shop is a tribute to hard workers ..dedication & love..USA..Mary..

[@dim6066]

@@henryt9281 huh?

[@eugenel2724]

Wow. This is pure dedication. He works from 12.30am to 5pm which is 16 1/2 hours which leaves him not much time to sleep and spend with his family.

[@tokuchitoua6981]

Huge amount of workload. The chef’s incredible.

[@NickPR87]

Daaaaaamn! That man is an absolute freakin' tank! He seems like a very sweet man, I fear such long hours will take a massive toll on his health. Godspeed to him and his team.

[@AlexBsSecret]

yes, he should hire and teach someone full-time who can maintain the place with the same efficiency and heart like him when Inoue-san needs to take a break or just simply to have a small vacation with his children. But as he said finding really good workers who want to do this kind of hard work is rare.

[@cherylco2487]

yes i was thinking the same.. he is for sure not getting enough rest and sleep :( quite worrisome for his health....i wish him the best he is one of a kind

[@kittiemaus]

Yes this is true. Everyone is praising his hard work and toughness but we are all human and this man works too many hours. 12:30am until 5pm wow. It is not good for the heart. He can die this way. He should hire small shifts until he can come in at a reasonable time in the morning.

[@NickPR87]

@@AlexBsSecret hopefully this video will help him find quality hires so he can step out before noon and have appropriate down time.

[@BOZ_11]

@@AlexBsSecret but there are tonnes of bento shops, and they're all doing quite a similar job (this guy's attention to detail and extra portion size notwithstanding)

[@thecarlob_007]

The owner and his team are awesome! Kudos Pao for always finding these people and showing us a glimpse of their lives.

[@normanmarcia7957]

The owner seems like such a nice man overcoming life challenges and still coming out strong with a positive attitude. Thanks Paolo for making videos like this, that show case the passion and dedication people have.

[@genevieveletts6685]

He has such a joyful and easy-going attitude, even in the midst of high pressure. His staff clearly respects him. He's obviously where he's meant to be! Wish I could try the bento! Thanks for sharing!

[@Ray-hf3yd]

Working as a sous-chef of a high end Japanese restaurant for 5 years I'm extremely impressed that they can handle 800 orders in a day working in a kitchen that small. The margin of error is so small that if anything disrupts the workflow (things falling, something wrong with ingredients, something wrong with electricity or machines, someone not paying attention and bumping into one another, accidents of any kind) everything is backed up, worst case scenario to a halt.

[@SaintVic2287]

It's unbelievably difficult to have a family and work overnights. This man is incredible to be able to keep it up. Being able to spend time with your kids and balance everything is extremely hard! I had 4 kids and was only able to work an overnight job for about a year! So hats off to this gentleman!

[@Dxco31]

japanese work ethic and dedication is on another level

[@GabrielFerreira-nd5hv]

This video really made me tear up a bit for some reason. What a GREAT guy and surrounded by great people too. Bless him and everyone in his life

[@swibbs]

WOW its hard to catch but at the end Paolo says he prepares for the next day and wraps up shop at 5pm, but gets up to open up sop at 12:30am! What a legend!

[@LaNoir.]

typical work hours in Japan, he just gets around passing out drunk in the train

[@Therainbowtwins]

I know right how many hours of sleep does he have this dude needs help 😢

[@codeninja100]

The chef seems like a really down to earth guy. The life he’s lived was a tough one for sure. Wishing him many more years of success

[@xiRePeNTx]

i love the guy's sense of humor

[@audrey9561]

Wow I can’t believe how hard the owner works, what an incredible person he is to be so dedicated and have a good attitude!

[@alejandrosotomartin9720]

I congratulate you for the way you combine the narration and responses in English and how you seamlessly integrate these into your videos with the cooks' explanations in Japanese. In addition to putting subtitles. Fits perfectly and looks very natural.

[@tsuyoakito2384]

I have nothing but respect for him. His lifestory and passion are so impressive.

[@scribblescratch3011]

Awesome dedication props to this gentleman for running his business 12am to 5pm

[@sergioruiz733]

Honestly having gone abroad to expand my cooking knowledge, had I known Japanese I gladly would have worked for this man. He has a kind nature in what is a very stressful career, especially considering his customer base. I applaud him, there are so many stories that I have heard working for high end chefs, but this man has my respect

[@debra2107]

This has to be one of my favorites! Such nice people--I hope to visit Japan some day and I would definitely stand in line for this delicious bento! Thanks Paolo!!

