Friday, March 15, 2024

Bento Boxes from Sushi Tendo

Happy Friday! After a long week working from home, I decided to shake things up and join a last-minute meetup organized by Tech2Step. This innovative group organizes networking walks along the scenic Seawall, starting at Science World. It's a fantastic way to connect with fellow tech professionals, all while enjoying the beauty of the Vancouver waterfront.

The walk itself was a delightful mix of networking and reminiscing. As I chatted with a couple of Filipino immigrants who were new to Canada and looking for work opportunities, I couldn't help but be reminded of my own journey. Memories of my initial struggles upon arriving in Canada and navigating the job search resurfaced – a bittersweet reminder of how far I've come.

With a heart full of emotions and legs that had enjoyed a good workout, my husband and I ended the evening with a delicious (and light!) dinner. Sushi Tendo on Cambie Street beckoned, and we happily obliged.

Now, being a Friday during Lent presented a slight challenge. However, Sushi Tendo offered a perfect solution – various delectable options that adhered to our fasting restrictions.

For a shared appetizer, we opted for the assorted tempura. This came with a generous portion of four juicy prawns and four pieces of mixed vegetables, all cloaked in a tempura batter that was slightly oilier than anticipated. Despite the somewhat heavier batter, the star of the show remained the perfectly cooked shrimp and vegetables – fresh, flavorful, and a delightful prelude to the main course.


Assorted Tempura from Sushi Tendo
4 pieces prawns and 4 pieces mixed vegetables

For my main event, I selected the Bento D. A dynamite roll added a touch of spice, while the salmon and tuna sashimi were melt-in-your-mouth fresh. The salmon teriyaki on rice provided a comforting savoury element, completing the bento experience perfectly.


Bento D from Sushi Tendo
Dynamite roll, salmon and tuna sashimi, and salmon teriyaki on rice

Hubby opted for the Bento E. This feast for the eyes (and the stomach!) included four pieces of nigiri sushi – a vibrant selection of salmon, tuna, shrimp (ebi), and hokkigai (surf clam). Three pieces of takoyaki (octopus dumplings) offered a textural contrast, while the unagi (BBQ eel) on rice added a touch of smoky sweetness.


Bento E from Sushi Tendo
4 pieces of nigiri sushi (salmon, tuna, ebi, hokkigai), takoyaki (3 pieces), and unagi (BBQ eel) on rice.


Both bento boxes came with a refreshing miso soup and a crisp salad, the perfect complement to the main dishes. It was a light yet satisfying meal, ideal for a post-walk dinner and a reminder that deliciousness doesn't have to be heavy.

As we continued our walk home, our conversation flowed freely – a testament to the power of a shared experience and the joy of good company. I felt a deep sense of gratitude – for the blessing of a supportive husband, fulfilling work, and the peaceful city and country we now call home. Evenings like this, filled with connection, delicious food, and appreciation, are the ones I cherish most.

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