CJ Lunch Box is what I would call a sushi dive bar. There is much left to be desired from the decor, but the food is cheap and the service is cheerful. The frankly unappetizing and limited overhead menu makes ordering somewhat confusing. There are no descriptions or photos of arbitrarily named maki and combos. From the way that the very friendly lady behind the counter greeted me and asked me what I was having in the same breath, I figured that this place was frequented by nearby office workers who probably know what they like and have the same thing daily. This was pretty much confirmed when a young girl who looked very much like a fashion intern came in and ordered six California rolls to go.
For a little more than a fiver, I was able to afford the daily special of a shrimp tempura roll and fried-to-order veggie gyoza. I watched news headlines scroll across the muted flat screen while waiting for my food and was pleasantly surprised to have it served to me with a big smile. There were many more dumplings than I had expected and even a few bonus yam tempura pieces thrown in for good measure. The food wasn't the best, but it filled me right up and was a steal of a deal on a day when I had forgotten my wallet at home and was starving with only a pocketful of borrowed change. Although the table was less than spotless, the large windows provided lots of natural light and a decent people watching vantage point.
I found it quite strange and rather depressing that all of the hot trays and refrigerated section were empty. Since the first thing on the menu are the groceries, it would probably only boost sales if CJ displayed some of those fish and specialty Japanese ingredients out front alongside ready made sushi boxes.