Benihana

3.3 (4.4k reviews)

PriceySushi Bars, Teppanyaki, Steakhouses

Open • 11:00 am - 11:00 pm

Updated 3 months ago

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Benihana - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

Benihana - Inside - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

Benihana - At Benihana Downey at Promonade! $39 lunch deal! Salad, rice, steak, CA rolls. yummy! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

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Benihana - Benihana punch - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

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BENIHANA ATMOSPHERE

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Casual

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Moderate noise

Good for groups

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Vita H.

We used to come to Benihana quite a bit back in the day for my husband's birthday. He would always get those birthday coupons, and apparently Benihana remembered us because... welp, he got another one! So off we go! Walking back into Benihana was definitely a little trip down memory lane. And honestly? It hasn't changed all that much over the years. Same concept, same hibachi experience, and pretty much the same good food. We went in the afternoon, so it wasn't crowded--which was nice because we didn't have to wait around. BUT... I will say, part of the fun of Benihana is watching the other tables, hearing people celebrate, and feeling that little birthday-party energy throughout the restaurant. Since it was so quiet, some of that excitement was missing. Our chef was entertaining and kept things fun at our table. The food was good, and I really had no complaints. Our waitress was attentive and made sure we had everything we needed. Overall, everything went well. Nothing over-the-top or wildly different from what we remembered, but it was nice to return to a place that has been part of our birthday tradition over the years. The birthday coupon brought us back, but the memories made the trip worth it. And yes... if another birthday coupon shows up next year, I'm sure we'll be having this same conversation again.

Lynnae F.

Went for the $15.99 Power Lunch. Got the steak protein which was an uncharted but I wanted to treat myself. The tableside show was fun as always. A little truncated due to the 45 minute or less guarantee. Food was alright. A little less than what I expected portion wise but I was here for the show so it didnt bother me. Wait time was quick. Didn't wait more than 10 minutes and got sat with another party. Only thing that bothered me was the lady in the other party was a pescatarian and she saw the chef handle her shrimp after he handled our steak without wiping anything down. Allegedly its allowed because of the 45 minute policy. She brought it up and the resto tried to make things right.

Rose G.

The food was good :) steak and the shrimp were delicious. The chicken a little dry. The salmon tasted very fresh and was very good. The "sign up for a free appetizer" did not work at all and now I'm signed up and I don't think they remembered to add the points to my account so I would skip that entirely. They seemed very understaffed & like our waitress had a few tables all very far apart from each other. . It was about 1.5 between sitting and ending the meal so it's not a quick meal but it was fine since it was with family. Overall it was a good experience due to our cook and the company we had - everyone at the table was very friendly. The restaurant wasn't quiet due to the shows but it was still very nice where we were seated, just loud in general.

Kenneth S.

We came in last night to enjoy some great food and atmosphere at Benihana's. Our reservation was for 7:15pm and were seated immediately. One of the best features besides the food and entertainment is the birthday coupon you receive! The food was amazing with ordering the Splash n Meadow which is the steak and colossal shrimp which is always good. Our server was Denisse and she was amazing, providing excellent customer service and being so professional. You definitely want to sit in her section! Looking forward to returning again for another great meal.

Ichika G.

One of horrendous experience I've had in my life. I give one star for the chef who entertained us and the food was at least good. Otherwise this place deserves ZERO star. We made a reservation a month ago for 6:30pm and wasn't seated until 7:10pm. We were finally able to eat around 7:45pm. Where we were seated, in the back room with no window, with boxes stashed with a trash of energy drink can I found food bits from the last round and the table oily. I understand the placement but the cleanliness and tidiness has to be corrected. As I started eating the rice, I found something in my rice which was a black, gooey wax thing. The server didn't even apologize, he just brought the new one. I also found our server not too kind when the ventilation is extremely loud in the room how he talks is smaller volume than a mosquito can. There was an elderly in our group but no one also could hear him. You must hate your job but it's none of our business. The restroom was dirty with all toilet paper on the floor. Can't any of the host/hostess clean while they are chitchatting and waiting for the table? Extremely bad management.

TONY O.

So on Wednesday Oct 21.2026 we decide to take our son for his 21birthday to Benihana's our reservation was for 7:15. when we got there they notify us that they were short staff if we wanted to sit for 30 min on the side table . We thought not a big deal we waited so they finally came over to to take us to finally eat and experience to what we thought a food show , Waiter came sit us down brought water came over took our order but forgot to ask if we wanted any drinks soda , hard liquor something we told him we haven't had any drinks he said we will bring menu again but he never did ok we continue to wait another 30 min passed so the chef finally showed up intruduce himself started preparing doing his trucks but completely forgot that some of the people were alllergic to seafood ok not a big deal let's switch the plates no he forgot some of the ingridients in his cart 2 portions of rice and chicken and some other stuff so he kept going to go look for his assistant do they can get him the items . by this time we were all over it . not hungry any more from all the smoke , out eyes were itchy and burning . the worse experience of my life in a restaurant setting .they need better ventilation on top of that our clothes were all filled with smoke and by the time we got to the car the car started to smelll like smoke . So if you go to Benihanas make sure to take a mask and some googles you will need them . We mention to the manager all of the issues on that night but she seem like she didn't really care but gave us 30 dollars off on a check that total 390 dollars .This place really sucks !! Wayne our server was great very apologetic but it was out of his control all of the VS this chan of restaurants have ... good luck !!!

Darren A.

We came for the power lunch. We checked in with the hostess who told us to have a seat in the lounge area. ( we did not make reservations) we waited for around 10 minutes which is ok they were probably waiting on more people to come in to sit us at our table. Nice seated we were promptly greeted by our waitress who took our drink order. For the power lunch you get a starter ( soup or salad) fried rice (which is cooked in the kitchen in the back) and your choice of protein (we got the filet mignon) steak comes with mushrooms. You also get veggies onions and zucchini. If you are use to the "show" at Benihanas you will not be getting that however our 5 year old thought it was so much fun and now wants to be a chef. Services was attentive and the cook was very nice. We will be back.

Breana D.

We came for happy hour and sat in the self seating lounge area. It took about 15 minutes for someone to come by to greet us and drop off menus. While sitting near the sushi bar, I noticed multiple rolls sitting on the counter for a long period of time before being served, which stood out to me. For food, we ordered the Taste of Benihana which includes a starter, appetizer, and entree for $39. The deal is available every day for bar/lounge seating only. I also ordered a burger from the happy hour menu and I was told it would take about 30 minutes. After an hour went by, it never came. When we asked for the check, the server realized the burger had been missed. At that point, I didn't want it anymore but we were still charged for it. The server said they put a patty on the grill so it would be fresh. We had to wait another 5/10 mins even though we were ready to leave. The overall cleanliness of the restaurant could be better, the lounge area didn't feel maintained and the bathrooms were also out of toilet paper.

Annais P.

We had such an amazing experience at Benihana! Chef Precious was incredibly patient, engaging and worked so hard to make our meal fun and memorable. She made everyone at the table feel included especially my six-year-old son, who had the best time watching the cooking show and interacting with her. Our server, Rudy, was just as wonderful and attentive, friendly always making sure we had everything we needed. The combination of Chef Precious and Rudy made for such a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Thank you both for making this such a special experience for our family.

Amber Y.

I recently visited Benihana for a birthday celebration and wanted to share my experience to help others plan ahead. The service was truly a highlight--everyone was warm, attentive, and made the experience feel special, which I really appreciated. I did visit using the birthday offer, and while I was excited about it, I wish there had been a bit more clarity around what was included. Some items I thought were standard ended up being considered add-ons, which changed the overall expectation of the "birthday treat." It wasn't a bad experience at all, just a little different from what I anticipated. I also think it would be helpful if guests were given a bit more space when it comes to selecting gratuity, as it can feel a little pressured in the moment. Overall, I still enjoyed the atmosphere and the kindness of the staff. I would definitely recommend coming here for the experience--just be mindful of the details of any promotions so you can fully enjoy your visit without surprises.

Robert Z.

Always coming to this benihana since its relative closer distance to DTLA, and it is far more an dining experience than just food, so always enjoy chef's demo and interactions and of course the fire exhibition! :) Service is good but really really slow, it took us over an hour to get our first real food items, so can definitely use some improvement. Our chef was very friendly and directly to the point, my rice was really delayed for some reason as well But overall, the ambiance is more live food performance with a round table set up. Been to many benihana over the years, definitely always a good experience and good to stop by here for special occasions! Also sign up for friends with benefits, they are actually a great loyalty program that worth the value

Luis C.

