The slogan for is “What did you do last night?” If you can’t remember what you did, much less what you had for dinner, then Benihana is the place to go. With traffic on Chagrin Boulevard it’s easy to drive by, but keep an eye out for their sign on the north side of the street.
This restaurant is all about good food and exciting preparation, which is centered around the teppanyaki table. This “table” is really a steel grill where the knife-wielding chefs cook and entertain.
Your entree starts with soup and salad; then the show really starts. Each chef has a personality and makes a statement with their food juggling, knife-dancing, food slicing and grilling.
Before your mesmerizing preparation starts you must make a meal choice. There are several types of steak and chicken, lots of seafood options, combinations, and vegetarian main ingredients to pick from. After the ingredients are presented you can sit back and enjoy the show. There is a full bar menu including an extensive sake list and non-alcoholic drinks as well. Not sure how to order sake? Click on their sake 101 link.
There is a sushi bar, which features about 20 varieties of sushi/sashimi. Again, Benihana provides a good primer on sushi. Tempura and specialty rolls round out the menu.
Kids are welcome, although you won’t find grilled cheese. Look for smaller-sized portions that get the same attention and presentation as the adult orders.
After dining you’ll never look at food preparation the same way. Just a word of caution: don’t try this at home.