Benihana Japanese Restaurant - Encino

One of my favorite restaurants to go to! You can't really go wrong with any of the food here.

Its hard to objectively review Benihana because you already know what to expect and what not to expect.

PROS: Bar staff was very friendly and welcomingI did not wait more than ten minutes for my meal CONS: The bathrooms were not clean.

This establishment is a landmark structure that has been here for years. The staff is efficient and professional. Food is better when you eat at the restaurant. You pay for the show and the friendliness of the chef. It’s a long standing tradition to go here for our birthdays. I almost always get Rocky’s Choice, and ‘yes’ I got it tonight. My hubby got the Splash n’ Meadow (steak and colossal shrimp). Both are 6 course meals including soup, salad, rice, shrimp appetizer, veggies, ice cream or sherbet. Hot green tea is also complimentary (See pics). 5 course meals don’t include the dessert. TIP: 1) Happy Hour is from 3-7pm at this location and only at the bar. You can get the Benihana award winning sake large for $5 (normally $11). 2) Parking on street next to restaurant after 7pm is free or across the street before 7pm (see the pic 3) Sign up on website for birthday coupon worth $30. Read the fine print.

Overall decently clean. Food was okay and portion sizes were good. Bar happy hour from 4-7 is a great place to start with drink and apps discounted. The ginger salad dressing was real watered down and lacking flavor. Service was good, but for the price food could be better. Also 6$ valet parking.