What Time Does Dinner Start At Benihana?
Wondering what time does dinner start at Benihana? If you’re planning a visit to this popular Japanese steakhouse, knowing their dinner hours can help you schedule your evening perfectly. Benihana is well-known for its entertaining teppanyaki-style cooking, where chefs prepare your meal right at the table with impressive skills and flair. Whether you’re going for a casual dinner with friends, a family celebration, or a date night, timing your arrival is key to getting the full experience without any rush.
Dinner hours at Benihana can vary by location, but generally, they start in the early evening, often around 5 PM. Knowing the exact time dinner service begins at your nearest Benihana ensures you don’t miss out on their delicious menu and lively atmosphere. In this guide, you’ll find helpful details about Benihana’s dinner start times and tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Benihana Dinner Hours Availability
Benihana typically begins serving dinner in the early evening, usually around 5 PM, though the exact start time can vary depending on the location. Most Benihana restaurants maintain consistent dinner hours throughout the week, offering a convenient window for guests to enjoy their famous teppanyaki experience. Dinner service often continues until 10 PM or later, providing ample time for both early diners and those looking for a late evening meal.
It’s always a good idea to check with your local Benihana beforehand, as hours may shift slightly on weekends, holidays, or special occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual night out or a special celebration, knowing the dinner hours helps you reserve a spot at the perfect time and ensures you get the full interactive dining experience Benihana is known for.
Typical Dinner Start Times at Benihana
At most Benihana locations, dinner service usually begins around 5 PM, marking the start of an exciting evening filled with delicious food and captivating teppanyaki cooking shows. This start time is common across many locations, making it easy to plan your visit whether it’s a weekday or weekend. Some restaurants might open dinner a little earlier or later, typically between 4:30 PM and 6 PM, depending on local demand and operational hours.
It’s important to note that during busy weekends or holidays, dinner service might start earlier to accommodate more guests. If you want to secure a prime spot for your dining experience, especially during peak times, it’s best to check the exact start time of dinner at your preferred Benihana and consider making a reservation. This ensures you won’t miss any of the entertainment or the freshly prepared meals that define the Benihana experience.
Factors Influencing Dinner Start Times
When planning a visit to Benihana, understanding the factors that influence dinner start times can help you better schedule your evening. While many locations follow a general dinner schedule, several variables affect exactly when dinner service begins. Below, we explore the main influences, including location differences and special events or holidays.
Location Variations
One of the biggest factors affecting when dinner starts at Benihana is the specific restaurant location. Benihana operates in many cities and regions, and local customs, demand, and business regulations can all impact operating hours.
For example, Benihana locations in busy metropolitan areas might start dinner earlier, around 4:30 or 5 PM, to cater to the high volume of diners looking for an early evening meal. In contrast, suburban or less crowded locations might begin dinner service a bit later, closer to 6 PM, reflecting lower early evening demand.
Additionally, local laws and ordinances may affect opening hours. Some areas have regulations regarding restaurant operating times or require specific licenses for serving food after certain hours. These local rules can shift dinner start times either earlier or later compared to other Benihana restaurants. To get the most accurate information, it’s always recommended to check the hours of your preferred Benihana location directly, either on their website or by calling the restaurant.
| Location | Weekday Dinner Start | Weekday Dinner End | Weekend Dinner Start | Weekend Dinner End |
| New York, NY | 5:00 PM | 10:00 PM | 4:30 PM | 11:00 PM |
| Los Angeles, CA | 5:30 PM | 10:30 PM | 5:00 PM | 11:00 PM |
| Chicago, IL | 5:00 PM | 9:30 PM | 5:00 PM | 10:30 PM |
| Houston, TX | 6:00 PM | 10:00 PM | 5:30 PM | 10:30 PM |
Special Events and Holidays
Special events and holidays also significantly influence Benihana’s dinner start times. During holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, Benihana often adjusts its hours to accommodate larger crowds and special celebrations. On these occasions, dinner service might start earlier than usual, sometimes opening as early as 4 PM, to allow guests plenty of time to enjoy their meals and festivities.
Similarly, local or national events—such as sports games, festivals, or community celebrations—can cause temporary changes in dinner hours. Benihana might extend or shift its dinner service to match expected guest flow, ensuring that diners can experience their signature teppanyaki without feeling rushed or turned away.
For those planning to visit during busy times or special occasions, making a reservation is especially important. It helps guarantee a spot during adjusted dinner hours and provides a smoother dining experience.
| Date | Special Occasion | Adjusted Dinner Start | Adjusted Dinner End |
| Christmas Eve | Holiday | 4:00 PM | 10:00 PM |
| New Year’s Eve | Holiday | 4:00 PM | 11:00 PM |
| Thanksgiving | Holiday | 5:00 PM | 9:00 PM |
| Local Festival | Special Event | 4:30 PM | 10:30 PM |
Benihana Reservations and Dinner Timing
Making a reservation at Benihana can greatly enhance your dining experience, especially when it comes to dinner timing. Since Benihana is known for its interactive teppanyaki cooking and lively atmosphere, dinner slots often fill up quickly, particularly during peak hours, weekends, and holidays. Reserving your table in advance ensures you get the preferred dinner start time without waiting.
