
BEST HIBACHI
Best Hibachi FAQ
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Quick answers about pricing, booking, setup & your party day.
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💰 Pricing & Guest Counts
How many people do you need for a backyard hibachi party?
Best Hibachi usually starts at 10 guests. Smaller parties can book with a $550 minimum food spend, and children’s meals count toward that total. Requirements vary by address; send your ZIP code to confirm.
What is the minimum spend for mobile hibachi catering?
Our usual minimum food spend is $550 in our main service areas, but it is not the same for every location. Adults’ and children’s meals count toward the applicable food minimum; travel fees and gratuity are additional. Share your event address and guest count so we can confirm your minimum before you book. See our hibachi minimum spend and guest requirements for details.
How much does a backyard hibachi chef cost per person?
The standard adult menu is $55 per person with two proteins. Three proteins are $65. Upgrades, travel fees and gratuity are additional.
How does the 5% booking deposit work?
After availability and event details are confirmed, a 5% deposit secures your booking. Confirm the payment instructions with our team before sending it.
How much should I tip the hibachi chef?
A 20% gratuity is suggested. Gratuity is additional to the menu price.
Are children's meals priced lower?
Send the number of children and their ages with your request. Our team will confirm the applicable children's menu and pricing before booking.
What is the difference between the two-protein and three-protein menus?
The two-protein combination is $55 per adult. The three-protein combination is $65 per adult. Premium protein upgrades are additional.
Are there additional service fees or travel charges?
Travel fees vary by event address, and gratuity is additional. Ask for an itemized quote so you can review every applicable charge before booking.
Is tax included in the per-person price?
Ask our team to confirm the tax treatment on your event quote before paying. Do not assume that the displayed menu price is the final total.
How much does a third protein cost?
A third protein is an additional $10 per person.
Can I pay the tip in cash or online?
Cash is an option for party-day payment. If you prefer another way to pay gratuity, confirm it with our team before the event.
What happens if fewer guests attend than booked?
Let us know as soon as your headcount changes. We will confirm whether your order and total can be adjusted; do not assume that absent guests automatically reduce the bill.
How does mobile hibachi pricing compare with a restaurant?
Compare the complete totals: menu choices, upgrades, travel fees and gratuity. At-home hibachi also brings the chef, grill and cooking experience to your own gathering.
Do you offer large-group discounts?
Qualifying corporate groups of 50 or more can start at $45 per person. Send your event details for a group quote.
What payment methods are accepted for the remaining balance?
The remaining balance is paid in cash. Deposits are arranged through Venmo or Zelle. We do not accept credit cards.
Can I book a party for fewer than 10 guests?
Send your date, address and guest count. Smaller parties may be possible depending on availability and location; our team must confirm the arrangement.
How much are filet mignon and lobster upgrades?
Filet mignon is an additional $5, and lobster is an additional $10 per person choosing that upgrade.
🏡 Setup & Weather
What surface does the hibachi grill need?
Send a photo of the proposed cooking area. We need to confirm a suitable, stable setup with safe clearance and access before the event.
How much space does a hibachi chef need?
Allow room for the grill, chef, guest seating and safe clearance. Send photos or measurements so we can check your particular space.
What happens if it rains on party day?
Contact us at least a day ahead to discuss rescheduling or another suitable arrangement, subject to availability. Confirm the plan before the chef travels.
Can hibachi catering be done indoors or in a garage?
Tell us about your space before booking. Indoor or garage cooking must be assessed for equipment suitability, ventilation, clearance and property rules; it is not automatically approved.
Do I need tables, chairs and dinnerware?
Yes. Please provide tables, chairs, plates and utensils for your guests. We bring the chef, grill, ingredients and cooking equipment.
Will the grill fit through my backyard gate?
Send the clear opening width and photos of the access route. Our team will confirm whether the assigned equipment can pass through.
Does the chef need electricity or water?
Share the setup details with our team. Utility requirements depend on the equipment and arrangements for your event.
Can the grill be set up on a wooden deck or patio?
Send photos and describe the surface before booking. The cooking location needs approval for stability, clearance and protection of the property.
How do you protect the deck from oil splatters?
Ask our team what surface protection is available for your assigned setup. Discuss the deck material and cooking location before confirming the event.
What is the bad-weather rescheduling policy?
