Kochi by the Lake: Teppanyaki and Lake Views in Columbia

What Kochi by the Lake Offers

Kochi by the Lake is a teppanyaki restaurant on the Congaree River in downtown Columbia where a chef cooks your meal on an iron griddle at your table while you watch. The restaurant sits in a converted historic building with large windows facing the water, so you get both the performance of teppanyaki cooking and views across the river. The menu centers on beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetables prepared tableside, with each order cooked fresh to order during your meal.

The teppanyaki experience here is interactive—the chef works directly in front of you, chopping ingredients, managing heat, and plating the food as it finishes cooking. This is different from ordering a prepared dish; you are part of the cooking process. The restaurant also serves sushi, appetizers, and drinks, so you can build a full meal around the teppanyaki course or order teppanyaki as your main event.

Key Takeaways

• Kochi by the Lake is located in downtown Columbia with views of the Congaree River and operates in a historic building with a modern interior.
• The teppanyaki chef cooks your meal on an iron griddle at your table, making the cooking itself part of the dining experience.
• The menu includes beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetable teppanyaki options, plus sushi and appetizers.
• Reservations are recommended, especially for groups or weekend dining, because teppanyaki tables have limited seating and each meal takes time to cook.

The Teppanyaki Menu and Pricing

Teppanyaki entrees at Kochi by the Lake typically include a protein (beef, chicken, shrimp, or scallops), vegetables, fried rice, and soup or salad. Combination plates let you choose two proteins if you want to try more than one. Prices vary by protein and market conditions, so calling ahead or checking the website gives you current costs before you arrive.

The restaurant also offers sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi as separate orders or as part of a multi-course meal. Appetizers like edamame, gyoza, and tempura are available if you want to start before the teppanyaki course. Drinks include beer, wine, sake, and non-alcoholic options.

Seating and Table Arrangements

Teppanyaki dining works best with groups because the chef cooks for multiple people at once, and the table is designed for shared experience. Kochi by the Lake has both teppanyaki tables (where the griddle is built in) and regular dining tables. If you are a party of two, you may be seated at a teppanyaki table with other diners, or you can request a regular table and order teppanyaki to be prepared there.

Because each teppanyaki table seats a limited number of people and each meal takes 30 to 45 minutes to cook and eat, the restaurant fills up quickly during peak hours. Making a reservation in advance is the best way to secure a teppanyaki table, especially on Friday and Saturday nights or for groups larger than four.

Location and River Views

Kochi by the Lake sits in downtown Columbia near the Congaree River, giving diners views of the water and the surrounding riverfront. The building itself is historic, but the interior has been updated with modern finishes and large windows that frame the river. The location puts you close to other downtown attractions, shops, and galleries if you want to explore before or after your meal.

Parking is available nearby, though downtown parking can be tight during peak times. The restaurant's proximity to the river and the historic district makes it a destination for both special occasions and casual dinners when you want to combine good food with a view.

What to Expect During Your Meal

When you sit at a teppanyaki table, the chef arrives with your order and begins cooking immediately. You will see them chop vegetables, manage the heat on the griddle, and cook your protein to your preferred doneness. The chef typically works with theatrical flair—flipping ingredients, creating onion volcanoes, and engaging with diners—though the primary goal is cooking your food well.

The meal unfolds in stages: vegetables and fried rice cook first, then the protein finishes last so it reaches your plate hot. Soup or salad comes before the main course. The whole experience from start to finish usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, so plan accordingly if you have time constraints.

When to Visit and How to Reserve

Kochi by the Lake is open for lunch and dinner most days, though hours vary by day of the week. Lunch is typically less crowded than dinner, so if you want a more relaxed teppanyaki experience, a weekday lunch may be easier to book. Dinner service, especially Friday through Sunday, fills up quickly.

To reserve a table, call the restaurant directly or check their website for online booking options. When you call, let them know you want a teppanyaki table and how many people are in your party. If you do not have a reservation and want to dine at a teppanyaki table, you may have a wait, and there is no may provide a table will be available during your preferred time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a reservation for just two people at a teppanyaki table?

Yes, though you may be seated with other diners at the same table, or the restaurant may offer you a regular table instead. Call ahead to ask about their policy for small parties and teppanyaki seating. Some restaurants pair small groups to fill a table; others keep teppanyaki tables for larger reservations.

What if I do not eat meat?

Kochi by the Lake offers vegetable and seafood teppanyaki options. You can order a teppanyaki plate with shrimp, scallops, or just vegetables and fried rice. Sushi and appetizers also include vegetarian choices. Mention any dietary restrictions when you reserve so the chef knows in advance.

How long does a teppanyaki meal take?

Plan for 45 minutes to an hour from the time you sit down until your meal is finished. This includes soup or salad, the teppanyaki cooking and eating, and any time between courses. If you are on a tight schedule, let the restaurant know when you reserve.

Is Kochi by the Lake good for a special occasion?

Yes. The teppanyaki experience is interactive and celebratory, and the river views add to the atmosphere. Many people choose teppanyaki restaurants for birthdays, anniversaries, and other events. Call when you reserve to mention the occasion; some restaurants will note it for the chef.

Do I need to dress up?

Kochi by the Lake is casual to business casual. You do not need formal wear, but neat, clean clothes are expected. If you are unsure, calling the restaurant to ask about dress code for your specific visit is always an option.