Taiwanese love their bento boxes, and none are probably as famous as those made by the Taiwan Railways Administration. But a recent cut in supply has caused some customers to start lining up early to get their fix.
Bento boxes are a Taiwanese staple, and possibly none are more famous than those from the Taiwan Railways Administration. One eager customer says she lines up at 10 in the morning to get her NT$60 lunch box. She says if you come any later, they’re usually sold out. NT$60 is less than US$2, so the meal is a good deal.
Rain or shine, throngs line up for boxes of stewed pork chop or chicken over rice.
Another loyal customer says he feels like he’s won the lottery when he successfully purchases one of these lunches. He says you can’t find a more affordable bento anywhere else.
Recently though, supplies of the delicious lunch have declined, limiting their already tight supply.
Rail authorities say the main kitchen in Taipei, where the bentos are usually produced, is under renovation. During this time a secondary kitchen outside of the city makes the lunches and they have to get delivered in.
The recent change has reduced production by about 10%. Many hope that after renovations are completed in late October, these delectable boxes will be once again available to all who want them.