Benihana The ONE Group Expands Benihana Presence with New San Mateo Opening
The ONE Group Hospitality, has officially opened its latest location at the Bridgepointe Shopping Center (2204 Bridgepointe Parkway) in San Mateo, California. This expansion further strengthens the company’s presence in Northern California and marks a significant milestone in its ongoing growth strategy.
Strengthening the Benihana Brand in the Bay Area
The launch of Benihana San Mateo is a strategic step for The ONE Group, reinforcing its commitment to offering high-quality teppanyaki dining experiences across the United States. With this new addition, The ONE Group now operates five locations and six overall restaurants in the Bay Area. This expansion aligns with the company’s vision of reaching a total addressable market of 400 domestic locations through a mix of company-owned, franchised, and licensed venues.
Emanuel “Manny” Hilario, CEO of The ONE Group, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating: “We are thrilled to expand our presence in the Bay Area with the opening of our new Benihana in the San Mateo community. We’re committed to providing an unforgettable dining experience where guests can enjoy premium cuisine, exceptional hospitality, and the artistry of teppanyaki cooking brought to life right at their table.”
Hilario emphasized that the San Mateo location is the first new restaurant opening under The ONE Group’s ownership, setting the stage for further expansion in the coming years.
A Signature Teppanyaki Dining Experience
Benihana is renowned for its distinctive tableside teppanyaki experience, where skilled chefs prepare meals in front of guests on a sizzling hibachi grill. The combination of culinary theatrics, high-quality ingredients, and top-tier service ensures that every meal at Benihana is a memorable event—whether it’s a special occasion, a corporate gathering, or a casual night out with family and friends.
Spanning over 7,000 square feet, the San Mateo location blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern touch. The restaurant’s interior features:
- A grand Japanese Torii gate at the entrance
- Rich wooden accents inspired by Japanese craftsmanship
- Traditional Japanese lifestyle artwork
- A real-wood Mt. Fuji art installation, serving as a centerpiece
- A stylish bar and lounge area
With 18 teppanyaki tables and semi-private dining options, the venue provides flexibility for various dining preferences, making it an ideal choice for gatherings of all sizes.
An Exquisite Menu Showcasing Teppanyaki Excellence
Benihana’s menu is a celebration of authentic Japanese flavors, with an emphasis on premium steak, chicken, and seafood selections. Signature teppanyaki offerings include:
- Benihana Onion Soup – A flavorful broth infused with onions and a hint of spices
- Benihana Salad – Crisp greens paired with the restaurant’s signature ginger dressing
- Hibachi Shrimp Appetizer – Fresh shrimp cooked to perfection on the teppanyaki grill
- Hibachi Vegetables – A medley of seasoned vegetables cooked in signature sauces
- Housemade Dipping Sauces – A selection of complementary sauces to enhance each bite
- Steamed Rice – A simple yet essential accompaniment to teppanyaki dishes
- Japanese Hot Green Tea – A traditional beverage to round out the meal
Beyond teppanyaki, also offers an extensive selection of sushi rolls, sashimi, fried rice, small plates, and appetizers. Catering to a diverse clientele, the menu includes a dedicated lifestyle menu featuring options for various dietary preferences, including gluten-sensitive, keto, vegetarian, and vegan guests.
An Inspired Beverage Selection
Benihana’s beverage menu is just as carefully crafted as its food, featuring a range of handcrafted cocktails that elevate the dining experience. Signature drinks include:
- Benihana Punch – A tropical delight made with Myers’s Platinum rum, Bols strawberry and peach liqueurs, and fresh fruit juices, served in a collectible mug
- Red Plum Sake Sangria – A vibrant mix of red wine, sake, plum wine, pomegranate, and orange juices
- Beni-tini – A sophisticated cocktail combining Grey Goose vodka and Iichiko Shochu with hibiscus-infused tea and passion fruit purée
For those who prefer traditional Japanese beverages, offers a curated selection of beer, wine, and sake, including its exclusive Benihana-branded sake.
A Dining Destination for Every Occasion
Benihana San Mateo caters to a broad audience with flexible dining options. Whether guests are looking for a quick lunch, a lively happy hour, or an intimate dinner, the restaurant provides an ideal setting for every occasion. The operating hours ensure accessibility for all:
- Dining Hours:
- Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Lunch:
- Monday-Friday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Happy Hour:
- Monday-Friday: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. (available only in the bar and lounge area)
- Takeout & Delivery:
- Sunday-Thursday: 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 10:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
With options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, Benihana ensures that guests can enjoy its signature dishes in whichever way best suits their lifestyle.
A Milestone for The ONE Group’s Growth Strategy
The opening of Benihana San Mateo represents more than just an expansion—it signifies a major milestone in The ONE Group’s broader strategy to grow its portfolio of Benihana locations nationwide. With increasing demand for immersive dining experiences, The ONE Group is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend by delivering high-quality teppanyaki experiences to new markets.
By leveraging the strengths of the Benihana brand while introducing modern innovations, The ONE Group continues to push the boundaries of what a teppanyaki dining experience can be. As the company looks toward further expansion, guests can anticipate more Benihana locations opening across the country, each bringing with it the signature combination of exceptional cuisine, engaging entertainment, and unparalleled hospitality.
The launch of Benihana San Mateo underscores The ONE Group’s dedication to growth and excellence in the hospitality industry. With its commitment to high-quality ingredients, expertly prepared dishes, and an immersive dining atmosphere, Benihana continues to set the standard for teppanyaki experiences.
As the brand expands, diners can look forward to even more locations offering the same top-tier dining experience that has made Benihana a household name. Whether it’s a family celebration, a business dinner, or a casual night out, Benihana San Mateo invites guests to savor the artistry of teppanyaki in a setting that blends tradition with modern elegance.
For those in the Bay Area looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Benihana San Mateo is now open and ready to welcome guests to a world of culinary entertainment and premium Japanese cuisine.
