Best Hibachi In Los Angeles

According to Japanese history, the hibachi came into existence somewhere during the Heian period of 798-1185 AD. Originally made from cypress wood lined with clay, the first hibachis were commonly used for heating and later as portable stoves for soldiers in WWII. It's when the hibachi made the transition from the battlefield to the kitchen that Americans fell in love with the savory flavors of hibachi-style cooking. From fish to steak to tangy BBQ, check out these top five places for the best hibachi in Los Angeles.

Korean Kitchen Hibachi Barbeque
135 Japanese Village Plaza Mall
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 680-1039

A small place and small menu certainly doesn't translate into small portions at Korean Kitchen Hibachi Barbeque. Go in for the incredible lunch specials and have enough left over for dinner as well. The only problem will be what to order. Medium spicy chicken or shrimp barbecue seem to be the customer favorites. There are also vegetarian dishes, hot pots and sushi available.

Totoraku
10610 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 838-9881

For an experience meat lovers won't soon forget, there's Totoraku. Dinner is by invitation only and the invitations are extended by Chef Kaz. Dinner is a three- to four-hour multi-course meal with many fine cuts of meat, some of which are served raw. Toraraku is a BYOB type of place and for a better chance of being invited back, offer Chef Kaz and his wife a glass of wine or two during your dinner. Hint: he likes Beringer Reserve.

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Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
14457 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
(818) 501-5400
www.gyu-kaku.com

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is a great date place where you can show off your grilling skills right at the table. It is equipped with everything you need to sear, BBQ and grill most of your fish, chicken or meat choices to your liking. Gyu-Kaku offers party prices for groups of four or more. Get there early for a cheap happy hour and stay for dinner. There are several locations in LA to choose from and reservations are highly recommended, but be prepared to wait anyway.

Nanbankan
11330 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90189
(310) 478-1591

If you like food on a stick, you'll love Nanbankan. From meatballs to squid tentacles to eggplant, you will find everything on the menu to arrive hot, tender, juicy and on a stick. Choosing may be difficult so go with a group to sample an array of items. Or you can order the 'complete dinner' and have the assortment chosen for you. Service is friendly with a small parking lot in the back.

Eat Shabu
930 Broadway, Suite B
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 899-9494
www,eatshabu.com

A modern and hip atmosphere with delicious food you cook yourself is what you can expect at Eat Shabu. Cook fresh meats, fish and vegetables of the best quality in a hot pot under the guidance of one of the many friendly servers there to help. Eat Shabu is known for its savory Ponzu and Goma sauces. The best part is the soup at the end made from all of the leftovers from the pot. And be sure to hit the restroom to check out some amazing art.

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