[@FromDkWithLove]

Heck I'd volunteer there if I could... I'd probably drag 'em down though. What this guy's created is not a workplace, but an institution vital to so many people. What a legend.

[@yokobono3324]

Glad to see this man rise above all of the adversity he faced. Very wholesome and very admirable. 11/10!

[@ndreece09]

Japanese never cease to amaze me with the ability to adapt and overcome. They are wonderful people to learn from 💪🏼

[@QuentinLatour]

Always loved the simplicity of those boxes.

[@EndlessMuse]

I liked this guy from the moment he teased you! He has a great sense of humor.

[@royrodriguez7812]

What a hard working and humble man. Thanks for showing my family a true hard beautiful addition to the world.

[@alonelypotato2788]

this man is not a shop owner..he's not even a boss....he's a leader......i would work for him...

[@Tworrtis]

600 yen for such good quality bento in the center of Tokyo is just incredible.

[@viccasaur]

Wow! Inoue San is absolutely amazing! He works so hard, and has such a happy personality despite all he’s been through. For selling something so amazing and cheap costing, I am speechless. He is such a selfless human being, he deserves so much more.

[@Meomoriesoftimmy]

Businesses like this is very inspiring. They all seem humble and meek but their following shows just how much they are appreciated.

[@helljumper6969]

Damn. This dude is literally the embodiment of fortitude and hardwork.

[@mrreonkadena]

How impressive, so inspiring! A hardworking amiable boss, cheerful employees, loyal customers, masterful videography, and food looks good, too!

[@chelseagirl1253]

Yes! I loved how he really saw the amazing work his employee do. He did not withhold compliments. He definately inspires them and builds them through his great personality too. He really appreciated the hard working attributes and brains of the first young woman that was going to school for science. I loved that he commented and built her up! What a great man! Love your comment so true!

[@edwardfletcher7790]

Japanese people work so hard to perfect their craft. I really admire this man 👍

[@cee_el]

Wow this man. Hats off to him. Waking up at midnight everyday. Does he sleep at 6pm? I hope all this pays off and he can go enjoy his time with his family. He’s also a humorous guy

[@zonecrimzon1222]

I love that not only the owner is appreciative of his staff but the customers are also super appreciative

[@cyberqueen7784]

I was so touched by Inoue-san's story! It's amazing how hard he works and how he gained confidence through hard work! His bentos all look so delicious! When I finally get the chance to travel to Japan, I will definitely visit Bento Kawano!

[@philiq18]

I usually click the like button before I watch the video, as I'm always confident it's going to be another winner. You never disappoint, Paolo. The owner is quite the personality -- it was great hearing his story and seeing the seamless culinary choreography of his entire team.

[@andrealordelo2926]

We will visit Tokyo in May. I will come visit Bento Kawano. So much respect for Japanese people. I can’t wait to be there.❤

[@OrangeMelon419]

Make sure to give a Update here after your visit 😊

[@SimbaPlaysMCMain]

Is it possible for this legend to be awarded a Medal for what he’s been through. I love to buy these bentos and support him. I mean there should be a Michelin star for him!

[@nr7975]

I can't imagine the amount of time and effort you put into these videos. It really shows! Each and every one of your videos are amazingly well put together, keep it up!

[@d0mpu]

Wow, the owner is so fun and friendly!

[@LandfallYT]

This shop owner is incredible. This is one of the best videos you've done I think.

[@haylz4000]

the owner seems like such a genuine guy, something about him makes him seem like he's naturally great at making everyone feel comfortable and welcomed around him. I would love to visit the shop one day

[@paulanthonybongcac804]

Dedication 😅 both for the store owner to get delicious food out.. and Dedication from Paolo and Maiko with great videos like this

[@xXBIueStarXx]

Its so cool to see small businesses being promoted and showen by you Paolo realy nice work. i hope you find more of such hidden gems in tokyo and other citys in Japan!

[@kedar_ghimire]

This was amazing… but the title of the video didnt do justice! It should be … bento shop ran by legendary chef… please bring more of these kind of inspiring videos

[@bhupandrarajput1124]

I'd go to Japan just to shake this man's hand he is pure soul.

