Benihana
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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.
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.
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.
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 !!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
It was our first time here and let's say this place left an impression on us. We placed a reservation for 7 they texted me at 6:37 if I was on my way. When we got there they made us wait which I direct you to the early text. When we finally sat down they took our order they try and up sell you on everything. Water, butter for the food so we didn't know what to order or how it worked and we did say that. Our chef didn't arrive until 7:45 and it was loud in our area and he didn't have a loud voice. He cooked our meal and did his whole hoopla and the kids really enjoyed it. Oh I must add we only had 5 ppl at our table. We felt the chef didn't show much enthusiasm like the other chefs. We ate our food paid and left. Overall it was an ok experience that honestly I could have never attended and I would have been fine. Maybe our experience was average but I won't be visiting a Benihana's anytime soon.
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!
2 years ago
This dragon fruit drink was amazing and so was our host Heidi. We appreciate the hospitality. read more
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Lee C.
Thanks, Ash! We're thrilled you loved the dragon fruit drink and had…
1 year ago
i didn't hate it but i didn't love it ?? this was my first time really having a hibachi experience and i was really underwhelmed. the customer service was great, especially considering i was one of the last reservations for the day. idk... i don't have anything bad to say but nothing good either read more
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Lee C.
Dear Chelsey, thank you for sharing your thoughts. We're sorry to…
1 year ago
Horrible experience, will never come here again. I made reservations for 6:30. when I arrived to check in at 6:30 exactly, they told me it would be an hour wait. My family came in to ask at 8pm what was going on and they said they were barely calling in all reservations from 6:30 and that It would take 15 more minutes. Not until 8:18 I received a message that my table was ready. me and my family walk in only for them to tell me to wait a few more minutes. what's the point of reservations if I won't be attended until two hours later and being told my table is still not ready After confirmation? read more
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Lee C.
Andrea, we're sorry to hear about the long wait despite having a…
My son requested this as his birthday dinner and we had a good. The hosts were way nicer than the Anaheim location. They were friendlier and actually looked like they liked people. Our server was very sweet and took good care of all our requests. The decor inside was nicer as well. More open with light coming in and with the red lanterns hanging from the ceiling. It's newer and it shows. Our food was cooked and seasoned well. Our kids love the whole dine and entertain deal so we are sure to visit again. read more
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Lee C.
Erica, thank you so much for choosing to celebrate your son's…
3 years ago
Food was not the best. Service was worse. Waiter needed more training. We asked for kids menu and she said they supposedly didn't have any they ran out but could tell us what's on the menu. She said we have chicken steak and shrimp. We would've ordered chicken tenders had she said there were chicken tenders.. I said well what does it come with? How do you run out of kids menu?? Then as we were walking out, guess what we saw.. the kids menu. Very unprofessional. We are paying for a service. Bathrooms were filthy you can tell bathrooms are not clean regularly. We paid $600 for 8 people, we were better off going elsewhere. I expected more and better but was left super unsatisfied and unimpressed. I will definitely not come back. Do better, train your employees. read more
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Lee C.
Hi Jaclyn, we’re sorry your experience was less than a favorable one.…
Got greeted very rudely with the host. Told us she will be right with us we waited patiently since they are busy which is why I got it to go. She came back three times and never directed her attention back to us. I went up again to let her know I was there for an online order then with attitude directed me to the pick up area. The girl there was nice and said they were finishing up with the order. Ambience is as expected loud, lively and busy. The food was very good just had to be eaten right away since it was just warm. Their fried rice is still my favorite. Lobster was cooked impeccable. read more
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Lee C.
Hello Paloma, thank you for taking the time to share your feedback…
2 years ago
We arrived early for our 9 pm reservation and went tot the bar and it took 45 minutes to get 3 drinks and 1 order of tempura shrimp. We got called to the table right after 9pm. It took about 49 minutes after being seated for our water and another 10 ish minutes for the soup to come out. After waiting an unreasonable amount of time we complained and were comped 2 of the appetizers. The food it self was good. The cook was friendly but the place was dirty and slow. I would try other locations of this chain again but would not return to this location. read more
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Lee C.
Hi David, thank you for sharing your experience with us. We apologize…
2 years ago
Thank you for the worst bday I ever had.. Reservation, useless.. even if you did, you'll wait 2hrs After seating down, took an hour for the cook to come in. Food the worst.. so salty. Rice so dry The cook trying hard to be funny Cook kept on forgetting his ingredients and will come back after so long and chitchat with others, hello we are hungry here!!! The place has poor ventilation from the smoke. Didn't finish my food and didn't even brought it home. Left so disappointed! Never ever coming back. read more
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Lee C.
Anne, we're sorry to hear you had such a negative experience at our…
2 years ago
Picked up a catering order for my employees and they loved it! Management was helpful carrying my order to my car for me. Always friendly when I visit. The sushi platter looked beautiful, tasted even better. read more
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Lee C.
Delia, thank you for your wonderful review! We're happy to hear that…
1 year ago
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Lee C.
Dear Dayana, we're delighted to hear you had a fantastic dining…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Hi Suzie, thanks for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear…
9 months ago
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Lee C.