Contact us at least a day ahead about forecast concerns. Our team will confirm available dates and the terms that apply to your booking.
Can I host hibachi at a park or rented venue?
Check the venue's outside-catering and cooking rules first. Send the location, access details and any permit or insurance requirements so we can assess the event.
How wide is the hibachi grill cart?
Equipment dimensions can vary. Send your narrowest doorway or gate measurement and ask our team to confirm the dimensions of the assigned grill.
What should I prepare before the chef arrives?
Have tables, chairs, plates and utensils ready. Keep the approved cooking area and access route clear, and send any setup questions before party day.
Can I host hibachi in an apartment or condo courtyard?
Confirm permission with the property manager first. We also need to review the courtyard, grill access, cooking rules and safe clearance.
What happens if it is very windy?
Contact us about the forecast and exposure of the cooking area. The chef will assess conditions, and flame effects or the cooking plan may need to change.
What does the hibachi chef bring?
The chef brings a portable grill, cooking equipment, fresh ingredients and the hibachi cooking experience. You provide seating and tableware.
Can the host sit with guests during the party?
Yes. The chef handles the cooking so you can enjoy dinner with your group. Have the guest seating, tableware and approved setup ready beforehand.
🍱 Menu & Dietary Needs
Which proteins are available in the hibachi combinations?
The standard combination includes two protein choices; the three-protein option adds one for $10. Check the current menu for available proteins and premium upgrades.
Can guests bring their own drinks?
Please confirm the arrangements for your event and follow the property's rules. Ask about complimentary sake for eligible adults where offered.
Can you accommodate gluten-free requests?
Tell us about the dietary need before booking. Ingredients, sauces and shared cooking equipment must be reviewed; do not assume every dish is gluten-free.
Do you offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Tofu and vegetables are options to discuss. For a vegan meal, ask us to confirm the ingredients, sauces and cooking arrangements before placing the order.
How do you handle severe peanut or shellfish allergies?
Tell us the exact allergy and severity before booking. Shared equipment and ingredients require a careful review; we cannot promise an allergen-free meal without confirming whether the request can be accommodated.
Are noodles and fried rice both included?
Check the current menu and confirm the sides on your event order. Our team can clarify what is included in your selected package.
Can guests order extra rice or vegetables?
Ask about availability and pricing before finalizing the order so the chef can plan the ingredients.
Do you provide children's meals such as nuggets or plain rice?
Send the children's ages and food requests in advance. Our team will confirm what can be prepared and the price; nuggets are not a confirmed standard menu item.
What sauces are included?
Ask our team to confirm the sauces supplied for your event, especially if guests have ingredient restrictions.
How do I collect protein choices from guests?
Collect each guest's name, protein choices, upgrades and dietary requests in one list. Ask our team how and when to submit the final order.
Can guests supply their own steak or seafood?
Check with our team before bringing outside ingredients. Do not assume the chef can cook food that is not included in the confirmed order.
Is your meat halal or certified kosher?
Ask about the exact sourcing and preparation requirements before booking. We have not confirmed halal or kosher certification as a standard service.
Can I add sushi or sashimi to the event?
Best Hibachi offers sushi services. Send your date, location and requested menu so we can confirm whether sushi can be arranged alongside your hibachi party.
What drinks go well with a hibachi party?
Water, sparkling water and guests' favorite soft drinks are easy choices. For adult beverages, follow venue rules and confirm the sake arrangements with our team.
Do you provide soy sauce, Yum Yum sauce and ginger sauce?
Confirm the available sauces when placing your order. If an ingredient matters for dietary reasons, ask us to check it in advance.
Can each guest choose their own two proteins?
Guests can select proteins for their meals. Collect the choices and premium upgrades in advance and confirm the final order with our team.
Can I book sushi catering without a hibachi grill?
Yes, we offer a separate sushi service. Send your location, date and guest count to check availability and menu arrangements.
🔥 Show & Experience
How early does the hibachi chef arrive?
The chef generally arrives about 10 minutes before the scheduled start. Keep the approved access route and setup area ready.
How long does a backyard hibachi party last?
A typical experience lasts about 90 minutes. Timing can vary with the group size and arrangements.
Is the sake performance suitable for family events?
Tell the chef your preferences in advance. Alcohol is for eligible adults only, and participation is optional.
