Review: Hibachi

Hibachi Steakhouse
1613 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor
Phone: 215- 751-9993
http://www.tokyo1613.com/


Benihanas, Tanakas of Tokyo…

…and Hibachi?

As a newcomer to the Center City dining scene, Hibachi is trying to fill a hole for diners looking to get their fix of flashy chefs, flying knives, and food prepared in front of your eyes. Located upstairs from WOK on Walnut St. (could use some more promotion and signage, you wouldn’t spot it just walking by), Hibachi offers a nice alternative to the many Japanese restaurants in the neighborhood.

We were the only party on a Thursday night at the beginning of March. The staff (all Chinese, no Japanese) were friendly, even if their English was not so great. Our chef tried hard (tricks including slicing up a piece of raw zucchini and flipping bits into everyone’s mouth) even if he accidentally threw his knife at one of our friends.

The food was good (I had the teriyaki salmon, not cooked in front of me, just b/c I don’t love the stuff they make on the grill); no one had any complaints. They have a bunch of different combinations platters, including steak, chicken, shrimp, and scallops. Prices $17-25 per set meal, beers are $5.