Wow Wings & Hibachi in Columbia: Wings, Grilled Meats, and Japanese Comfort Food
What Wow Wings & Hibachi serves
Wow Wings & Hibachi is a hybrid restaurant in Columbia that combines a casual wing spot with Japanese hibachi grilling. The menu splits between American-style chicken wings—sauced and seasoned in house—and made-to-order hibachi plates where a chef grills proteins, vegetables, and fried rice on a flat-top griddle in front of you. You can order wings alone as an appetizer or entrée, or pair them with hibachi items on the same bill.
The wing sauces rotate and include both traditional flavors (buffalo, teriyaki, garlic parmesan) and house specials that change seasonally. Hibachi entrées come with grilled vegetables, fried rice, and your choice of protein—chicken, shrimp, steak, or combinations. The restaurant operates as a sit-down dining space with a full bar, making it suitable for groups, dates, or solo diners who want to watch the cooking action.
Key Takeaways
- Wow Wings & Hibachi serves both traditional buffalo-style wings and house-made sauces, available as appetizers or full entrées.
- Hibachi plates are cooked to order on a flat-top griddle in front of you, with your choice of protein and vegetables included.
- The restaurant is located in Columbia and operates as a full-service sit-down venue with a bar.
- Wing sauces and hibachi specials rotate seasonally, so the menu changes throughout the year.
Wing flavors and how to order
Wings come in bone-in and boneless styles, and you can order them by the pound or as part of a combo meal. The standard sauces include buffalo (hot and tangy), teriyaki (sweet and savory), and garlic parmesan (buttery and mild). House specials vary but have included Korean gochujang, lemon pepper, and spicy honey combinations. Sauces are tossed in the kitchen, not served on the side, so specify your heat level and flavor preference when you order.
Most wing orders come with a choice of dipping sauce—ranch, blue cheese, or hot sauce—and can be paired with sides like fries, coleslaw, or celery. If you are ordering wings as part of a larger hibachi meal, you can start with a wing appetizer while your hibachi plate is being prepared, which gives the chef time to cook your proteins and vegetables.
The hibachi experience and what to expect
Hibachi dining at Wow Wings means sitting at a communal or semi-private griddle where a chef cooks your meal in front of you. The chef typically starts with vegetables—onions, zucchini, mushrooms, broccoli—then adds your protein and fried rice, seasoning and flipping everything with metal spatulas. The cooking takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on how busy the kitchen is, and the chef often performs tricks like stacking onion rings or catching food in a hat.
You choose your protein when you order: chicken breast, shrimp, steak (usually ribeye or sirloin), or a combination. Vegetarian hibachi is also available with tofu or extra vegetables. The plate comes with grilled vegetables, fried rice cooked on the griddle, and a small cup of yum yum sauce (a creamy, slightly spicy house sauce). Portions are generous and meant to be filling as a complete meal.
Pricing and portion sizes
Wing prices are typically charged by the pound, with bone-in wings costing less per pound than boneless. A half-pound order is a good appetizer size for one person; a full pound feeds two to three people as a starter. Combo meals that include wings, fries, and a drink are usually available at a lower per-item cost than ordering everything separately.
Hibachi entrées are priced by protein choice, with chicken being the least expensive, followed by shrimp, then steak or combination plates. Most hibachi plates run between $15 and $25 depending on what you choose. The portions are large enough that many diners take leftovers home, especially if they also order wings or appetizers beforehand.
Location and hours in Columbia
Wow Wings & Hibachi operates in Columbia, though the exact address and hours can change. The restaurant typically opens for lunch and dinner service, with extended hours on weekends. It is worth calling ahead or checking their social media pages before visiting, especially on holidays or during special events, as hours may shift.
The dining room is designed for groups and celebrations—hibachi tables work well for birthdays, team outings, or family dinners where the cooking performance is part of the entertainment. Reservations are often recommended for larger groups, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings when the restaurant fills up quickly.
Dietary considerations and customization
The kitchen can accommodate vegetarian hibachi by substituting tofu or using only vegetables and fried rice. Gluten-free diners should ask about sauces and marinades, as some wing sauces and hibachi seasonings may contain soy sauce or other gluten-containing ingredients. The restaurant staff can usually explain which items are safe for common dietary restrictions, though it is best to mention allergies or restrictions when you order.
Wings can be ordered with no sauce or with sauce on the side if you prefer to control how much coating they have. Hibachi plates can be customized with extra vegetables, lighter seasoning, or no butter if you request it when you order. The chef will work with your preferences within reason, so do not hesitate to ask about modifications.
Why Wow Wings & Hibachi fits Columbia's dining scene
Columbia has a growing appetite for casual dining that combines entertainment with food, and Wow Wings & Hibachi fills that niche by offering two distinct cuisines under one roof. The hibachi concept appeals to diners who want to see their food cooked live, while the wing menu attracts people looking for a quick appetizer or a sports-bar-style meal. The full bar and spacious seating make it a destination for groups rather than just a takeout spot.
The restaurant also taps into Columbia's interest in Asian-inspired flavors and comfort food, offering both familiar American tastes (buffalo wings) and interactive Japanese dining. Whether you are a regular wing enthusiast or someone curious about hibachi cooking, the dual menu means there is something for different tastes at the same table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order wings to go?
Yes, wings are available for takeout. Call ahead to place your order so the kitchen can have them ready when you arrive. Takeout wings travel well in a container, though they are best eaten within an hour or two of cooking for the best texture.
Do I need a reservation for hibachi?
Reservations are not always required for small groups, but they are strongly recommended for parties of six or more, especially on weekends. Call the restaurant to check availability and book a hibachi table if you have a large group or a specific time in mind.
What is yum yum sauce?
Yum yum sauce is a creamy, slightly spicy house sauce that comes with hibachi plates. It is typically made with mayo, ketchup, and seasonings. It pairs well with the grilled vegetables, rice, and protein on your plate.
Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, hibachi can be made vegetarian with tofu or extra vegetables instead of meat. Wings are also vegetarian-friendly if you choose them, though some sauces may contain animal products—ask the kitchen if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.
How long does a hibachi meal take?
From the time you sit down at the griddle to when your plate is finished, expect 10 to 15 minutes of cooking time. If the restaurant is busy, there may be a wait before a chef is available to start your meal. Ordering wings as an appetizer while you wait is a good strategy.