The Bowl Craze: Why Urban Lunches are Served in a Bowl

Written by: Tex Wambui

In busy cities full of high-rise buildings and fast-paced workers, grabbing a bowl of food for lunch has become incredibly popular. But why is everyone so hooked on bowl meals? Let’s dive into why bowls are the go-to choice and whether they’re really worth it, based on my own experience.I’ve noticed that bowls are all about convenience. They’re quick to prepare and easy to eat, perfect for those who don’t have much time to spare. With lunch breaks getting shorter, being able to grab a meal and get back to work quickly is a big advantage.

​Another big plus is that bowls are portable. They’re easy to carry around, whether you’re eating at your desk, in the park, or on the go. This makes them ideal for busy professionals who need a meal that’s not going to spill everywhere.

Bowls also offer a lot of variety. You can find poke bowls, grain bowls, salad bowls, and more. Many places let you build your own bowl, choosing your favorite ingredients. This means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or have other dietary needs.

People also love bowls because they seem healthy. They often include fresh veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. For those trying to eat well, bowls appear to be a balanced meal that gives you the energy you need.

But all this convenience and variety come at a cost. Bowl meals usually cost between $10 and $12 each. If you buy one every weekday, that’s $50-$60 a week just for lunch. Compare that to cooking at home, where a week’s worth of lunches might only cost $20-$30. This price difference can really add up, especially if you’re watching your budget.

Speaking from personal experience, I decided to try eating a bowl every day for a week. At first, I enjoyed the convenience and the tasty combinations. But by the end of the week, I started to feel the pinch on my wallet. Spending $50-$60 a week on lunch made me realize how quickly the costs can add up. It wasn’t just about the money, though. I began to feel a sense of monotony. Even with different ingredients, the routine of having a bowl every day started to feel boring. I missed the excitement of trying different types of meals.

Another thing I noticed was that while bowls are often seen as healthy, they can sometimes be loaded with extra calories from dressings and sauces. I had to be careful to avoid these hidden calories to stick to my healthy diet. Despite the initial satisfaction, eating bowls every day wasn’t as perfect as it seemed.

So, are bowl meals worth it? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you value convenience, health, and the ability to customize your meal, bowls might be great for you. But if the cost and the potential for boredom are concerns, you might want to mix things up.

A good approach is to balance your lunches. Try different types of meals, prepare some lunches at home, or explore new restaurants. This way, you keep things interesting and can make more mindful choices about your food.

In the end, the bowl trend in cities shows how much we value quick, healthy, and customizable meals. While they have many benefits, being aware of their downsides can help you enjoy your lunches even more.