Many locations allow you to book online or by phone, making it easy to secure your spot. Arriving on time for your reservation is important to enjoy the full show and meal without feeling rushed. If you’re flexible with timing, opting for an earlier or later dinner reservation can sometimes mean a more relaxed atmosphere and quicker seating. Overall, planning ahead with reservations helps you make the most of your Benihana dinner experience.
Early Dinner Options at Benihana
For those who prefer to dine earlier in the evening, Benihana offers convenient early dinner options that start around 4:30 to 5 PM at many locations. Choosing an early dinner time can be a great way to avoid the busiest hours and enjoy a more relaxed, intimate dining experience. Early diners often benefit from shorter wait times and more attentive service, making it perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting to beat the dinner rush.
Additionally, some Benihana locations may offer special early bird menus or promotions during these hours, adding extra value to your meal. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet evening or want to make it to other plans afterward, the early dinner option at Benihana is an excellent choice for a delicious and entertaining teppanyaki experience.
Late Dinner Availability
If you’re someone who enjoys dining later in the evening, Benihana often accommodates late dinner guests by keeping its doors open until 10 PM or even later at many locations. Late dinner availability is ideal for those with busy daytime schedules or who prefer a more leisurely evening out. Dining late at Benihana means you can still experience the excitement of the teppanyaki chef’s performance without the crowds typical of earlier dinner hours.
However, it’s worth noting that late-night reservations can fill up quickly on weekends and special occasions, so booking in advance is recommended. Some locations may have slightly reduced menu options later in the evening, but you can still expect the same quality and flavorful dishes that Benihana is known for. Late dinners offer a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a nightcap meal or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Benihana Lunch vs Dinner Timing
Benihana offers distinct lunch and dinner hours to cater to different dining preferences. Lunch service usually starts around 11:30 AM or noon and continues until mid-afternoon, typically ending around 2:30 or 3 PM. This timing is perfect for a midday meal, whether you’re on a work break or enjoying a casual outing. Dinner service, on the other hand, generally begins around 5 PM and extends into the evening, often until 10 PM or later.
Dinner at Benihana is especially popular for its lively teppanyaki shows and is often considered a more social, festive experience compared to lunch. While lunch tends to be quicker and sometimes offers smaller portions or special lunch menus, dinner provides a more relaxed atmosphere with the full menu and entertainment. Knowing the difference in timing helps you choose the best time for your visit based on your schedule and dining goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does Dinner Typically Start At Benihana?
Dinner at Benihana usually starts around 5 PM at most locations. However, this can vary slightly depending on the city and specific restaurant. Some locations may begin dinner service as early as 4:30 PM or as late as 6 PM. It’s always best to check with your local Benihana to confirm the exact start time.
Does Benihana Dinner Start Time Change On Weekends?
Yes, dinner start times at Benihana can differ on weekends compared to weekdays. Many locations open dinner service a bit earlier on weekends, often around 4:30 PM to accommodate larger crowds and weekend diners. This allows you more flexibility when planning a weekend visit.
Can I Make A Reservation For A Specific Dinner Time At Benihana?
Absolutely! Making a reservation lets you secure your preferred dinner start time, especially during busy periods or weekends. You can usually book online or by phone, ensuring you won’t have to wait for a table and can enjoy the full dining experience right on schedule.
Are There Special Dinner Hours During Holidays Or Events At Benihana?
Yes, Benihana often adjusts its dinner hours during holidays and special events. For example, on occasions like Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, dinner service might start earlier to accommodate larger groups and festive celebrations. Checking ahead for holiday hours can help you plan your visit better.
What Should I Do If I Arrive Before Dinner Service Starts At Benihana?
If you arrive before dinner service begins, some Benihana locations may offer seating in the lounge or bar area where you can wait comfortably. It’s a good idea to confirm this when making your reservation. Alternatively, you can explore nearby attractions or grab a drink before your dinner time starts.
Conclusion
Knowing what time does dinner start at Benihana helps you plan your visit to enjoy a seamless and entertaining dining experience. While most Benihana locations begin dinner service around 5 PM, start times can vary slightly depending on the city, day of the week, or special occasions like holidays. Making a reservation is a smart way to secure your preferred dinner slot and avoid waiting, especially during busy weekends or festive periods.
Whether you prefer an early dinner to beat the rush or a late dinner to unwind, Benihana offers flexible options to suit your schedule. Checking your local restaurant’s specific hours before heading out ensures you won’t miss the exciting teppanyaki show and delicious food that make Benihana a unique dining destination.