Teppanyaki restaurants have become increasingly popular over the years. It is not hard to see why. 

Who doesn’t love the idea of having their food cooked directly in front of them? 

If you are interested in dining at one of these places, here are some things you should know prior to making a reservation.

The first thing to note is that the terms hibachi and teppanyaki are often used synonymously, even though they are not the same. 

Teppanyaki is when food is prepared on a flat top. Hibachi is when a grate is used to cook items over an open flame. 

Prepare For A Show

If you are someone who prefers a quiet setting when they are eating, this is not the type of place you should even consider. 

Most teppanyaki chefs make it a point to put on a serious show when they are interacting with customers. 

This includes showing off their knife work, throwing utensils around, tossing food into customers’ mouths and being generally entertaining. 

Make sure that you are in the mood for excitement or you will be sorely disappointed.

Make Sure That You Are Hungry

This is a dining experience that has many different courses. It is not as simple as having one plate of food served to you. 

While the ingredients often vary depending on the establishment you visit, you are usually offered an appetiser, soup or salad, a seafood course, the main course (which includes meat), rice or noodles, then dessert. 

It is a good idea to bring a hearty appetite with you. 

If you are not sure about what kind of ingredients are customarily served, here is what can be expected:

MAIN COURSE

• Beef (Cuts may vary. Traditionally, teppanyaki restaurants in Japan offer premium Wagyu)
• Shrimp
• Scallops
• Chicken
• Assorted vegetables
• Lobster
• Yakisoba (Served at more authentic eateries)
• Cabbage (Served instead of an assortment. Offered at authentic eateries)

A combination of the above will be cooked together and served as the main course. There are typically sauces available to add as desired. 

When visiting places that aim for authenticity, you may only be offered soy sauce as this is how it is served in Japan.

RICE COURSE

• Fried rice that includes egg is typically served for this course. In most cases, the cracking of the egg is part of the entertainment.
• Some restaurants offer risotto

This is not always served, especially in cases when the diner has opted for yakisoba.

DESSERTS

• Ice cream
• Cakes
• Pastries

The flavours and assortment vary. This course is often served with tea or coffee as an accompaniment.

Tipping Your Chef

In many teppanyaki places, the amount that you tip the waiter is distributed evenly amongst those who are working that night.

With that said, there are some places that have a tip jar located directly in front of the chef. In that case, you should feel free to tip based on performance. 

Keep in mind that every restaurant handles tips differently, so it could be helpful to ask what is expected before you go. 

This will ensure that you are given a great performance and not left confused about whether an additional tip is expected or not.

Visiting teppanyaki restaurants can be a unique and exciting way to enjoy Eastern flavours while dining with friends. 

If you are thinking about making a reservation, you can do so with confidence now that you know what to expect. 

Hopefully, you find a great place and you have an experience that is so enjoyable you will go back time and time again.

If you are in Melbourne and want to enjoy an authentic Japanese culinary experience, you simply can’t go past Kobe Teppanyaki in Doncaster East.

For reservations please call us today on 03 9841 9889 or visit here https://www.kobeteppanyaki.com.au/booking for bookings and enquiries.