Hibachi-San

This entry refers to a departed business that has closed or left town. All information here is for historical reference only.

 

Hibachi-San on the right, with blocky topiaries out front

Panda Express expanded into the space formerly occupied by Hibachi-San.

Hibachi-San was the Green Burrito to Panda Express' Carl's Jr. Or to put it another way, they shared the same location and the same owners, but offered different menus. Whereas Panda Express is Americanized Chinese food, Hibachi-San was Americanized Japanese food. One could choose chicken, beef, shrimp, or a combination of any two. Items came with fried or steamed rice, and some fried vegetable shreds. A la carte options included miso, yakisoba, and dumplings. A handful of ready-made maki (CA roll, rainbow roll) were found in a refrigerated case by the register. This restaurant had less than one-third of the web menu items.

Like most fast food places, one should have been wary of the food quality and (obviously) authenticity. The meats were fried as little pieces on a flattop grill, and the teriyaki sauce was thick and salty. The miso soup had also likely been sitting out for quite a while, and it was quite thick (not brothy) and extremely salty. Some also complained about the freshness and taste of the ready made rolls.

2005-10-26 16:02:57 Should I assume that, like Panda Express, their vegetable dishes are made with meat-based broths, or does someone know better? —JesseSingh

• I have submitted the veggie item question to the company, and shall post when news arrives —JudithTruman

2006-12-13 22:45:22   Disgusted by the sushi rolls I bought last Sunday. Safeway's are less chewy, fresher, and the avocado is actually ripe. Also, Safeway's are cheaper. Never going here again! —KaitlinSufit

2007-08-17 23:10:56   I for one find the name very comical, and won't patronize this place based upon it... As a matter of fact me and a buddy of mine are going to Japan to open up Mr. BBQ, or maybe BBQ sir... —StevenDaubert