Yummi Japanese Hibachi & Sushi: What to Expect and How to Order

Yummi brings tableside hibachi cooking and fresh sushi to the Midlands

Yummi Japanese Hibachi & Sushi is a full-service restaurant in Columbia that combines two distinct dining experiences under one roof: a hibachi grill section where chefs cook in front of you, and a sushi bar where you can order rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. The hibachi side seats groups around large flat-top grills, while the sushi bar and dining room offer traditional table seating. You'll find both cooked proteins and raw fish preparations, so whether you want to watch your meal being prepared with theatrical flair or sit quietly with a California roll and miso soup, Yummi accommodates both styles.

The restaurant works best when you know which experience you're after. Hibachi requires advance planning and group coordination; sushi bar and regular table seating are walk-in friendly. Both sides of the menu include vegetarian options, and the kitchen can work with dietary restrictions if you call ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Hibachi seating is best for groups and requires advance reservations, especially on weekends, because tables fill quickly once a chef begins cooking.
• The sushi menu includes traditional rolls, nigiri, and sashimi, plus cooked options like teriyaki chicken and shrimp tempura for those who prefer no raw fish.
• Dinner service runs later than lunch, and hibachi chefs typically work only during dinner hours, so call ahead if you want the full experience.
• Parking is available on-site, and the restaurant accommodates both walk-ins at the sushi bar and reservation-only hibachi seating.

How hibachi seating works and what to order

At the hibachi tables, a chef cooks your entire meal on a large flat-top griddle directly in front of your group—usually four to eight people per table. You order from a menu that includes proteins (beef, chicken, shrimp, scallops, or combinations), vegetables, fried rice, and noodles. The chef prepares everything tableside, often with knife tricks and theatrical plating. Appetizers like edamame and gyoza come first, then the main course follows. The experience is social and interactive; the chef engages with your group throughout the meal.

Hibachi seating requires a reservation because the restaurant coordinates when enough people have booked to fill a table and assign a chef. Walk-ins cannot be seated at hibachi unless a table happens to be available, which is rare during dinner service. Weekends book up days in advance, so plan ahead if you want this experience. The cost per person typically ranges based on your protein choice, and there is usually a minimum spend or per-person charge for hibachi seating. Expect the entire experience to last 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish.

Sushi bar and traditional dining options

If you prefer to sit at a regular table or at the sushi bar, you can order à la carte without a reservation. The sushi menu features classic rolls like spicy tuna, California, Philadelphia, and dragon rolls, plus nigiri (fish over rice) and sashimi (fish alone). Cooked options include teriyaki chicken, shrimp tempura, tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), and donburi bowls with rice. Appetizers span edamame, miso soup, seaweed salad, and fried items like tempura vegetables and gyoza.

The sushi bar itself is a good spot if you want to watch the sushi chefs work and ask questions about the day's fish or get recommendations. Sitting at the bar also tends to be faster for lunch or when you're dining alone or as a pair. Prices for sushi rolls typically fall in the mid-range for the region, and combination platters offer a way to sample multiple items. Walk-ins are welcome during most hours, though calling ahead during peak times (Friday and Saturday evenings) reduces wait time.

Hours, location, and how to make a reservation

Yummi is located in Columbia and is open for both lunch and dinner service. Lunch hours are typically shorter and lighter, while dinner is when the full menu and hibachi experience are available. The restaurant is closed on certain days of the week—verify the current schedule by calling or checking their website, as hours can shift seasonally.

To reserve a hibachi table, call the restaurant directly. Have your preferred date, time, number of guests, and protein preferences ready. If you're booking for a special occasion or a large group, mention that when you call—some restaurants offer special arrangements or pricing. For sushi bar or regular table seating, you can walk in, though calling ahead during peak times reduces wait time and lets the kitchen prepare for your arrival.

Parking and what to expect when you arrive

Yummi has on-site parking, so you won't need to hunt for street parking. The lot is shared with other businesses in the shopping center, and spaces are usually available except during the busiest dinner hours on weekends. The restaurant entrance is accessible from the parking lot, and the interior layout accommodates standard seating and hibachi tables.

When you arrive for a hibachi reservation, staff will seat your group at your assigned table and introduce your chef. The atmosphere in the hibachi section is lively and can be loud, especially during peak hours, so it's not ideal if you're seeking a quiet meal. The sushi bar and regular dining areas are calmer. Bring cash or card—confirm payment methods when you call. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, mention them when you reserve or order, and the kitchen can accommodate many requests.

Group dining and special occasions

Hibachi is ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and group celebrations because the chef's performance and the shared table create a memorable experience. If you're planning a special event, call ahead and describe the occasion—the restaurant may be able to coordinate timing or special touches. Large groups (eight or more) should book as far in advance as possible to ensure all party members can be seated together.

For corporate outings or team-building events, hibachi offers a structured, interactive meal that keeps groups engaged. The sushi bar and regular dining are better suited to business lunches or quieter gatherings where conversation is the priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for sushi bar seating?

No. You can walk in and sit at the sushi bar or a regular table without a reservation. Reservations are required only for hibachi seating, where the restaurant coordinates group sizes and chef availability.

Can I order hibachi if I'm dining alone or with one other person?

Hibachi tables are designed for groups of four or more to share the experience and cost. If you're two people, you may be able to join another party at a table, or you can order from the regular menu at a standard table instead. Call the restaurant to ask about combining small parties.

What's the difference between the hibachi and sushi bar menus?

Both serve sushi and cooked Japanese dishes, but hibachi is a specific tableside cooking experience with set menus built around proteins and fried rice. The sushi bar and regular dining offer more flexibility to order individual rolls, nigiri, or cooked entrées à la carte.

How far in advance should I book hibachi seating?

For weekday dinners, a few days ahead is usually sufficient. For Friday and Saturday nights, book at least a week in advance, especially if you have a large group or want a specific time. Call the restaurant to check current availability.

Is there a dress code?

Yummi is casual dining, so standard restaurant attire is fine. No formal dress code is enforced, though you may want to avoid very loose clothing if you're seated close to the hibachi grill, as the heat and occasional sparks are part of the experience.