We came here on Thanksgiving and were greeted by a warm and welcome host that elevated our dinning experience. The waitstaff were attentive, polite, abd friendly. Our chef was entertaining, engaging, and cooked our food to perfection. The food was full of flavors, delicious, and well seasoned. We had a great dinning experience and will be back!

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Jacqueline N.

4 years ago

Great service from Gloria. Awesome vibes with a lot of new chefs and a amazing show. Benihana's Plum wine is for sure a go to. I will highly suggest getting a bottle from the bar while you wait for your seat. We were also seated before our reserved time. read more

Benihana - Plum Wine - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

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Lee C.

Hi Jacqueline, thank you for taking the time to provide us with a…

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Lisa C.

3 years ago

Chef Precious is amazing, the food has sooo much flavor, she was so entertaining and personable. When I come back I would definitely request her. Thank you Precious for making my family's bday special!!!! read more

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Amy K.

3 years ago

Nice menu. Our server was pleasant and informative. Celebrating my daughter's birthday. We have our own table for our party of seven.

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Support T.

3 years ago

Chef Aaron is the best! We always get the best service at this location. The food is always cooked well and the bartender Kristine is amazing read more

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Anthony P.

104

3 years ago

Raquel and Quail were awesome! Very entertaining presentation and prompt service. They helped with our 3 and 1 year and kept them entertained! read more

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Allesse C.

2 years ago

Wonderful dining experience!!! & I really appreciated our amazing cook Richard & service Brittany! The food was seasoned perfectly & Richard was very entertaining!! Brittney was super sweet & accommodating! We will be back! read more

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Lee C.

Allesse, we're thrilled to hear you had a wonderful experience!…

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Jacqueline D.

Elite 26

869

330

362

4 years ago

I decided to give Benihana another try, and fell in love again. The last Benihana I went to was in City of Industry and I had the worst experience. I came to this location a couple days after and the difference was night and day. First off, the old fashioned was made so well. And the interior of this location is so much cuter than the City of Industry one. They have a bar area for you to wait and an outdoor area as well (semi connected to the bar). I had originally made a reservation for 8:45pm, and came early to see if we could sit earlier. We were able to! (: (Apparently they're going through a chef shortage). Also the chef we got was so cool and funny (her name was Sara). She made my experience really great! read more

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Lee C.

Jacqueline, Our goal is to create great guest memories. We are…

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Courtney G.

3 years ago

Everything was amazing and Chef Precious put on a great show!! Great food and great laughs with her!!! read more

Benihana - Chef Precious showing us some love!! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

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Yulissa L.

123

2 years ago

Everything was amazing. Raquel was great! Definitely coming back. :) the food was delicious read more

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Bryan v.

3 years ago

Don't trust this place! Go anywhere else that you can. Despite having a reservation and showing up on time they told us there's a 25-60 minute wait?!? There's no excuse for this mismanagement, and we have an infant! read more

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Lee C.

Dear Bryan, thank you for taking the time to share your experience…

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Jesy S.

135

3 years ago

Just had a wonderful lunch to celebrate my husband's birthday. Our server Raquel was super sweet and very patient with our group's questions and requests. Her drink recommendations were on point as well! Chef Kelonnie was awesome! He was funny, entertaining and cooked up some great meals. The restaurant was clean and very modern. We will definitely be back at this location again. Thank you for the great experience and for making my husband's day so special! read more

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Junior M.

3 years ago

The chef Sara has great skills and made us all laugh! She was the best chef I've had serve us at Benihana. Isabela was a great waiter and on top of all the refills and any extra needs any of us needed. The food tasted great! This was a great night and good vibes all night! read more

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Rebecca L.

2 years ago

Food Service Ambiance was amazing!!! Chef Quill was amazing. The food was delicious and his skill on entertaining people of all ages is right on !!! Can't wait to go back and request for Chef Quill!!! Happy New Year read more

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Wes M.

3 years ago

We came in for a random weekday lunch. Everything was excellent during our visit. Alexa was an excellent server for us. And our chef, Maria, put on a great show even though it was just a couple people at our table. We will be back soon! read more

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Jayme N.

4 years ago

Unfortunately, this experience was not worth it! The chef was great but the manager, Natalie Balcaceres was awful and rude. We waiting over two hours for food. I talked to the manager regarding a birthday certificate and she was extremely rude. They would not accept it if it wasn't printed....which seems ridiculous to me. While I do understand reading the fine print regarding the birthday certificate (which feels like scamming customers ), I don't believe that Benihana would want to lose customers. We have been coming to Benihana for over 10 years. After this experience, I would not come back nor would I ever recommend this is as a place to celebrate. In regards to the service, we understand it's we are still in a pandemic and staffing storages are very challenging. The waitress and chef were great, but the manger was rude. It would seem to me that if you drove 30 mins to celebrate a birthday, that the Benihana family would want you to walk away with a great experience. Sadly, this was not our experience. read more

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Violet C.

172

2 years ago

Our server Joseph was greatttt! Big thumbs up and he told us all about the specials. Thank you

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Lee C.

Thanks for the awesome feedback, Violet! We’re thrilled to hear that…

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Daisee S.

3 years ago

Our go to location for Benihana dinner has always been Torrance, however due to a recent bad experience my family and I decided to try the Downey location and they did not disappoint! Bar and outdoor area looked nice and clean. The high ceilings made the restaurant feel spacious and not crowded like Torrance. Our reservations were for 7:15pm we were seated about 10-15 afterwards which is exceptional compared to Torrance where it usually takes 45mins plus. Our server's name was Selenia, her vibe was just great! Always smiling, it looked like she actually enjoyed being employed there which made us feel extremely welcomed. We were ready to order so she took our drink,appetizers & food order all together which to me is efficient as hell. I hate having to wait 10+ mins between orders. Drinks came out with our soups&salads (other servers helped) & appetizers right after... my Philadelphia roll was bomb and our soft shell crab was crispy and correct temp. Shortly after appetizers our chef came out, his name is Eli, another great employee who made us feel welcomed and not awkward at all. He put on a great show, definitely unique! Overall it was a good experience for us. We did go on a Monday at 7:15pm so it may be busier on weekends. read more

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David M.

2 years ago

I made a reservation a month prior to the dinner. When we got there, they said they were behind and I would have to wait 2 hours before being seated. What is the point of making a reservation there? We left. Benihanas is a joke. read more

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Lee C.

David, we're sorry to hear about the wait despite your reservation.…

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Ebony R.

166

4 years ago

Chris did an amazing job!! My family had a great experience!! The comedic humor and energy was very much appreciated. Thank you read more

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Carolyn H.

4 years ago

Benihana's in Downey,CA is the best place in town for delicious cuisine! The steak & hibachi chicken is out of this world! If you haven't tried the Downey location.....do it! They don't disappoint! The service is outstanding! The cooks are skilled with a side of "great personality "! Love this place and recommend it 100% Make it a date! read more

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Lee C.

Hi Carolyn, we’re thrilled to get this kind of feedback. Thank you…

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Stella M.

3 years ago

Great food, great service and a nice restaurant for a special occasion. Happy New Year!

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Christina L.

Elite 26

193

249

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6 years ago

This establishment did not want my business. I waited over 20 minutes on hold. This just seems unprofessional & rude. Were they placing customers on hold as they went fishing for the freshest lobster & shrimp possible? Guess I'll never know as I gave up on holding. Can't imagine what the service is like the restaurant once they reopen. This was on Thursday, October 8th, 2020 at 6:40pm. I even tried calling back, but decided to move on. read more

Benihana - 23 minute hold time. - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

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Rosa S.

3 years ago

Thank you, Chef Chris. We enjoyed it. The food was well cooked. Thanks for the entertainment.

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Michelle A.

3 years ago

Come in during lunch to celebrate our co-workers birthday. Aaron was really attentive. And had great service. Will definitely come back again during lunch. read more

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Michael W.

161

2 years ago

Raquel is an amazing waiter. Top Tier. We enjoyed the service. She was attentive to our request.

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Lee C.

Michael, thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that…

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Nikki L.

3 years ago

My hubby and I came to eat for a kidless date. We had great food and good convo! Maria was awesome and very entertaining!

