Hibachi88: Japanese Teppanyaki and Sushi in South Carolina

What Hibachi88 offers and where to find it

Hibachi88 is a Japanese teppanyaki and sushi restaurant where a chef cooks your meal on a flat iron griddle right in front of you. The restaurant combines the theatrical energy of teppanyaki—where skilled chefs flip, chop, and flame-cook ingredients with precision—with a full sushi bar serving rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. The experience is part dinner, part performance, making it a destination for both casual meals and special occasions.

Hibachi88 operates in South Carolina with locations that serve both the teppanyaki counter seating and traditional table dining. The restaurant draws regulars for weeknight dinners and hosts larger groups and celebrations at the teppanyaki tables, where the chef's showmanship becomes part of the meal itself.

Key Takeaways

• Hibachi88 serves teppanyaki-cooked entrees at a chef-manned griddle table, where you watch your meal prepared with live cooking techniques.
• The sushi menu runs parallel to the teppanyaki side, offering rolls and nigiri for diners who prefer raw fish over cooked griddle fare.
• Teppanyaki seating is best for groups and celebrations, since the chef's performance and shared table energy suit those occasions.
• Pricing reflects the teppanyaki experience—entrees cost more than standard Japanese restaurants, but the performance and portion size justify the difference for most diners.

The teppanyaki experience and what to expect

When you sit at a teppanyaki table, you are seated with other diners around a large flat iron griddle. The chef stands on the opposite side and cooks your entire meal—protein, vegetables, fried rice or noodles—in front of you. This is not a gimmick; the cooking method produces a specific texture and flavor, with high heat creating a slight char on vegetables and proteins while keeping interiors tender.

The chef's routine includes knife work, theatrical flips, and sometimes small flames for effect. Expect the meal to take 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. Appetizers (usually edamame or gyoza) arrive first, then the chef begins the main course. The pace is deliberate, and conversation flows naturally around the cooking. Children often enjoy the spectacle, though very young diners may find the noise and heat overwhelming.

Teppanyaki entrees typically include a protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, or scallops), vegetables (zucchini, onion, mushroom, broccoli), and a starch (fried rice or noodles). Portions are substantial. Most diners leave full, and leftovers are common. The chef seasons as they cook, so you taste the meal as it develops rather than receiving a plated dish that has cooled.

Sushi and rolls at Hibachi88

The sushi menu stands independent of the teppanyaki side. You can order rolls, nigiri, and sashimi without sitting at a teppanyaki table. The sushi bar serves both counter seating and table orders. Rolls range from classic options (California, spicy tuna, Philadelphia) to house specials that vary by location. Nigiri selections typically include salmon, tuna, yellowtail, and seasonal fish.

Sushi portions and pricing fall in line with other Japanese restaurants in South Carolina. A typical roll costs between $6 and $14, depending on ingredients and whether it is a specialty roll. Nigiri runs $3 to $5 per piece. Many diners combine sushi with a teppanyaki entree, ordering rolls as an appetizer or side, though this increases the total bill.

Pricing and what you pay for

Teppanyaki entrees run higher than standard restaurant pricing because you are paying for the chef's labor, the griddle-side experience, and the portion size. Most teppanyaki dinners fall between $20 and $35 per person before drinks and tax. The exact price depends on your protein choice—chicken is typically the least expensive, while steak and seafood cost more.

Sushi rolls and nigiri are priced competitively with other Japanese restaurants. A full sushi dinner (several rolls plus nigiri) typically costs $20 to $30 per person. Many locations offer lunch specials with lower prices on both teppanyaki and sushi during midday hours, usually 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.

Best times to visit and how to reserve

Teppanyaki tables fill quickly during dinner hours, especially Friday and Saturday nights. If you want to sit at the griddle, reservations are strongly recommended. Most Hibachi88 locations take phone reservations and may also accept online booking through their website or third-party platforms. Walk-ins can usually be seated at the sushi bar or regular tables, but teppanyaki seating without a reservation may mean a wait of 30 minutes to an hour during peak times.

Lunch is quieter and easier to walk into, particularly on weekdays. If you are dining with a large group (six or more), call ahead to confirm the restaurant can accommodate you at a teppanyaki table. Some locations have multiple griddles and can split large parties across tables; others may seat you in shifts.

Dietary considerations and customization

Teppanyaki cooking allows for straightforward customization. Tell the chef about allergies or foods you do not eat, and they will adjust the vegetables and preparation. Vegetarian teppanyaki is available at most locations—the chef cooks vegetables, tofu, and noodles or rice on the griddle. Gluten-free diners should confirm with the restaurant, as soy sauce and some seasonings contain gluten, though many locations can accommodate requests.

The sushi menu offers vegetarian rolls (cucumber, avocado, pickled radish) and cooked options (shrimp tempura, crab, cooked tuna) for diners who prefer not to eat raw fish. Allergies to shellfish or specific fish varieties should be communicated to the sushi chef before ordering.

Hibachi88 locations in South Carolina

Hibachi88 operates multiple locations across South Carolina. The exact addresses and hours vary by location, so confirm details on the restaurant's website or by phone before visiting. Most locations are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, though some may have reduced hours on Sundays or Mondays. Parking is typically available on-site or in a shared lot.

Each location maintains the same core menu and teppanyaki experience, though some may feature regional specials or slightly different sushi offerings. If you have a preference for a particular location or want to confirm they have availability for a large group, contact the restaurant directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to sit at the teppanyaki table, or can I order teppanyaki at a regular table?

Most Hibachi88 locations serve teppanyaki only at the chef-manned griddle tables. If you want the teppanyaki experience, you sit at the griddle. However, you can order sushi and other items at regular tables. Some locations may have exceptions, so call ahead if you have a specific seating preference.

How long does a teppanyaki meal take?

Plan for 30 to 45 minutes from the time you sit down to when your main course is finished. Appetizers arrive first, then the chef cooks your meal to order. The pace is deliberate and part of the experience, not a rushed service.

Can I bring a large group for a birthday or celebration?

Yes. Call the restaurant in advance to reserve teppanyaki tables for your group. Most locations can accommodate 8 to 12 people at a single griddle or split larger groups across multiple tables. The chef often acknowledges birthdays and special occasions during the meal.

What if I do not like raw fish?

Teppanyaki is cooked on the griddle, so all proteins are heated. The sushi menu includes cooked rolls (shrimp tempura, crab, cooked tuna) and vegetarian options. You can order teppanyaki without any sushi involvement.

Is there a dress code?

Hibachi88 is casual dining. No formal dress code applies. Comfortable, everyday clothing is standard. Some locations may request that you avoid very casual beachwear if you are dining during peak hours, but this is not strict.