There are unique Asian bowls used for serving many popular foods, from plain rice, to miso, to noodle dishes. Some of the bowls come with lids, which is ideal for keeping the food inside warm. Lids are especially popular on rice, miso and serving bowls. These bowls are great for holding rice or soups, but they can also be used for a variety of other things in a pinch, such as mango pudding or sticky rice.

Specialty bowls are designed for nabemono and soba, two popular Japanese country foods. Several of the nabe bowls even have chafing fuel holders for keeping the nabe hot at the table. Special bowls are also popular items taht are designed for holding small amounts of soup, stir fries or rice.