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Afra G.

3 years ago

Service and food was amazing. Haroldi and Chef Steven were amazing and polite! We had a great Christmas lunch.

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Anne W.

3 years ago

Fun experience with the family. Great time. Good food. Great service. My server was great

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Sophia H.

3 years ago

Amazzzzzingggggg!!!! We had an amazing experience with our chef! Food is delicious as always when we come to this location read more

Benihana - Quail is dah boiiii - Sushi Bars Near Me - Downey, California

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Andrew S.

2 years ago

Wish I could put less than a star. I had a reservation for 7 and wasn't seated until 8:00, upon being seated It took another 20 minutes to get our drink orders in, another 10 minutes passes and they alert me that they're are out of the drink I requested. Received drinks and was never asked for refills the entirety of the night, we finally put in our orders and 45 minutes passes, finally at 9:30, after several of my table members and tables aside from us start asking when our chef would arrive a manager comes out and tells us that they are starting to "prep" our meals. 3 whole tables walk out after being in the restaurant for 2 and a half hours. No sorry, nothing. I was fully prepared to give them the benefit of the doubt but the waitress responded to another family's question with "this is how it is here" so I instantly cancelled my meals. Will never be back again, don't bother responding to this, just want to warn other potential patrons to avoid this place. read more

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Lee C.

Hi Andrew, we are truly sorry to hear about your disappointing…

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Nadine C.

193

4 years ago

Prices do not match with the quality of customer service at this branch. Made a 7 pm reservation and was not sat until 8:15 pm. We don't mind waiting but don't guarantee us a table when you can't even let us know another reason other than "We're cleaning the tables". This is unacceptable especially when we have senior citizens with us. Do not recommend this location and needs better management, especially STAFF. Food was decent, as in I'm so hungry that this will suffice. We all got the 5-6 course meals, which included soup, salad, shrimp appetizer, entree, and ice cream. Alcoholic drinks were decent as well, came 15 minutes after we ordered. Soup tasted like ramen cup soup and salad was not fresh but dressing was okay. For the shrimp appetizer, we literally only got 3 pieces EACH? And my friend didn't even get any shrimp since chef did not count right, despite all of us getting 5-6 courses meals. Fried rice had so much butter, it was disgusting. I love their garlic butter, but not when the chef puts literal SCOOPS of it in each food. I got the MEDIUMS filet mignon and chef cooked me medium RARE? Please don't become a chef if you don't know the difference. It was a shame that our food also got cold quickly because of the grill's fans. Overall, I would NOT recommend this location. I'd seriously suggest just driving 20-30 mins extra to the Torrance location or Los Angeles branches. read more

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Lee C.

Nadine, thank you for sharing your review. We understand your…

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David l.

2 years ago

Very welcoming we were seated fast and were treated well. The food was amazing and the scenery was nice . Would definitely come back again. Heidi was great . read more

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Lee C.

David, thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that…

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Olga V.

3 years ago

We had dinner reservations at 730pm. We were sat waited for 30 mins for just regular drinks. 930pm and we still haven't seen our chef. Waiter wasn't friendly either. The wait is ridiculous!!! We ended up paying for our drinks and walking out. Everyone at the table was upset. Never coming back to this location. It wasn't the first time we waited long here but that was ridiculous!!! read more

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Lee C.

Olga, thank you for leaving your feedback. We strive incredibly hard…

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Summer A.

2 years ago

Tonight I came in with my family, and we come to Benihana's often. This evening was by far the best experience we've ever had and it was all because of our chef, Kelonnie. The service was above and beyond, and not only did his energy and personality make our experience entertaining and fun, he apologized for the longer wait time. It was worth the wait because our entrees were prepared the best we've ever had. I will definitely come back and request him as our chef, again. The entire evening was memorable and the food was delicious. Thank you, Kelonnie! read more

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Lee C.

Thanks, Summer! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic…

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Marlon A.

3 years ago

Hostess: Mia Waiter: Andrew Cook: Hekttor The wait was atrocious, waiting an additional 30 min past a reservation time is horrendous. That being said, after being seated it went so overwhelmingly great! The service was superb, Andrew, and his temporary stand in while he was at break, were phenomenal, they never allowed our cups to remain empty, they brought the rice with incredible timing, and Hekttor delivered! That is an understatement, his energy was contagious, we were all feeling it! It was so exciting to see him flip and tap away and our birthday girl had a blast. read more

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Lee C.

Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review about our…

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Annie B.

Elite 26

429

933

3198

7 years ago

I haven't never did takeout at Benihana, due to the coronavirus it was takeout only. Since it was my birthday #april19 I decided to take a chance on Benihana for my birthday meal. The food was pretty tasty, the portions were rather small for the amount I paid for the meal. I will dine in once this pandemics over..... read more

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Lee C.

Annie, we apologize for your experience. Your feedback helps us to…

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Michael F.

3 years ago

Visited here for my nieces birthday & had a GREAT time. The staff was super FRIENDLY & made my niece feel special for her birthday! Definitely a WELCOMING experience! read more

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Frances M.

146

3 years ago

Stephany is very, polite, attentive, and provided great service. We recommend to ask for Stephany when you come to Benihana.

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Lorie L.

2 years ago

The food was delicious and our chef, Steven, was very nice and entertaining. My server, Raquel, was so polite and very helpful with the menu. I really enjoyed the experience and I will definitely be back again. read more

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Lee C.

Thanks for your fantastic review, Lorie! We're thrilled to hear you…

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Hotaru Is My I.

2 years ago

Chef Quail was really great at creating a welcoming atmosphere. Food was great and cooked well. Service was quick and easy. Our waiters and Heidi were very attentive and pleased to attend us! read more

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Page 29 of 110

8801 Apollo Way
Downey, CA 90242
Directions
(562) 372-9210
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.benihana.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Benihana open?

Benihana opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Benihana opens at 10:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Benihana close?

Benihana closes at 11:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Benihana closes at 12:00 AM (Next day) on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 11:00 PMFri 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)Sat 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)Sun 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Benihana take credit cards?

Yes, Benihana takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Benihana have catering options?

Yes, Benihana does have catering options.

Does Benihana have a happy hour?

Yes, Benihana has a happy hour.

Does Benihana serve alcohol?

Yes, Benihana serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Benihana allow dogs?

Yes, Benihana allows dogs.

Does Benihana have TVs?

Yes, Benihana has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Benihana have bike parking?

Yes, Benihana has bike parking.

Does Benihana have outdoor seating?

Yes, Benihana has outdoor seating options.

Does Benihana have parking?

Yes, Benihana has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Benihana have free WiFi?

Yes, Benihana has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Make your next night out special at Benihana Downey. Located in The Promenade at Downey on Apollo Way, we are a great destination for "dinner and a movie" at the nearby Cinemark or a delicious lunch break near Kaiser Permanente. Watch our chefs dazzle you with fresh hibachi steak, seafood, and premium Wagyu prepared tableside. Craving sushi? Grab a seat at our Sushi Bar, or unwind in our Cocktail Lounge with a signature Benihana Punch and our Weekday Happy Hour. Hosting a celebration? Our private and semi-private dining rooms offer an exclusive setting for groups, or let us cater your event. We feature a Kabuki Kids menu and full wheelchair accessibility.

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Ask the Community - Benihana

Do they serve Salmon?

Yes the do

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What is the squealing sound at the bar... constant squealing? wind whistling? it's annoying asf It's not bar noise, ambient or otherwise

Loud. People laugh. A bit noisy.

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How much is the price per person?

You will order what you want do that price us going to vary. You are probably looking on the high side like 20-25 dollars but for the adventure and the show and don't forget the food. Money well worth it

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Is the food prepared at the table when you choose outdoor seating? Or is the food just brought to you prepared?

No, the food is not teppanyaki style if choosing outdoor seating.

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How many people can fit in one table?

I believe it's 8 people.

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Is it possible to have the chili shrimp roll made with no rice?

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Can you bring a birthday cake?

Yes

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What's the usual cost for 2 people?

It depends on what you order. For the best budget Beni experience come in during lunch...lunch…

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What are considered the lunch hours at this location!?

11am -3 pm

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How long is the wait time without a reservation?

About a day and a half

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Review Highlights - Benihana

“Our chef Precious was hilarious during the show, and was also attentive making sure we were happy with our food.”

