Our Story & Heritage

About King Hibachi

Discover the passion, tradition, and artistry behind every flame.From Osaka's ancient techniques to Salinas' vibrant food scene.

Our Origins

Our Story Begins in Osaka, Japan

King Hibachi was founded in 2022 by second-generation teppanyaki chef Kenji Matsuda, who brought his family's cherished Osaka hibachi traditions to the vibrant streets of Salinas.

Our mission is clear: to deliver live-fire Japanese grilling and authentic street-side spectacle to California's Central Coast, creating unforgettable culinary experiences that honor both tradition and innovation.

15+
Years of Mastery
Chef Kenji's experience
2022
Founded
Bringing tradition to Salinas
100%
Fresh Daily
Hand-cut meats & ingredients
3rd
Generation
Family teppanyaki tradition
Traditional Japanese hibachi grilling techniques
Authentic Osaka Tradition
Premium ingredients and hibachi preparation
USDA Choice Quality
Our Method

The King Hibachi Way

We source USDA Choice meats and hand-cut them daily to ensure optimal freshness and flavor. Our rice is steamed fresh every 60 minutes for the perfect texture and taste.

Our proprietary garlic-soy butter is finished on the flat-top seconds before your meal is plated. Every dish is prepared live, with the energy and artistry of true teppanyaki mastery.

1
Hand-cut premium meats daily
2
Fresh rice steamed every 60 minutes
3
Live preparation with theatrical artistry
Meet Our Master

Meet Our Chef

The heart and soul behind every flame, bringing generations of expertise to your plate.

Chef Kenji Matsuda in red hat crossing spatula and fork
Master Chef

Chef-Owner Kenji Matsuda

15 years hibachi mastery

Born into a family of teppanyaki chefs in Osaka, Kenji learned the art of hibachi grilling from his father and grandfather. After perfecting his craft in Japan's most prestigious restaurants, he brought his skills to California to share the authentic flavors and theatrical experience of traditional hibachi cooking.

Third-generation teppanyaki master
Trained in Osaka's finest restaurants
Passionate about authentic techniques
Our Core Values

What Drives Us

The principles that guide every flame, every dish, and every moment of your experience.

Live Fire Mastery

Every dish is prepared fresh on our hibachi grill, bringing the heat and spectacle directly to you with theatrical precision.

Premium Quality

We use only the finest ingredients, from USDA Choice meats to fresh vegetables and authentic Japanese seasonings.

Authentic Tradition

Our techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving the authentic art of teppanyaki craftsmanship.

Ready to experience the King Hibachi difference?

Explore Our Menu