Benihana Downtown Chicago Red Carpet Grand Opening!

Chicago has a million different restaurants Downtown alone, but we haven’t had Benihana in Downtown Chicago for over 10 years! So when it was revealed that a location would be opening at the Base of the John Hancock building there was nothing but excitement and love from the local foodies.

Red carpet fun & VIP treatment

I was invited out to walk the Red Carpet and to enjoy the festivities they had plan for the Grand opening celebration. Boy oh boy! They gave us a show. When my sister and I arrived we heard drumming…there was a huge band of Asian drummers on the side of the restaurant entrance . There were two beautiful geisha girls standing at the start of the Red Carpet welcoming everyone. Lastly there was a huge custom backdrop and professional photographer there to capture the night’s fun.

The chefs gave us a show with their knives while showing off their cutting skills before serving us our tasty dinner. I tried the shrimp, chicken, and steak and was floored with the flavor and tenderness of everything. I also had the fried rices and stir fry veggies. My plate was completely cleaned afterwards! A celebratory cheesecake was displayed and later cut for all the guests. We also dined on soup and salad before our entree. The bartenders kept the drinks going all night. Next time you visit make sure you get a “Benihana on the Lake” thank me later!

Don’t get me wrong there are other Benihana locations in IL, but for us city folks a trip Downtown will beat a drive out to the burbs any day! There is a full bar, a sushi station, and plenty of large “Stove” Table tops with comfy chairs surrounding them. Lunch or dinner is truly an experience. I can’t wait to come here with my husband for a fun date night or even bring my girls for a ladies night out. Benihana truly knows how to wow you and your taste buds so a toast of sake to them!