Can I book hibachi for a wedding or rehearsal dinner?
Yes. Share your guest count, date, venue and cooking restrictions so we can discuss the setup for your celebration.
Can children join a non-alcoholic drink activity?
Discuss an age-appropriate activity with our team before the party. Alcohol must never be served to children, and participation is optional.
Does the chef clean the cooking area afterward?
The chef cleans up the cooking setup after the event. Hosts remain responsible for guest tables, dinnerware and other party cleanup.
What happens to leftover food?
Ask the chef about leftovers and have suitable containers ready. Arrange prompt, appropriate storage after the meal.
Can I request a specific chef?
You can make a request when booking. Assignment depends on the chef's availability and is only confirmed by our team.
Is the onion volcano included at every event?
The onion volcano is part of our hibachi entertainment. Individual flame effects depend on the setting, weather and the chef's assessment.
Can guests join food-tossing games?
Optional interaction can include flying zucchini. Let the chef know who would like to participate and who prefers to watch.
How loud is the hibachi show?
Expect cooking sounds and lively conversation. Tell us about venue quiet hours, neighbors or noise restrictions before booking.
What should guests wear?
Dress for the weather and outdoor seating. Keep loose clothing and personal belongings clear of the cooking area.
Can we play our own music?
Discuss the music plan with the chef and follow the venue's noise rules. Keep the volume low enough for guests to hear instructions.
How is cooking organized for a large group?
Share the guest count and schedule in advance. Our team will confirm the number of chefs and cooking rounds needed for your event.
Is hibachi suitable for children's birthdays?
A family hibachi party can be arranged with age-appropriate interaction. Adults should supervise children and keep them clear of the grill and cooking equipment.
What tricks does the hibachi chef perform?
The experience can include an onion volcano, flying zucchini and chef-led interaction. The exact show varies with the chef, setting and conditions.
Do you offer a free birthday meal?
The Free Birthday Meal offer is available for Monday–Thursday celebrations within one week of the birthday guest’s birthday. One birthday guest receives one complimentary meal per qualifying party. Follow Best Hibachi on social media and share our birthday promotion. Mention the offer when requesting your quote so we can confirm eligibility, the applicable minimum, travel fee, and final total before you reserve.
How do I enter the Best Hibachi Giveaway?
Visit our giveaway page for the current entry instructions and prize details. Follow the listed social-media steps and check the current drawing information.
📍 Service Areas & Travel Fees
Which cities and counties do you serve?
Browse our service-location pages, then send your ZIP code, date and guest count to confirm availability for the exact address.
How is the travel fee calculated?
Travel fees depend on the event address and distance. Some local areas have no travel fee. Ask for the charge for your exact location before booking.
Do you serve Brooklyn and Queens?
You can request parties in Brooklyn and Queens. Send the exact address, date and guest count to confirm availability and the travel fee.
Do you serve Cherry Hill and South Jersey?
We have New Jersey service pages, including South Jersey areas. Send your ZIP code and date for confirmation of your party arrangements.
Can I book in Philadelphia and Montgomery County?
We serve Philadelphia and Montgomery County, PA. Our published local pages list no travel fee for these areas; confirm the exact address when booking.
Do you serve the Jersey Shore and Long Island?
We have service pages for Jersey Shore communities and Long Island. Address, date, guest minimum and travel fee must be confirmed for your event.
Is there a maximum travel distance?
There is no single distance rule listed here for every region. Send your location so our team can check travel feasibility and availability.
Who pays tolls and parking charges?
Tell us about tolls, paid parking and access restrictions when requesting a quote. Ask how any applicable costs will appear on your event total.
Do you serve Maryland and Delaware?
Yes, we have Maryland and Delaware service areas. Send your address and event details to confirm a chef and travel quote.
Can you come to an Airbnb or VRBO rental?
Possibly, with the property owner's permission and a suitable cooking setup. Confirm rental rules first, then share the address, photos and event details.
Do long-distance bookings have a higher guest minimum?
Some areas require at least 15 guests rather than the usual 10. Ask for the requirement for your exact address.
How early should I book a weekend party in my city?
Contact us as soon as you have a likely date. Weekend availability varies by location and date; a booking form alone does not secure the slot.
Can you enter a gated community or private estate?
