In a world consisting of almost 200 countries, one of the most popular food cuisines is Asian, particularly Japanese cuisine. But when people hear “Japanese cuisine,” they think of traditional sushi rolls served in a calm, peaceful setting. However, Osaka Hibachi & Sushi Bar takes a different approach to Japanese cuisine through its gourmet meals and entertaining hibachi performances.
Osaka is a reputable Japanese restaurant located in Grand Prairie. According to Discover Peoria, they are known for their “tasty classic sushi, signature rolls, and meats grilled table-side,” as well as their entertaining hibachi performance, all in a “warm, relaxed Japanese eatery.” They provide various authentic Japanese dishes that are carefully made with high-quality ingredients, which are reflected in their customer reviews, with 4.0 stars on Tripadvisor and 4.2 stars on Google Reviews. With this feedback in mind, I knew I had to experience the place for myself.
I went there on a Friday evening with my family. Upon entering the front doors, the breezy fall chill suddenly turned into a warm, lively atmosphere. You could hear people talking and laughing, plates clanking and cluttering, and hibachi chefs performing with their charm and enthusiasm. Despite the place being crowded, we were quickly seated at our hibachi table, where our orders were taken shortly after. Our waiter was friendly and patient with us, even though we struggled to communicate over the clatter coming from nearby tables. From there, we had a short wait filled with anticipation before our dishes were served.
The first thing I had was their complimentary Miso Soup and House Salad — and they were both amazing. With its warming taste, perfectly powerful balance of umami and salty flavor, and mushroom and green onion for garnish, the Clear Soup serves as a small yet mighty dish that opens your appetite for more. Moreover, the House Salad, consisting of a simple mixture of salad and greens topped with a creamy and tangy ginger dressing, served as a refreshing contrast to the Miso Soup. Together, they act as contrasting, yin-and-yang starters to open up my appetite for more.
Soon after I finished my soup and salad, the hibachi chef finally arrived. The chef was very energetic, using his charm and expertise to make the Osaka experience much more enjoyable and engaging. While preparing and cooking the fried rice, grilled vegetables, and juicy meats, he performed a series of skillful and comedic tricks and acts, such as the bright, sizzling, fiery depiction of the flames dancing on the stove, known as the “fire-show,” as well as the “onion volcano,” which consists of lighting a stack of onions on fire to emulate a volcano. Alongside these great, flamboyant performances, the hibachi chef also did a spectacular job with preparing everyone’s flavorful hibachi meals — they were savory and grand for sure. The hibachi steak, one of the many meat options for the hibachi dinner, was served on a large plate with heaps of fried rice, grilled vegetables, and diced steak — all for $29.99. The diced steak turned out to be well-done, tender, and juicy, while the fried rice had the right amount of umami and saltiness to bring out the flavor of the steak, and when combined, it could really pack a punch.
All in all, Osaka Hibachi & Sushi Bar provided a new perspective on Japanese cuisine and culture, building off traditionality and tranquility with commotion, entertainment, and large food portions. With patient, pleasant staff, thrilling entertainment, and flavorful food, Osaka will fulfill your stomach with good food and your heart with good memories.
Eagle's Eye Newspaper 