Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before booking Hibachi Catering for your event. Need menu inspiration? Visit the Menus & Packages page, explore the event gallery, or reserve now.

📅 Reservations & Payments

Fill out the form at https://hibachisocal.com/pick-your-style. We’ll need your event date, guest count, city & ZIP, and menu selection. Once confirmed, we’ll send the deposit link.

At least 2 weeks before your event.

Yes, with proper notice. Cancellation policies apply.

💵 Pricing, Fees & Gratuity

Pricing depends on the menu. All prices are per person plus tax.

Yes: $3/mile travel fee from ZIP 92562, service fee (3%), taxes, and 18% gratuity for events over 20 guests.

Tips are not included (except for large groups). Chefs appreciate them directly.

👥 Guest Count & Group Size

Mon–Thu: 2 guests min. | Fri–Sun: 10 guests min. Up to 300 guests with multiple stations.

Yes, with at least 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability.

🍽️ Food & Menu

Chef, grill, propane, tables, chairs, linens, utensils, hibachi veggies, rice, sauces, live cooking show (with tricks & optional fire show).

Yes, you can mix and match proteins, seafood, and sides.

Yes, we offer a full vegetarian option.

Yes, just inform us in advance.

Soda, water, sake, and Ramune (Japanese soda) — $3–$6.

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own.

🧑‍🍳 Service Timing & Setup

Approx. 3 hours: 1hr setup, 1hr cooking, 1hr cleanup.

About 1 hour before service to begin setup.

A flat 12×8 ft area per station.

Yes, as long as there’s flat space and access.

No, we bring everything needed.

🔥 Entertainment & Experience

Yes: cooking show with tricks, small fire show (if ventilation allows), optional fire show upgrade.

🏡 Event Location

Yes. Outdoors preferred. Indoors requires proper ventilation and backup plan for weather.

Yes, but clients must secure any required permits.

⚠️ Licensing & Safety

Yes — we carry commercial insurance, business license, and Health Department permits.

🔄 Flexible Services

Yes, please contact us for more information.

Yes. Additional chefs available for large groups or upon request for an extra fee.