Mentioned in 77 reviews

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Hanami Teppanyaki Grill

I ordered the fillet and jumbo shrimp plate and upgraded with chicken fried rice and garlic…read morenoodles. I wanted to try a lot of things she did not want to waste of space for the veggies although they did look good. I ordered the chili oil and the garlic butter. The garlic butter easily was shared between the fillet and the shrimp adding a nice umami flavor. The garlic oil was smoky and not too hot. The chicken fried rice in my opinion was better than Benihana's or just as good. Although the garlic noodles were a little sweet from my liking, I was evil easily able to alter them to something. I enjoyed with some chili oil and soy sauce. It tone down the sweet. Simple, clean decor. Several ways to see the menu on the wall LCD or by the counter. The service was very good, quick and kind. The quality of the product was very good. The fillet almost melted in your mouth, and the shrimp was cooked well without being rubbery. I spent $52 here to upgrade two chicken fried rice and garlic noodles. They have plenty of parking a huge parking lot, limited seating, maybe eight tables or so, mostly four tops.

This place is quite small but it can hold a group of 6,7 people if it is not busy…read more The service was ok. Just know it takes about 30-45 minutes to get your food. The food is actually really really flavorful the lobster I had was very tender and juicy and the jumbo shrimp were a good l size. I would have ordered the chowmein though instead of the rice because the chowmein was way better! After discussing with the family we enjoyed it but it is 4 stars since it does take quite a while to have your meal and the customer service could be better. The food itself carries this place but 5 stars if they can improve service!

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Tokyo Hibachi

3.9(601 reviews)

4.7 mi

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Our first visit here with my two kids was such a great experience! We ordered the ribeye, shrimp,…read morefried rice, and baked mussels--everything was full of flavor. Honestly, we enjoyed the food much more than Benihana! The chef was so nice and put on a great show. My kids loved it! The service was wonderful, too. Someone even checked on us after our meal to make sure everything went well, and they gave the kids mochi, which was such a sweet touch. Highly recommend--we'll definitely be back! Five stars from my kids for the ice cream!

It had been decades since I dined at TH. I did not recall dining teppanyaki style when I was a…read moreteenager. Similar to Benihana's, this dinner with a show was fun. Simon was both funny and skilled with a knife, etc. The staff was attentive and later sang to celebrate my daughter's bday.

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ArigatoBato hibachi Japanese grill

4.4(232 reviews)

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I was very upset with my last visit but I went to try it again recently and it was amazing. i love…read moretheir food especially the 3 protein fried rice! highly recommend.

Service is exceptional! I don't know the name of the woman who took our order, but she was the…read moresweetest. It was our first time, and she gave great recommendations based on what we liked. I ordered the two-protein plate with chicken and shrimp, plus veggies ($29). It comes with a side salad and your choice of white rice or fried rice. They also have a variety of sauces to choose from. The chicken and shrimp were really good. Well seasoned and flavorful. The soy sauce (I'm assuming) was a bit too salty for my taste, but overall I enjoyed my meal. They do offer lunch specials, and I'll definitely be back to try those. The restaurant is well maintained, with a clean dining area and bathroom.

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Amazing experience at Tokyo Garden! The customer service was outstanding, and our server, Samuel,…read morewas super attentive. Our food came out quickly, and everything tasted amazing and, most importantly, fresh! Definitely a 10/10 recommend for the Yellowtail Sunrise and Geisha Roll. Came for the food, stayed for the music. Definitely coming back!

We had the best mommy-daughter lunch at Tokyo Garden! We ordered the cucumber salad, short ribs,…read moreand a Crunch Roll, and everything was awesome! The food was delicious, the service was fast, and our server John was amazing. Thank you, John, for making our mommy-daughter lunch so perfect! Great food and even better service. We'll definitely be back!

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Kobe Steakhouse & Lounge

3.6(1.1k reviews)

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Easy weekend buffet eats…read more Went for Father's Day for their buffet and Beatles cover band. Was a fun time and good music. I'd say most of the buffet was your typical buffet food and quality. However two things stand out: - they teppanyaki-style steak made to order - their dessert selection is legit The steak was really good and you can just keep coming back for more. The dessert spread was impressive for the typical buffet. The cheesecake, tiramisu, and crème brûlée were all really really good. Think this is a good spot for meals with the fam - would be back for those occasions.

First off, we made a saturday reservation around 5pm, it wasn't too packed yet. Parking was very…read moreeasy, they have a big lot for the restaurant. We came here to celebrate a birthday, since there are 8 of us, we were able to get a teppanyaki table all to ourselves. The service and the staff were very attentive. Our chef was very entertaining. FOOD: -Crab Wontons : very delicious -Kobe fried rice: very delicious, a bit of the salty side due to too much soy sauce but it's still good -Swordfish - this was surpringly VERY GOOD, texture and flavor was very good - The veggies and the steaks were very very salty. The chef put soy sauce on EVERYTHING even my steaks. You should never add soy sauce to the steaks. - Provided a complimentary bday treat. Unfortunately, 3 of us came home mildly sick, I got the worst of it for the next 24 hours. Nothing serious though.

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Teppanyaki-style cuisine

Bachi Yaki

3.7(129 reviews)

1.8 mi

Great food and service. Their location in bellflower was closed and they were able to quickly move…read moremy order to a different location.

Fire great service and bomb bachi in the paramount good customer service amazing sea food plateread more

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New York steak plate

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4.1(64 reviews)

1.5 mi

Discounts available

Locally owned & operated

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Ehhh, better spots out there the rice was extremely mushy and sticky and the diablo sauce didn't…read moretaste like diablo sauce. The yum yum sauce also had a terrible flavor. Find another spot if you want to enjoy your meal.

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Our food was amazing and fresh and tasty

Mr Hibachi LA

3.9(21 reviews)

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Spotted this food truck on my way home. First impression definitely pricey but is it worth your…read moredollar. The answer is definitely yes! Portions are huge. Orders the NY steak med rare and it was cooked to perfection. Chicken seasoned just right. The fried rice and veggies also tasted great. Definitely worth your dollar, you can't put a price on quality.

Very pricey and food not that great. Waited too long for food even after it was phone orderedread more

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Habachihana Grill

4.0(613 reviews)

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I had Visited the other night for my first time with a few friends and was very pleased and…read moreexceeded our expectations. The front hostess, Andrea had guided us and recommended some fye choices. Let me tell you, DID NOT DISAPPOINT Can't wait for my next visit!!

First time at Habachihana Grill and we were very impressed! The New York steak bowl and chicken…read morebowl were both phenomenal. The sauces are also delicious and add an extra touch of flavor, though the food is great on its own. Lizette at the register was super friendly and welcoming, and the seating area has a really nice vibe. Great food, great service, and a great overall experience. Highly recommend--we'll definitely be back!

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Ichiban Sushi

3.4(481 reviews)

1.3 mi

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Newest menu as of 6/4/26

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Bill R.

3 years ago

From the moment I stepped into Benihana, the air was filled with a palpable excitement and the inviting aromas of Japanese cuisine being prepared. The ambiance was lively and entertaining, a testament to its renowned teppanyaki dining experience. The menu offered a diverse array of options, ranging from sushi to a variety of meat and seafood prepared on the teppanyaki grill. To experience the essence of Benihana's offerings, I chose the Hibachi Steak, the Hibachi Chicken, and a selection of their sushi. The service was outstanding, marked by friendly and engaging chefs who not only showcased their culinary skills but also created an entertaining dining experience with their vibrant and interactive cooking show. The food was served fresh off the grill, the presentation was impeccable, and each dish was a visual delight. The Hibachi Steak was a flavorful marvel, cooked to perfection with a beautiful sear, locking in the juices and flavors. The Hibachi Chicken was tender and well-seasoned, complemented by the accompanying vegetables and dipping sauces. The sushi was a fresh and delightful journey through textures and flavors, with each piece crafted with precision. Regarding value, the pricing at Benihana is on the higher end, reflecting not just the quality of the ingredients but also the unique and engaging dining experience. The portions were generous, and the overall experience provided good value for the price, offering a balanced and rewarding dining proposition. The atmosphere within Benihana was vibrant and welcoming, with clean and well-organized seating arrangements allowing for optimal viewing of the teppanyaki performance. The entertaining and interactive environment created a unique and memorable dining experience, elevating it beyond a mere meal. The availability of nutritional information and diverse menu options allowed patrons to make informed and varied choices, accommodating a range of dietary preferences and needs. In conclusion, my visit to Benihana was an exhilarating blend of culinary artistry and entertainment, encapsulated in a warm and lively atmosphere. The combination of high-quality cuisine, engaging chefs, and a unique dining experience made it a memorable occasion. While the pricing is premium, the value derived from the overall experience justifies the expenditure. I would rate Benihana a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to anyone looking for a dining experience that's out of the ordinary. read more

Daisy S.

