This is a stand within a food court in the old factory area of Rome. There is also a Thai place here (which is on my list for my next trip), but it had zero business. Everything was focused on Bento Soul. On the negative side, the place is a slow. I see one review states "you can tell immediately that this is rooted in tradition, not shortcuts", although working multiple tickets is not a shortcut, it is a survival mechanism for restaurants. Guests will factor in whether or not they have an hour for a counter service restaurant and many won't come back. The service? This was fine, although you order from a kiosk, so not a huge amount of interaction with the staff. They did have someone standing outside the counter to deliver the food to waiting guests. The food? A mix of Asian and Soul, as expected, although the only real Asian part is the soul roll. Everything else is pure southern. Chicken? If I had know they had off menu pork chops. These were kind of meh, personally. Not bad, but not outstanding either. Greens? Fairly standard. Yams? Typical candied yams. Mashed Potatoes? Excellent flavor and consistency. Mac & Cheese? The star of the plate. The Soul Roll was an interesting idea, but I wish they had some different takes as I was choosing what I considered the lesser of two evils. I do appreciate the mashed potatoes and mac & cheese and would consider a side of either. If they would add some gravy, then another thumb up. Based on the hype, I feel this is a bit overrated. And I am unlikely to return if there are any lines. With two other places, only one open on weekends, and nothing else right there, I won't walk over to see if there are lines. If you are into soul food, you will likely find this a good plce to go to. A bit pricier than a diner, but the food fulfills the needs. If you are into mac & cheese, then definitely give it a try. I would avoid dinner hours. read more

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If you're looking for real soul food made with love, this spot is it. Came out for their launch and everything--from the food to the energy--was on point. You can tell immediately that this is the kind of place where recipes are rooted in tradition, not shortcuts. The food was flavorful, comforting, and cooked right--the kind that feels like home but still hits restaurant-quality standards. Portions were generous, seasoning was perfect (not bland, not overpowering), and every dish felt intentional. Beyond the food, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the team clearly cares about what they're building here. This place is a must-try if you love authentic soul food or just want a meal that actually satisfies. So excited to see what's next for them -- I'll definitely be back. read more

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The mac and cheese, baked beans, meatloaf, candied yams and muffin was great. The soul roll with the sauce was good. The staff was really friendly. They cook to order, which I love because the food is hot and fresh. read more

Bento Soul - Fish, mac and cheese, candied yams, meatloaf, bake beans, muffin, and soul roll - Southern Near Me - Rome, Georgia

What an expensive disappointment. You have to order from a screen and then are asked for a tip at payment. If food was good that would not have been a problem. We ordered two plates and then had to wait 15-20 mins for them to be ready. Food was nothing to brag about. We brought home left overs and then wouldn't eat them. You pick up the food and then find a seat yourself. No tea... can drinks I think. And all this for the same price as a nice sit down restaurant! read more

Chicken was good everything was tasty but the only thing that was wrong was the fish let the cook know that he or she needs to wash or soak the fish because it tastes real fishy read more

Food was tasty and very home cooked version nice amount for the price. It was a little wait but the food was prepared per order!!! Hot and delicious read more

Good service fresh food ! Location is also great, will visit again! Not open throughout week