[@pl4yae]

he is a walking goat! unbelievable how much he does and i love the overall teamwork with his staffs

[@Here4theComments]

The owner is fantastic, what a great guy! And I love the way he speaks about his employee. Full of kind words!

[@SL-rb4zo]

I went here after watching Paolo's video! Also met the owner. He was so nice and the bento was delicious! 😊

[@danhill1186]

The chef is a legend! Mad respect to his work ethic and attention to detail , and to the kindness he shows to his workers!

[@avg18]

This chef is so sweet I would travel to Japan to make a line at his shop!! He feels so positive, I can't help but to feel happy watching this video ☺️

[@LittleMissElliott]

This is so cool, I love these types of videos and getting deeper into the Japanese restaurants we love.

[@jifinjosechiramal]

The fact that they make everything with the same heart and soul is absolutely amazing. Japanese people are soo good and happy all the time... Would love to visit and stay in Japan some day... ❤️

[@avaseicho333]

i genuinely think we need a follow up of Inoue san in a few months! hes such a humble dude and i would genuinely watch so much more of him

[@edjarrett3164]

The food looked amazing along the attention to detail for each bento. Describing what this owner does is a measure of love for his business and those that work for him. You only have to look at the line to understand his loyal customers. The line is the tribute to his great business. Great video Paulo. You captured what was important at this small business.

[@llKaiserx0ll]

This is my favorite one so far. The dedication to the craft is inspiring.

[@rcdlie2153]

So inspiring, ganbatte Inouie-san and friends! Hope to visit there when i got to Japan. Thank u for awesome behind the counter video Paolo-san! God bless.

[@PaolofromTOKYO]

Thank you so much! I appreciate all of the support.

[@stackingstates]

This is by far the best video I’ve seen from this section of Paolos videos. What a legend the chef is. God bless him and his workers.

[@richelleg225]

Inoue-san is amazing! I also laughed when I saw his car. My husband loves those and almost bought one too!

[@Brock_900]

Delicious and fascinating . This was so cool to watch

[@DeezNuts88]

what a great guy with a great little shop. thanks for this video!

[@chucko1732]

This owner's attitude blazes like the sun. What a great guy!

[@j433]

Greetings from the U.S., these people are all so amazing. Hard working but so positive! I love how the owner talks about his workers and the food looks absolutely amazing!! Thanks for this look, Paolo.

[@CiaoKitchen]

A true testimony of what Isshokenmei means. Wish the chef good heath for his good deeds.

[@jekster]

What a beautiful thing they do each day to feed all those people wonderful food.

[@sugiharakirishima]

The owner is so cheerful ❤️

[@supermn05]

Working from 12:30 AM to 5 PM? Geez.. that’s insane! Food looked so good though 😋

[@pittbier7597]

I'm so impressed, but thats not okay imo. actually insane

[@Sagittarius-A-Star]

This really looks delicious. The relationship between the owner and the first employee that came into the shop is also heartwarming.

[@dgk42]

Other staff seemed to have a similar relationship. Really good to see.

[@Fluster]

he seems genuinely happy and has so many interesting hobbies

[@scarlett8782]

wow, Kobayashi-san's nails were so pretty and clean! you know you have a great worker when her nails and hands are so well kept and perfectly clean for work. there are a lot of good things about Japanese standards.

[@PaperCranesAndHaiku]

Inouesan had a challenging life losing his mom at an early age and his father abandoned him. He’s an amazing human most likely helping others who have been through tough times, like his customers who have different stories as well, maybe his obento is the only thing they’re looking forward to everyday. Inouesan’s obento looks sooo good!❤ I can’t wait to try especially the fish ❤

[@NissanSkylineVR30]

Thank you for sharing his shop. When I go to Japan, I will make sure to try to get a Bento from his shop to show support.

[@MonacoSpeed]

As an Aussie, I admire the Japanese Bento culture. I’m an American international school teacher, we get bentos delivered to school everyday. They are always different. We get a monthly menu so we always know what the next day’s lunch will be. At $3 US dollars per bento, who can complain.

[@adaikonen]

"I started at 00:30. You're kinda late" made me laugh so hard. Such a fun person :D