122

1 year ago

I visited this Benihana location on May 30 for a special celebration with a large party. We had a reservation, yet the wait was incredibly long. We ended up being there for nearly three hours, which was extremely frustrating and disappointing. I try to be understanding, especially during busy times, but this experience was beyond excessive. This was my second time at Benihana. The first time, years ago at a different location (I wish I remembered which one), I had a fantastic experience. I ordered the Hibachi Salmon back then and it was incredible, especially the avocado tartar sauce, which made the dish stand out. That memory made me excited to order it again this time. Unfortunately, the experience was nothing like before. Our waitress (I believe her name was Jasmine, per the receipt) took our orders, and eventually our chef arrived. He was great, honestly the highlight of the night. However, it took about an hour after ordering for us to receive our food. When my salmon came, it was missing the avocado tartar sauce. I immediately requested it from our waitress, but she was hardly around and very difficult to flag down. I sat there waiting for over 30 minutes, everyone else had already finished their meals and were ordering ice cream. When I asked about the tartar sauce again, she finally told me that the kitchen didn't have any and that my order for it had never been placed. That was incredibly frustrating. If they had informed me earlier that the tartar sauce wasn't available, I could've ordered something else or at least eaten with everyone else instead of waiting around. I usually don't complain, I've worked in food service and customer-facing jobs, so I know how things can go. But this was handled very poorly. It wasn't just about the missing sauce, it was about the lack of communication and courtesy. The situation was avoidable and mishandled from the start. To add to it all, the ambience was chaotic. I understand it was a busy night with many graduation celebrations, but the whole place felt disorganized and unwelcoming. Overall, this location left a very negative impression. While the chef was great and the food was good, the service, communication, and overall experience were disappointing. I wouldn't recommend this location, do yourself a favor and try a different one. read more

Llama C.

3 years ago

I had high hopes for a memorable Valentine's Day dinner at Benihana Hibachi and Grill, but unfortunately, the experience fell far short of expectations. Firstly, our reservations were for 5:15, but we weren't seated until 5:50. The delayed seating set the tone for the evening, and it only went downhill from there. The ambiance was overstimulating, thanks to the lack of coordination among the staff and excessively loud music, making it difficult to enjoy a romantic atmosphere. Once seated, we were left waiting for both a chef and a waiter for over 25 minutes. When the waitress finally arrived, we were immediately expected to have our entire order ready, despite being handed an incomplete menu with only main entrees. It took a request for a second menu, and even then, we were told they didn't have any - a claim that was contradicted by the fact that we had seen some in the lobby. Ordering proved to be a challenge, as we had to follow up for every appetizer and side dish. Unfortunately, the side dishes arrived after our main courses had already been prepared. To make matters worse, the quality of the side dishes was abysmal. The crispy rice tuna was rubbery with an offputting aftertaste, the Las Vegas roll was uninspired and rolled in stale bread crumbs, and the chili shrimp roll tasted oddly like candy. Regrettably, we had to send some dishes back, a rare move for me. Our chef's appearance and performance were equally disappointing. His apron was filthy, and he was uncoordinated throughout the entire cooking process. He forgot utensils, flung rice into my drink, and made a mess with ingredients. The fried rice was bland, with burnt egg overpowering any semblance of flavor. His hibachi "tricks" were a disaster - the egg roll simply rolled off the table, and the onion volcano was a feeble attempt, burning for a mere 10 seconds. To top it off, the chef got into an argument with another patron over a simple request for garlic butter on the steak, a standard practice. It left a sour taste in our mouths, both figuratively and literally. Ultimately, the $165 bill felt like a slap in the face for a night that left us disappointed, hungry, and regretting our decision to celebrate Valentine's Day at Benihana Hibachi and Grill. read more

Yoana B.

3 years ago

Dear Benihana Team, I wanted to share my recent dining experience at your Downey, CA location, and I must say it was far from satisfactory. Benihana has been a cherished restaurant for my family, especially my son, who has been a fan of your chicken fried rice since he was a baby. However, our visit tonight left us extremely disappointed. We had reservations for 8:15 pm, made through OpenTable, and had mentioned that we were there to celebrate my son's birthday. The initial check-in process was acceptable, taking less than 15 minutes to seat us. Our waitress introduced herself promptly, took our drink order, and congratulated my son on his birthday. She then proceeded to take our food orders, and everything seemed fine until the salad course. The time it took from the waitress bringing out the salad to the chef's arrival at our table was an excruciating 45 minutes. My daughter was so exhausted from the wait that she was falling asleep at the table. The waitress apologized but also mentioned that we shouldn't complain yet as it hadn't been long enough. We waited an additional 15 minutes, but still, there was no sign of the chef. At that point, I had to approach the manager, and I was able to provide a time-stamped picture as evidence, showing that 45 minutes had passed since our order was taken. This is unusual, as I've dined at Benihanas in various states and have never experienced such lengthy delays. The manager verified the situation, apologized, and took action to expedite our order. Finally, the chef arrived 5 minutes later, visibly sensing our frustration from the extended wait. Despite the delay, she did her best to put on a great dinner show. However, my son never received the customary birthday song from the staff, unlike the other tables. Our waitress explained that it was slow, and her shift had been cut early, which left us feeling neglected and overlooked. This experience was far from the usual high standards I've come to expect from Benihana. It saddens me to see this once-excellent establishment in Downey becoming mediocre. I hope you can address these issues to ensure that future diners do not encounter such disappointments. read more

Warren M.

360

2 years ago

After 8 months we have returned to Benihana's in Downey. We have been regulars at this establishment since it opened. We are very familiar with the GM(Oscar) who I might add was outstanding as a Chef. But our recent visits have not been very eventful, you can label them mostly as terrible. Tonight was one of those visits. For the last 15 to 20 years and definitely since this place opened it's doors I have eaten the same meal each and every visit. Tonight as always I ordered spicy chicken fried rice with shrimp. When our Chef came out, he reviewed everyone's order before cooking. Derrick prepared nine orders of chicken fried rice and served everyone, I reminded Derrick that my fried rice was supposed to be "spicy". Derrick replied That he knows, "waiting on the hot sauce for my rice". Derrick continued cooking when I asked again about my spicy fried rice, Derrick stated again "waiting on the hot sauce. After several more minutes passed Derrick left the table and retrieved the hot sauce. Now all this time I am not eating my rice I am waiting for Derrick to complete my rice.(now it is cold) Derrick completed everyone's food items and began to clean the grill area and leave. Again I asked what about my rice, Derrick Replied I got you some hot sauce for your rice. My wife then challenged Derrick to prepare the rice like it was supposed to be prepared, Derrick poured my rice on the grill poured the hot sauce over my rice dished it back up and left. He was very rude. Now while I am sitting waiting all of my food is now cold, I then asked for the manager. A attempt was made to warm my food, but after this experience my wife and I paid the bill and just left. With food and drinks we normally spend $300. I am really debating on returning to Benihanas again, especially this one, the service has really declined. Benihanas used to be our special place, but not anymore. Very disappointed!!! read more

Mike J.

10 years ago

Well this I would have to say was a great night!!!! Hands down . Benihanas I've been going since I was little. I've never seen a great show like this one. [CHEF LAURENCE] WOW He first came out told us about the different types of sauces they made i know what they are but its nice to know that a Chef know his stuff. Chef Laurence made sure are order was completely right Laurence was on top of the ball. He busted his rap, did his tricks, he made sure that the kids were entertained you can tell that Laurence takes great pride in his job and cooking, is volcano with spectacular. He took out his little light turned it on where it was blinking red, also his big lighter that was pretty cool too. He's sang his song and made sure that the kids all sang too. The only bad thing is Laurence was harassed by one of the guest her name was Teresa I only remember it because her friends kept saying stop. She kept complaining the whole time Chef Laurence kept his cool had a smile on. She wanted done a certain way she kept bugging and bugging so Chef Laurence said okay so he put a little oil down for her salmon to make it crispy then he steamed it for her as she asked. I felt really bad for Laurence for the way that he was treated. As he left he asked us he asked if everything was okay and everyone said yes the food was delicious. The bad thing was as he was leaving the lady with the salmon that kept complaining she said watch I'm going to Yelp and try to get some free stuff as she leaned over to her friend she didn't know that I could hear I just wanted to get the record straight that Chef Laurence did a great job, and I will be back to see him once again I highly recommend him good luck on Hell's Kitchen. BIG GUY read more

Benny S.

