Benihana

A fairly typical Benihana type (chain) restaurant..with lots of theatrics from the "Teppen Yaki" Chefs. Not quite as polished as in years past. In asking for an actual Japanese chef to serve us however (to hopefully communicate with our Japanese only speaking mother) we were told that none actually worked in that restaurant. All chefs that night were not only non Japanese..but spoke only broken English. Good thing some of us spoke Spanish!



However the food was prepared in fairly typical Behihana style..not especially Japanese..more like Hawaiian or Mongolian Barbeque in terms of preparation and ingredients. Our American and Hispanic co-diners at our table loved it though. As they commented: they came there for the show..and a chance to dine at someplace different..not especially for authentic Japanese cuisine.



The actual dishes themselves seemed tasty enough: bits of steak, shrimp, veges, fried rice & veges. We thought (as being used to traditional Japanese Teppen Yaki restaurants in Japan) that the use of garlic butter on most dishes was unnecessary. Food quality seemed good..but not exceptional. However..excepting the ambience and theatrics of Bennihana..paying $35.00+ per person for fried rice and stir fried shrimp (not including drinks)..seemed like an experience that will be limited to perhaps Birthdays and special occasions.



The reception and hosting staff were exceptionally courteous and helpful.