Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi in South Carolina: What to Expect

What Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi offers

Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi combines two distinct dining experiences under one roof: traditional pizza made to order and tableside hibachi cooking where chefs prepare your meal in front of you. The restaurant brings Japanese hibachi theater to South Carolina while maintaining a full pizza menu, so diners can choose between watching a chef work an iron griddle or ordering from the pizza kitchen. Both sides operate from the same location, letting groups split between preferences without going to separate restaurants.

The hibachi side follows the teppanyaki format common to Japanese steakhouses across the country. A chef stands at a large flat griddle built into your table, chopping and cooking proteins, vegetables, and fried rice with theatrical flair—flipping shrimp into their hat, stacking onion rings, igniting the grill. The pizza side runs as a standard pizzeria with a wood-fired or traditional oven, offering pies with various toppings and crust styles. Both kitchens operate simultaneously, so you're not waiting for one side to finish before the other starts.

Key Takeaways

• Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi serves both made-to-order pizza and tableside hibachi cooking, so you can choose your dining style when you arrive.
• Hibachi seating is typically shared with other diners at a communal table, and the chef's performance is part of the meal experience.
• Pizza orders move faster than hibachi, which requires the chef to cook your entire meal at the table—plan for 45 minutes to an hour for hibachi service.
• Reservations are strongly recommended for hibachi, especially on weekends, because tables fill quickly and the chef can only serve a limited number of guests per seating.
• The restaurant accommodates both casual walk-ins ordering pizza and groups celebrating occasions at hibachi tables.

How hibachi seating and ordering works

Hibachi dining at Ryan's seats you at a large table with other parties—typically four to eight people total, though the exact number depends on group size and how the restaurant arranges reservations that day. You sit facing the chef across the griddle. Everyone at the table orders from the same menu, and the chef cooks all the meals simultaneously, so your food arrives at roughly the same time as your tablemates'. This shared experience is central to hibachi dining; the chef interacts with the whole table, and diners often watch each other's reactions to the cooking.

When you order, you choose a protein (usually steak, chicken, shrimp, or a combination), vegetables, and fried rice or noodles. The chef begins with onions and other aromatics, building flavor and heat on the griddle before adding your protein. Cooking takes 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Appetizers like edamame or gyoza may arrive while you wait, and the chef typically finishes with a small dessert—often fried ice cream or a simple sweet prepared on the griddle.

Reservations are essential for hibachi. Walk-ins may wait an hour or longer, or be turned away entirely if no tables are available. Call ahead or check the restaurant's website or social media for reservation options. Many hibachi restaurants use online booking systems or ask you to call directly. Specify the number of people in your party and whether you have a preference for the time of day—some people prefer earlier seatings when the atmosphere is calmer, while others enjoy the energy of busier evening slots.

Pizza ordering and service

The pizza side of Ryan's operates like a traditional pizzeria. You can walk in, order at the counter, and receive your pizza in 15 to 20 minutes depending on oven load and complexity. Pizzas are made to order, so you choose your crust style, sauce, cheese level, and toppings. Most locations offer thin crust, hand-tossed, or specialty crusts, though the exact options depend on which Ryan's location you visit.

Pizza service is faster than hibachi because the oven can cook multiple pies simultaneously and your meal doesn't require a chef's individual attention. You can eat in the dining room, take your order to go, or order for delivery if the location offers it. Families and casual diners often prefer this side of the restaurant because there's no wait for a table and no need to coordinate with strangers.

Atmosphere and what to expect on your visit

The restaurant splits into two distinct zones. The hibachi side is louder and more theatrical—the chef's knife work, the sizzle of the griddle, and the energy of a group meal create an entertainment-focused atmosphere. Conversations at the table tend to be social and celebratory. The pizza side is more casual and relaxed, with standard restaurant seating and the ambient noise of a pizzeria.

Hibachi is popular for birthdays, anniversaries, and group celebrations because the chef often acknowledges special occasions and the shared table creates a party atmosphere. If you're celebrating, mention it when you make your reservation. Pizza side is better for quick meals, families with young children who might find the hibachi environment overwhelming, or anyone who simply prefers a quieter dining experience.

Dress code is casual at both sides. The hibachi side can get warm from the griddle heat, so dress accordingly. If you're sensitive to smoke or strong cooking smells, sit on the pizza side or request a table farther from the hibachi area if possible.

Pricing and what meals typically cost

Hibachi entrees are generally more expensive than pizza because they include the chef's labor, table service, and a full meal (protein, vegetables, fried rice, and appetizers). Expect hibachi entrees to range from the mid-20s to mid-30s per person, though prices vary by protein choice and location. Steak and combination platters cost more than chicken or shrimp. Beverages and dessert are typically separate charges.

Pizza prices follow standard pizzeria rates—a large pie usually costs between $15 and $25 depending on toppings, with specialty or premium pizzas on the higher end. Slices are often available by the piece for $2 to $4 each. Sides like wings, salads, or appetizers add to the bill. Both sides may offer lunch specials or combo deals, so ask when you order or check the menu online.

Location and how to find Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi

Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi operates in South Carolina, though the exact number of locations and their addresses change over time. Search online for "Ryan's Pizza and Hibachi near me" or check Google Maps to find the location closest to you, confirm current hours, and see recent reviews. Some locations may be independently owned franchises, so menu items and pricing can vary slightly between restaurants.

Call ahead before your first visit to confirm they're open and to make a hibachi reservation if that's what you want. Ask about any specials, dietary accommodations, or menu items you're curious about. If you're planning a large group celebration, some locations may offer private hibachi seatings or group packages—inquire when you call.

Dietary considerations and customization

Both the pizza and hibachi sides can accommodate dietary restrictions to some degree. Pizza is easily customizable—you can request no cheese, substitute vegetables for meat, or ask for gluten-free crust if available. Hibachi chefs can typically omit or substitute vegetables and proteins, though you should mention allergies or restrictions when you make your reservation so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.

If you have a severe allergy, speak directly with a manager or chef before ordering. Hibachi griddles are shared cooking surfaces, so cross-contact with other foods is possible. Vegetarian and vegan options exist on both menus, but confirm availability and preparation methods with the restaurant directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to sit with strangers at hibachi?

Yes, hibachi tables are typically shared with other parties. If your group is large enough to fill a table (usually six to eight people), you may be able to reserve a private hibachi table—ask when you call. Otherwise, expect to dine with other guests, which is part of the traditional hibachi experience.

Can I order hibachi without a reservation?

Walk-ins are sometimes possible, but waits can be very long or you may not be seated at all if no tables are available. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and evenings. Call ahead or use the restaurant's online booking system if available.

How long does a hibachi meal take from start to finish?

Plan for 45 minutes to an hour total, including appetizers, the chef's cooking time at the table, and dessert. Pizza service is much faster—typically 15 to 20 minutes from order to plate.

What if I don't like hibachi but my group does?

You can order pizza from the same restaurant while your group sits at the hibachi table. Pizza is prepared in the separate kitchen and can be brought to the hibachi area, or you can eat in the pizza section and meet up afterward.

Are there vegetarian options at hibachi?

Most hibachi menus include vegetable-only platters with tofu, mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, and fried rice. Confirm this option exists at your location and mention any dietary restrictions when you reserve.