7 years ago

My lady took me in for our anniversary. I never leave reviews but we had the best time. Not much of a wait we were out side talking and this big guy was walking up with his box of some sort. He smiled and said "welcome welcome welcome" I got up and helped him with the door he was like " hope you have a great show thanks again" We got seated with a few other people celebrating a birthday. Kind of strange to be with other people you don't know, but it was cool the girl serving us was real pleasant I wish I remembered her name. We both got filet mignon medium well. A few minutes later that same big guy came out Steve Aka (Big Onion) He walked up and said " I know you " and laughed he passed out the dipping sauces saying " Thank you both for sharing your time with me and being the best door man customer I have ever had" This guy was funny! When it came time for food ? Let me tell you he can cook! I asked what he recommended for how the filet was cooked we both had never had them. Sorry we ghetto ! He said if your open to try my way I got you ! So he made this medium rare melt in your mouth piece of meat we both loved. He told us next time you come in ask for me and order a Chato or something. We live on a budget so we can't do this too much. His onion trick had a little problem but he fixed it and it was cool ! Saying they must have sent in the onions from China! He was good when it came time to go both sides tried to tip him and he looked at us both and said please put that away I got more enjoyment with your company and letting me cook for you. This guy was the perfect fit to complete our special day ! Thanks Onion Rice Rice Baby ! read more

Karl T.

2 years ago

We had a reservation for 8. You'd think that meant we'd actually get a table at some point, but nah--this place operates in a different dimension where time and logic don't exist. We checked in, and instead of seating us, they just stared at us like we had wandered into the wrong building. No "Welcome," no "It'll be a few minutes"--just blank stares like NPCs waiting for a side quest. Twenty minutes later, we finally asked what was up, and that's when they hit us with the plot twist: "Oh yeah, you actually have to wait another hour." What?? So at what point were they planning on telling us that? After we grew old waiting by the entrance? It's like booking a hotel, showing up, and the front desk just silently watching you stand there like an idiot. And let's talk about the cast of extras they had working. There were so many employees just standing around, doing nothing but staring at us like we were some kind of new species. Not seating people, not cleaning tables--just existing. At one point, I was convinced they were just there for decoration. How do you have this many workers and still run the place like a failing group project? The inside looked like a high school cafeteria that lost its funding. Portable tables with wheels (why??), dirty dishes stacked everywhere, and a general vibe of "we weren't expecting guests today." We didn't even bother sticking around to find out if the food was as bad as the service. We walked out, and honestly, that was the best meal decision of the night. If you like being ignored and watching chaos unfold in real-time, this place is for you. Otherwise, run. read more

Alex J.

2 years ago

A Thrilling Culinary Adventure at Benihana Step into a world of sizzling spectacle and vibrant flavors at Benihana in Torrance. This bustling haven masterfully balances the art of entertainment with culinary finesse. From the moment we stepped in, the inviting aroma of grilled perfection set the stage for an unforgettable family evening. The culinary highlight? The CHICKEN & SHRIMP Hibachi--a tantalizing duet of tender chicken breast and succulent shrimp, grilled to perfection before our eyes. Complementing this was a delightful selection of sushi rolls, a true testament to the restaurant's mastery of Japanese cuisine. The Blue Ocean, a tropical blend featuring Malibu Rum, was nothing short of a liquid paradise. Despite the moderate hum of activity, the atmosphere remained welcoming, catering effortlessly to families with children. This is undeniably one of the most kid-friendly dining spots, where laughter and joy seem to flow as freely as the beverages. A significant part of this experience was the remarkable team. Every individual radiated professionalism and warmth, ensuring every detail of our visit was flawless. The manager's outstanding personality and ever-present smile amplified the already vibrant energy of the place. Parking woes? Not here. The ample free street parking added to the seamless convenience of our visit. Benihana isn't just a restaurant--it's a vibrant culinary show, a destination where taste and entertainment collide. For families, foodies, or anyone in search of an electrifying dining experience, this spot in Torrance is a must-visit gem! read more

Kalina M.

258

107

177

2 years ago

During my recent visit to Benihana, I encountered a few challenges that impacted my overall experience. Despite my generally positive outlook and honesty in reviews, this visit was one of the few where I have some criticisms to share. Initially, the arrival and seating process went smoothly. I provided my name and the number of people in my party, and we were promptly led to our designated area. The server was professional, attentive, and helpful, which set a good tone for my first visit to any Benihana. We began our five-course meal without any issues, and everything seemed to be going well. However, during the meal, I discovered a hair in my food. While I understood that such things can happen, it was surprising. I mentioned it to someone at my table, and we laughed it off, continuing to enjoy the meal. About 20 minutes later, while watching our chef prepare the food--who was excellent at entertaining my child--we found a second hair. One of my dining companions was quite upset, but we chose to overlook it. Unfortunately, when a third hair appeared in our food, my companion felt compelled to speak to our waitress about the issue. While a single incident could be dismissed and even two may be considered unfortunate, three instances of finding hair in our meals was too much to overlook. This experience was disappointing for my first visit to Benihana, especially given the positive feedback I've received about the restaurant from others. It's unfortunate that my experience did not reflect the renowned quality associated with this establishment. read more

Jed D.

662

122

516

1 year ago

Birthday Feast Mode: Activated at Benihana Downey! I celebrated my 48th birthday at Benihana in Downey, and it couldn't have been more perfect. From the moment we sat down around the hibachi table, the night was filled with laughter, incredible food, and non-stop fun. A huge thank you to my husband Richard for planning such a wonderful evening, and to my cousin Christine, her husband Steven, and my bestie Allie for being there to celebrate--it truly made the night unforgettable. Special shoutouts to the amazing Benihana team: * Chef Carlos - the king of the hibachi show! He kept us entertained while serving up some of the best food I've had in a long time. The knife tricks, the sizzle, the volcano onion... all done with such energy and skill. * Heidi, our waitress - attentive, warm, and made sure we had everything we needed. Her timing was perfect and she kept the good vibes flowing. * Cameron, the bartender - a true cocktail wizard. He kept the drinks fun, strong, and celebratory. I don't know how I managed to eat that much food (plus dessert and drinks), but every bite was worth it. The atmosphere was lively, the service was top-notch, and the love I felt around the table made this birthday one to remember. Thank you, Benihana Downey, for making 48 feel special, delicious, and full of joy. I'll definitely be back! read more

Dan S.

1 year ago

How this place is still open is beyond me. They tried to force me to pay before receiving my food (I ordered at a table to dine in) because they profiled me and didn't believe I would pay (I am the type to overtip... not refuse to pay?) that was my first encounter here and it's happened 3 times. I've never given them any reason to profile me like this as I'm very friendly and have deep pockets. I was so disgusted with this behavior. I'm a frequent customer at other locations and have never experienced that let alone 3 times. The female manager is the rudest human being I've ever encountered. I watched her YELL at the hostess who just walked up to the front because she didn't want her standing next to her then proceed to flirt with multiple young boys who approached her. The girl who cooks by the front tables threw food at us multiple times!!!! it was super weird. We thought it was a child until my husband caught her. The cooks are also drunk and ours REAKED of alcohol. I know someone who works here who said they keep alcohol in their kitchen so they have "fun" during the shifts. The food is DELICIOUS but the staff is disturbingly repulsive... how they are all employed is beyond me but they definitely enable each other and don't care about their customers. I'm shocked they're still open read more

ny n.

