Benihana, Inc.

Benihana, Inc.: A Renowned Japanese Restaurant Chain

Benihana, Inc. is a renowned Japanese restaurant chain delighting guests with its unique teppanyaki dining experience since 1964. Founded by Hiroaki "Rocky" Aoki in New York City, the first restaurant introduced the art of teppanyaki—a style where skilled chefs prepare meals on a steel grill in front of diners.

This innovative approach quickly gained popularity, setting the stage for the brand's expansion across the United States and internationally.

Company Size and Operations

As of 2024, Benihana operates 89 locations, including 68 company-owned restaurants and 12 franchises in the United States, Caribbean, Central, and South America.

The company also owns one Samurai restaurant and 19 RA Sushi restaurants in the United States. The corporate headquarters is located in Aventura, Florida.

Menu Offerings

The menu features a variety of teppanyaki-style dishes such as hibachi chicken, fresh steak, seafood, salads, vegetables, noodles, tofu, and desserts.

In addition to teppanyaki, Benihana operates two additional Asian restaurant concepts: RA Sushi and Haru.

• RA Sushi offers sushi options including sashimi, hand rolls, nigiri, maki, and specialty rolls.
• Haru serves sushi, nigiri, sashimi, maki, hand rolls, beverages, sides, specialty rolls, salads, and desserts.

Recent Acquisition

In February 2024, Benihana was acquired by The ONE Group Hospitality, Inc. for $365 million. Emanuel "Manny" Hilario, President and CEO of The ONE Group, also assumed the role of President and CEO of Benihana.

Company Philosophy and Growth

Benihana's success is attributed to its commitment to providing an entertaining and high-quality dining experience, combining traditional Japanese cooking techniques with American favorites.

The company's growth and enduring popularity show its ability to adapt and innovate while maintaining the essence of its original concept.

Locations

Benihana operates numerous locations across the United States, including:

• Sugar Land, TX
• Boca Raton, FL
• Conroe, TX
• Hillsboro, OR
• Detroit, MI
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Cherry Hill, NJ
• Norristown, PA

Each restaurant offers the signature teppanyaki dining experience, where skilled chefs prepare meals on steel grills in front of guests, providing both entertainment and a delicious meal.