Hanayori of Japan

Hana Yori is a dump. We've lived in the area for over 15 years and I think they've had the same carpet, decorations, and furniture since we first tried them. This restaurant could definitely use an overhaul. So, why give it 4 stars? Because, for the area, you can't beat the food and the show. (If we were somewhere else I'd only give it three stars.) Their ginger salad dressing is amazing. I always buy a jar of it to go home. What makes the meal complete, though, is the yellow egg yolk sauce they put on the shrimp. I'm pretty sure it has been known to cause heart attacks so cardiac patients beware. But it is sooooo good. Just don't overdo it. You'll regret it later!

I'm really not a fan of Hanayori and hadn't been there in quite some time, but went in with an open mind as we were meeting friends there to celebrate a birthday (birthday boy's restaurant pick).

The restaurant is dated and service is so-so.  There are definitely beter Hibachi places to go.

The offer a full bar, but a very poor wine selection.

I ordered the steak which the menu compares to Kobe - NOT!  The included shrimp appetizer was a few pieces of chopped shrimp coated in the gloppy egg yolk sauce.  I know some people (including several at our table) love the stuff, but it is not even remotely appealing to me (not a good indicator when they have a sign posted that it may upset your stomach!).

The salad with ginger dressing is good and I do like the side sauces they serve with the meal (a mustard and soy ginger sauce).

The vegetables and fried rice were cooked well, but so incredibly greasy.  The steak was fine and cooked a nice medium as requested, but also very greasy.

You will leave the restaurant with that lingering, greasy smell.

Don't let the shabby decor fool you, Hanayori knows how to do hibachi! I'm a huge fan of hibachi, and have been to quite a few different locations...and I have to say Hanayori does it best. They have the most legit chefs I have ever seen --no poorly-trained people here. Their food is full of flavor, and their chefs know how to time everything out to balance the meal well. They're also not overly chatty --which I like.

As far as service goes: the hostess is a little rough around the edges, and the waitress on my most recent trip was HORRIBLE. I'm talking, no common sense talking down to us horrible. I have never been one to forgo tipping, however, this night out was the first time I did not leave a tip for a server.

Hanayori --PLEASE UP YOUR SERVE ANTE.