3 years ago

My recent visit to Benihana Downey left me disappointed, especially when I compare it to the fond memories I have of the 90s. Unfortunately, the experience fell short in several ways. The prices seemed quite high for what we received, and the food quality left much to be desired, akin to some of the least favorable experiences I've had at Denny's. One of the key letdowns was the teppanyaki chef's performance. Instead of an expert, it felt like an untrained individual rushing to prepare the dishes as quickly as possible, devoid of the captivating entertainment that used to be a hallmark of Benihana. I also noticed a lack of flavor in the dishes; they were poorly seasoned. The creamy white sauce that I cherished from my childhood was nowhere to be found, and the ginger soy sauce was also missing. This stark difference from what I remembered was disheartening. To make matters worse, the entire meal for my family ended up costing over $350. I couldn't help but feel embarrassed sharing this nostalgia-filled outing with them, as Benihana Downey was far from the establishment I once adored. It's safe to say that this visit was one of the worst dining experiences I've had in recent memory. Avoid this place at all cost.. read more

Rosalind T.

1 year ago

As someone who has enjoyed dining at Benihana for over 25 years, I have never encountered an experience as poor as this one. From start to finish, the service was unacceptable. The staff was not only inefficient and inattentive but also came across as rude and unprofessional. Most concerning was an incident involving the cook, SARA, who overheard a private conversation between my friend and me regarding the subpar service we had received from our waitress. Without provocation, she confronted us and told us to "watch our vibe"--despite the fact that we were speaking calmly, without cursing or disrespect. This level of unprofessionalism was shocking and completely inappropriate. We ultimately chose to leave the restaurant. The manager on duty, who mentioned he was only filling in and that this was not his usual location, was visibly embarrassed by the situation and offered multiple apologies. I also want to be transparent and acknowledge that a previous positive review I left was written in exchange for complimentary food and appetizers. I now realize that this was not reflective of the true standard of this location, which unfortunately appears to be consistently lacking. read more

Akemi T.

151

2 years ago

Title: An Unforgettable Experience with Chef Precious at Benihana! If you're looking for a dining experience that will leave you absolutely enchanted, look no further than Benihana with Chef Precious! From the moment we sat down, we knew we were in for something special. Chef Precious brought a vibrant energy to the table, captivating our group with her culinary skills and engaging personality. The way she prepared our seafood, rice, and vegetables was nothing short of magic. Each bite was perfectly seasoned, so much so that I completely forgot about the sauces! The flavors were rich and harmonious, showcasing her incredible talent and attention to detail. Not only was the food phenomenal, but Chef Precious also made the experience interactive and fun. Her tricks and jokes kept us entertained while we watched her work her culinary wonders. It was more than just a meal; it felt like a celebration! If you get the chance to dine at Benihana, make sure to request Chef Precious. You won't regret it! Her passion and skill will make your meal unforgettable. Thank you, Chef Precious, for an amazing evening! read more

Audelia C.

4 years ago

my husband and i came over on 2/18/23 for our valentine dinner, our reservation was at 6:45, didn't get sited till almost 8, first it was tool cold the main door was open and they didn't want to close it, after taking our drink orders, it took another hour or so to finally get a cook... we were the last to be served, so we got the less portions??? my husband only got 3 or 4 pieces of zucchini and some onions, i got more onions as well, we had order the all sea food plate of course the most expensive one, after getting all of our very small portions, the cook forgot our scallops... my husband ask for them, i really didn't want them anymore, everyone had already finish their dinner, the cook looked at the order and realized that it was correct, he run to go get them, but that time it was toooooo late, i asked if i could have some steam rice and h said that i had already got my smallest portion of fried rice, he could had charge for steam rice if that's was too much to make a customer happy, will not come back for sure very bad experience... MR. and Mrs. Chadwick read more

Sabrinaa L.

10 years ago

I wish 0 stars was an option...DO NOT EAT HERE!!!!! Please save your money and go elsewhere. Worst experience EVER!!! FIRST the hosteses have bad service and attitudes. Second our waitress took 30 min to bring out our drinks which was 2 water 4 Pepsi. We asked for soy sauce took 10 min we fished our food before it got to the table. THIRD IS THE BEST after being sitted for 1hour they come to tell us there's no rice. What worse is that they said they ran out of rice but our chef said that they just didn't want to cook anymore rice.like what the fuck. On top of that it wasn't even our waitress that came to tell us she sent another waiter and he was like so what are you staying or leaving, I gave him a look and said that that was no way to talk to consumers on top of the bad service you're kicking us out. It's been 1:30min and my drink is empty and I asked for a refill and nothing yet. It's sad to know that we finally got a benihanna near by and it's horribly managed and poor service specially when I've been coming to benihanna for over 15 yrs . read more

Luis M.

121

1 year ago

5 Stars - Exceptional Experience Thanks to Nick and the Benihana Team! We had a reservation at Benihana and arrived about 5 to 10 minutes before closing. Honestly, we were a little worried about being too late -- but the moment we walked in, Nick (the manager) and the entire staff made us feel incredibly welcome. Nick was absolutely amazing! Despite it being the end of the night, there was zero attitude or rush. He greeted us with warmth and made sure we were seated and comfortable, and the whole team followed his lead. The atmosphere felt relaxed, and we were truly able to enjoy our meal without any pressure. Throughout dinner, the service was attentive, the food was excellent as always, and everyone made sure we had everything we needed. It's rare to experience this kind of hospitality, especially so close to closing time. Nick, thank you for your outstanding service and for going above and beyond. We'll absolutely be back -- not just for the food, but for the way you made us feel. Highly recommend this location! read more

Linda C.

2 months ago

This is the second time I come and the experience here is terrible. First the server was in the worst mood and answering snotty. The salads were served with no forks and to had to wait for forks. Then the rice came after the food. Slightly warm. Then the food was served no sauces. Had to ask for the sauces. Then the worst was that they forgot one of our plates. Once they cooked everyone's food they had to go get his food to cook it. So he ate after all of us. Manager did take off it off the bill but because we complained. They never offered it. The server just said that he did get his food. Then at the end they said since we did power lunch we couldnt use the coupon from friends and benefits A reward they offer. No where on the website does it say you cant us at lunch. It does say we can use anytime. Won't be coming back to this Benihanas!!!! This should be a high end restaurant and they treat me better at Chilis. Improve on customer service plus no garlic butter in lunch. read more

Derek A.

198

4 years ago

I went to this Benihana's months ago and my experience was so bad I'll never return! We had to wait over an hour before they informed us the chef was running late and offered our table free appetizers to compensate. This was appreciated but when I asked if our meals could be reduced due to our terrible experience the manager said no. So it was another hour before our chef even began to start to cook and that's when we were told that there were only 6 chefs for 24 tables. The manager was not helpful at all. We had an 8pm reservation and didn't start eating until after 11. We noticed other tables were just sitting waiting on their food! And I ended up having to pay full price for a meal that wasn't good and was 2+ hours late. The service was horrible and the customer service was horrible. My friends and I vowed to never go back to this restaurant. It was poorly run and was the worst experience I've ever had at a Benihana and it's one of my favorite restaurants! read more

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Benihana - sushi - Updated November 2026

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P.F. Chang's

3.0

(568 reviews)

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We celebrated my great aunt's 80th birthday here with close family and relatives, and we had such a…read moregreat time! There were about 25 of us, and they reserved a small corner of the restaurant for our group. It was semi private since there were no walls separating us from the other guests, but the restaurant is huge, so it didn't bother us at all. Our servers were great and got our drink orders out quickly. The food started coming out one by one on huge shareable plates, which was perfect for our big group. Everything was tasty, portions were generous, and I was definitely stuffed by the end! The atmosphere was lively and spacious, and everyone really enjoyed the celebration. Great food, great service, and a fun place for a large family gathering!

Really enjoyed my lunch here!…read more The beef was super flavorful and savory, and I loved how well it went with the bell peppers and sauce. Everything was nicely seasoned, and the sauce was especially good with rice. My only complaint is that the rice portion was a little small. The bowl is pretty narrow at the bottom, so you don't actually get that much rice. It's definitely not cheap, but the food was really good. I think P.F. Chang's is a great example of American Chinese food done well. It's different from traditional Chinese food, but that doesn't make one better than the other. They're just different styles, and I can appreciate both. Overall, I had a great meal and would happily come back!

Starfish Sushi

3.7

(828 reviews)

•$$

Sushi- 10 Service-10 ( Jenny)…read more The Hungry Hardhat has placed Starfish Sushi on his Platinum List of must try Sushi spots. Definitely a return customer and Definitely recommend to all who love good Sushi. So let it be said... So let it be EATEN.