We're sorry to hear about your experience, Gabrielle. Your feedback…
Do not go here if you want solid service or to feel appreciated.The host was nice .We Sat outside . No server. So we went inside to try that lol and still no server.20 minutes later we went to the host who got our server and we finally were greeted. We opted for non show /hibachi service tonight. The sushi was fresh and the presentation was nice . We had to ask for plates .Ask for soy and refills and the check .The server forgot the steamed rice with my sashimi assortment but I didnt want to have to ask for that also. Full hands in and out would be useful here for this location. Nobody i saw had ANY sense of urgency and all i could see is how much money this location must lose because of that . I believe i saw 2 managers on this shift but nobody checked on us or any other tables that i could see. Management Table touches would also help the Downey location, they must not be concerned with guest experience here .This one is closest to my house but i will just not go back . Id give it a 3 star to be nice but it doesn't deserve it .at all . read more
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Lee C.
Kim, we’re truly sorry to hear about your experience. Thank you for…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Thanks for the fantastic review, Andrea! We're thrilled to hear you…
2 years ago
This restaurant truly shines with both its delicious food and impeccable service, creating a memorable dining experience. Very nice ambiance read more
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Lee C.
Maxx, thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear you…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Lee C.
K, I’m sorry to hear about your experience. We strive to provide…
2 years ago
Great food, Great Chef and good service make for a good time out. Precious was on fire today, she had us rolling. She made everything to our hearts delight. Got to share our table with a birthday girl, hope she had fun. read more
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Lee C.
Thank you, Javier! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your experience…
1 year ago
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Lee C.
We're sorry to hear about your experience, Eduardo. Your feedback is…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Lee C.
Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Veronica! We’re thrilled to…
2 years ago
Carlos was attentive, professional, and made sure our meal was perfect from start to finish. His friendly personality and attention to detail truly enhanced our visit. Julian, as always, provided top-notch service and was quick on providing drinks and refills, making us feel welcomed and ensuring we had everything we needed. Both servers went above and beyond to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. I highly recommend asking for Carlos or Julian if you want an exceptional dining experience at Benihana! Thanks for making our experience the best.. read more
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Lee C.
Thank you, Christian! We're thrilled to hear that Carlos and Julian…
9 months ago
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Lee C.
Thank you for your feedback, Edith. We're sorry to hear about your…
2 years ago
7 months ago
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Lee C.
We're sorry to hear about your experience, Terri. We apologize for…
3 years ago
Went to this Benihana for a birthday dinner. It was ok. The wait was a bit long for our chef to come to our table. Food was ok and tasted a little bland for some reason. They sat us right by the door so every time someone opened the door, the cold air hit us. I've always loved Benihana but this location needs some work. I ordered extra fried rice to go and I got from their kitchen. It was so bland and tasteless. I threw it out. For the price we paid, I expected a decent meal. I know this has nothing to do with the restaurant, but there were also some teenagers just hanging out in the bathroom pretty much the entire time we were there and it was challenging getting in and out of the restroom (about 5 or 6) and accessing the sink to wash your hands. Why parents would pay that much for their kids to sit in the bathroom, I don't know. read more
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Lee C.
Hi Carmelita, thank you for taking the time to share your feedback…
2 years ago
Had a great experience once again. Celebrated Valentine's Day weekend here and had nothing but great things to say. Brittany our service rep was great and Richard, our cook was amazing! The food was so good and well seasoned. It took a long time to get a cook this time around, but we were compensated for the wait. Everything was great, will definitely be coming back. read more
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Lee C.
Thanks for your fantastic feedback, Robert! We're thrilled to hear…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Thanks for the fantastic feedback, Dominique! We're thrilled to hear…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Hi D, thanks for your fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that…
2 years ago
Joseph was our server, he made my daughters birthday so enjoyable! Great cook, service, he's funny and great tasting hibachi!!! A 7th birthday to remember!! Thank you Joseph and Benihana Downey! read more
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Lee C.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Remi! We're thrilled to hear that…
1 year ago
Our Server was great! Brianna made sure we were taken care of. We look forward to coming back soon! read more
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Lee C.
Thank you, Patricia! We're delighted to hear that Brianna took great…
2 years ago
Best service with Bethany. Thank you. Enjoy out time here.she was nice....................... Ask for her when you are here read more
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Lee C.
Thanks for the awesome review, Viri! We're thrilled to hear you had a…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Thanks for the fantastic feedback, Erik! We’re thrilled to hear that…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Lee C.
Brianna, we’re truly sorry to hear about your experience. Waiting and…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Thanks, Marsha! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic…
2 years ago
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Lee C.
Hi Robert, I'm truly sorry to hear about your experience. Waiting and…
1 year ago
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Lee C.
Thank you for your review, Rudy. We apologize for the inconvenience…
11 months ago
Business owner information
Lee C.
Thank you, Danny B.! We're happy to hear that you consistently enjoy…
Went to Benihanas for the first time on Wednesday. Armando's service was paramount He was very welcoming and attentive to all our needs. The restaurants music/happy hour gave a great girls night ambiance. The food was good, our rice was super fresh yummmmmm! Since we went for girls night drinks we didn't sit for the hibachi show so I can't comment on that. Our drinks were so good, I recommend the lemon drop and my fave was the cherry lemon blossom read more
8 months ago
Business owner information
Lee C.
Thank you for your feedback, Alicia. We're sorry to hear about your…
More info about Benihana
8801 Apollo Way
Downey, CA 90242
Directions
(562) 372-9210
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.benihana.com
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Ask the Community - Benihana
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.
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
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.
Is it possible to have the chili shrimp roll made with no rice?
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…
Review Highlights - Benihana
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