Share gate codes, entry instructions, parking arrangements and any advance registration requirements before the event.
Can I book several grill setups for events in different cities?
Send every location, date, guest count and schedule. Our team must confirm staffing, equipment and travel arrangements for each event.
Is travel free within 25 miles of your kitchen?
We do not list a universal 25-mile free-travel rule. The fee is confirmed for your event address, so please request a location-specific quote.
📅 Booking & Policies
How far in advance should I book?
Contact us as soon as you have a date, location and estimated guest count. Availability varies, particularly on popular weekends and holidays.
What is the cancellation policy?
Review the cancellation terms supplied for your reservation before paying a deposit. Contact us directly about your date and circumstances.
How do I change my party date?
Contact our team with your reservation details and preferred replacement dates. A new date depends on availability and the terms of your booking.
Can I add guests a few days before the party?
Tell us as soon as the count changes. Additional meals depend on preparation, staffing and available ingredients, and must be confirmed.
What if a guest cancels or becomes ill on party day?
Contact our team promptly. We will explain what changes are possible for the confirmed food order and event total.
Is my deposit refundable if I cancel 14 days ahead?
Do not assume a 14-day refund rule. Check the terms confirmed for your reservation and ask our team before paying or canceling.
How do I submit the final headcount and food order?
Confirm your final guest count at least one day before your party. Send one list with each guest's protein choices, upgrades and dietary requests; our team will confirm the order.
What happens during hurricanes or snowstorms?
Contact our team early to discuss conditions and arrangements. A suitable cooking location and travel conditions are required; rescheduling and payment terms depend on your reservation.
Can I change my menu after booking?
Send the requested changes as soon as possible. We must confirm availability, preparation timing and any change to the total.
How do I reach you urgently on party day?
Text or call 646-578-7312 with your name, event time and address. You can also contact 267-336-5558.
What if the chef is delayed by traffic?
Contact our team for an arrival update. We will discuss timing for your event; please provide a reachable party-day phone number.
Do you offer gift cards or vouchers?
Ask our team about currently available options before purchasing. Gift cards are not confirmed as a standard offering on this page.
Can hosts split the balance or use credit cards?
We do not accept credit cards. The remaining balance is paid in cash; discuss any split-payment arrangement before the party.
Can you provide insurance or licensing documents?
Tell us what documentation your venue requires before booking. Our team must confirm whether the requested documents can be supplied.
What property-damage liability coverage is provided?
Request the applicable insurance documentation and review the booking terms before confirming your event. This FAQ does not promise a particular coverage amount.
Can we extend the chef's time if the party runs late?
Ask in advance. Extra time depends on the chef's schedule and must be agreed with our team, including any charge.
Will I receive a confirmation reminder?
Confirm how booking updates and reminders will be sent, and make sure your phone number and email are correct.
When is the deadline for changing protein choices?
Ask our team for your event's final-order deadline. Send changes early so we can confirm ingredients and preparation.
Can I book within 48 hours?
Send your date, ZIP code and guest count immediately. Last-minute bookings depend on chef availability and preparation time.
What happens if cooking equipment fails?
Contact our team for immediate assistance. The response will depend on the issue and the equipment or staffing available.
Do you cater office or corporate holiday parties?
Yes, corporate events can be requested. Share the venue rules, cooking area, guest count and schedule so we can confirm a suitable setup.
What if the grill cannot get through the gate?
Send gate measurements and access photos before booking. If access is a concern on arrival, contact our team to discuss a suitable alternative before cooking begins.
Can I request an English-, Mandarin- or Japanese-speaking chef?
You can request a language when booking. Our team must confirm whether a suitable chef is available; the request alone is not a guarantee.
Is there an extra charge on major holidays?
Request a quote for the exact holiday and location. Our team will confirm availability and any date-specific charge.
Can I get an itemized invoice for my company?
Request an invoice before booking and provide the company name and required details. Our team will confirm the documentation available.
How do I check availability for my party date?
Submit your date, location and guest count through our booking page, or text us those details. Our team will confirm available options.
Is my date confirmed after I submit the form?
Submitting the form is a request. Your booking is secured after our team confirms availability and the 5% deposit arrangement is completed.
What information should I send for a quote?
Send your preferred date and time, full address or ZIP code, guest count and any menu or setup requests.