UPDATE: After my experience, I looked through other recent Yelp reviews and was surprised to see…read moremultiple customers describing very similar issues with the front-of-house service. Recent reviewers have described the service as rude, unhelpful, and accompanied by a poor attitude. One reviewer described the service as "awful, horrible, rude service," while another said the woman at the front had a "terrible attitude." Another recent reviewer described the host as rude after being told to wait outside in the rain and wind, and another specifically mentioned that the hostess was not helpful when they had questions. Unfortunately, this makes my experience seem much less like an isolated incident and more like a recurring customer-service problem. My own experience involved someone at the front who was unnecessarily difficult, unwilling to help with basic questions or alternatives, and ultimately refused service when I asked to speak with management. What is even more concerning is that I subsequently tried multiple times to reach management about what happened and did not receive a return call. When several recent customers are independently describing similar experiences with front-of-house staff, I would expect management or ownership to take those complaints seriously. Based on my experience and the pattern reflected in other recent reviews, I cannot recommend this restaurant. Do yourself a favor and go somewhere that values its customers and treats them with basic courtesy and respect.

Outback Steakhouse

3.1

(538 reviews)

•$$

First time coming to this location on a Friday night and it was crowded! Which for me is a good…read morething because you know the place is good. Waiting time about 20 min. So we decided to seat in the bar and we really enjoyed it. They served the food super fast, there were 3 bar tenders, they were attentive and good attitude and nice. Drinks are good, I ordered the ribeye medium cooked with shrimp, baked potato and salad, it was amazingly good, flavor, and the food came fast. We also ordered the steak sandwich and it was good too. I would definitely come back and seat either at the bar or table. The bathroom is clean too. They offer warm bread with butter which we loved!

I'm convinced this Outback Steakhouse is running an experimental program to see how long customers…read morecan stand around before being acknowledged. After waiting five minutes at the bar without so much as a "hello," the bartender finally appeared and immediately started shouting, "What can I get you, sir?" from halfway across the bar. Apparently, indoor voice training was not included in orientation. When I asked for a menu, I was informed that "most people already know what they want to drink." Interesting. I wasn't aware telepathy was now a requirement for dining out. To clarify, I didn't ask what most people do. I asked for a menu so I could order food. The bartender's ability to assume what customers want was only surpassed by her inability to listen to what they actually asked for. Customer service: missing. People skills: missing. Menu awareness: questionable. Volume control: nonexistent. If this location ever decides to invest in hospitality training, they might want to start with the person behind the bar. Zero stars for service. The steak never had a chance.

Tokyo Garden

4.2

(2.3k reviews)

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Kaowok Chinese Kitchen

3.3

(279 reviews)

•$

Coming from church as El Nino rains start we took a trip to Downey Landing off Lakewood blvd…read more We were going to go Hawaiian but this place caught my eye. Looks in the window a tipical Chinese lil buffet like P Ex. Butvery wrong. The food looks fresh and great as you walk up. And counter staff truly friendly and prompt. Food selections are somewhat typical except instead of chow main and rice they also have a vegetable base as well. Prices are standard you have the one two or three combo also have shrimp special combo 3 flavor noodle soup shrimp with lobster sauce and have family feast and prices are nice. They do catering as well. My wife got mushrooms chicken and orange chicken with chow main. Orange chicken is very good Mushrooms chicken is bomb I got pineapple chicken teriyaki chicken and BBQ pork. Love this teriyaki chicken is bomb love how it's grilled and then mixed with a teriyaki sauce with a ting of sweetness. Pineapple chicken is fresh with a sauce that give you thank mmm I want more. The bbq chicken is great with good flavor not over bearing like some. I like the options of a vegetable base is really good Customer service is on the ball. And this place is busy seating is good can be 2 to 4 or even 10 if you put the tables together. Can soda or fountain drinks and they sell a chili sauce hmm. I met that had been at this establishment for many years so this place good vibes Atmosphere is conversation among each other they have 1 TV with a show streaming. I also noticed they have a bowl option you will see on the above counter when ordering Customer service = 9 Food = 8 Cleanliness = 8 Food freshness = 8 Price to product = 8 I will return definitely

Kaowok - Downey, CA…read more I ordered the 2-item combo with steamed rice and chow mein, choosing orange chicken and BBQ pork as my main dishes. The portions were generous and packed with meat, which was definitely a plus. Unfortunately, the flavor was just average for me. I'd rather have a smaller portion with really great flavor than a large quantity that doesn't stand out. Overall, I wasn't impressed enough to come back. The food wasn't bad, but it just wasn't that great. I'd choose another spot next time.

Maui Sushi & Teriyaki

3.8

(558 reviews)

•$$

Excellent service, excellent selection, delicious food!…read more They accommodated my family of 8, including 3 small children! Very family friendly even though it was busy on a Sunday night. Jalapeno bombs and monkey brains appetizer is a MUST. I order this every time. Miso soup and udon were great soup/noodles starters. Today, we ordered Maui roll, crunch roll, maniac roll, and spider roll. Our personal favorite is the Spider Roll. They do the softshell crab really well! This is my wife's go to. I always get the Maui roll. We tried the maniac for the first time and it was great! Will order again. Service was excellent as usual. Fast service and very friendly. I will be back again with friends and family.

I don't know what happened?? Since, the new owners took over recently . the food just isn't the…read moresame flavor at all. The meat didn't taste the same either The Mac-salad does not taste like it used to taste. It was bland, yuk) . I ordered to pick up . When I arrived home . My plate had 3 Mac salad servings ??? Instead of having Rice and meat & the shredded cabbage in it. What happened is beyond me?? Never again will I be eating here. (It was a long day for me) I am Extremely disappointed .

Sakana Sushi & Izakaya

3.8

(53 reviews)

•$$

This place is really good! Only ever done pick up but everyone on the phone has been nice and food…read moreis ready quickly. Their popcorn lobster roll is HUGE and the fish on the other rolls is very fresh. Very generous sizes. Will definitely come here again!!

So we have been here once. Did not have a bad experience, but the food.... Was not very good…read more Unpopular opinion, hope I dont trigger anybody. Food was very mid. Staff was nice, not super attentive. Wondering why they named this place Izakaya if all they really sell are generic rolls and teriyaki... anyway back to the rating. We ordered several rolls, sashimi, and couple apps. The Edamame was weird. While traditionally steamed and tossed, or fried and tossed with garlic n chilies, these were.... Wet? Like swimming in some type of sauce. Sauce was tasty, but it was so weird to look at. Rolls were very underwhelming. Nothing popped, nothing hit you making you come back for another bite. Family did not enjoy it, would rather return to Kyoto across the street or Jin down the street. Just saying.

Teriyaki Burger Premium Grill

4.3

(50 reviews)

I really love this place, their teriyaki bowls are always generous and delicious, haven't gotten a…read morebad plate yet and they have a drive thru, BTW, add the avacado to your bowl, I didn't use to get it but now I do, adds extra yummy..ness (grin)

We had been craving a teriyaki bowl and decided to try this spot…read more I got a small chicken teriyaki bowl and it was very filling, the chicken tasted a little burnt tho. We also got a beef medium plate and that was good, the avocado was just perfect. Service was okay, they delayed the order a bit and the girl said "sorry for wait, we're very busy" we were in the drive thru but we could see inside was empty! Like no one in there. But anyways. Pricing was okay. Good was okay. I really wanted to try the tofu bowl but wasn't sure I was going to try it, I will definitely give it a try next time.

California Sushi & Teriyaki

3.1

(189 reviews)

•$

My coworker was sweet enough to grab us lunch from this place because the day prior I didn't have a…read moregood experience at another teriyaki place. I'm glad and grateful she did. The portions here were bigger , tastier, and more reasonable in price. The chicken and beef had a char and more flavor ! The salad was Fresh. The Mac salad Was Flavorful. Only downside was that they didn't include the dressing on the side or in the salad.

meh! I used to love eating here but lately their food taste dry and no longer appetizing.read more

China Bowl Express & Young Hawaiian BBQ

3.2

(223 reviews)

•$

LOVE IT HERE, they always pack our plates! Easy protein gains They're always kind, speedy, and the…read moreplace is cute. 5 stars easily!!

There was a piece of broken glass in my food. I ordered chow mein and spicy orange chicken…read more Be careful ordering from this place

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Benihana - sushi - Updated November 2026

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