By Michelle Caceres
“It’s like performance art,” said Sun City resident John Maddaloni, referring to his recent trip to Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar. He watched hibachi chef Jean Alvarez flip knives, create fire and make an egg dance tableside to his group of neighborhood association members.
“I normally don’t like people playing with my food, but the entertainment comes free with its purchase and the food is always delicious,” he said.
The restaurant, located in River Springs Plaza at the intersection of FishHawk Blvd. and Boyette Rd., is celebrating its five-year anniversary. It is known for its flavorful Japanese food ranging from tempura and soups, seafood and sushi rolls to hibachi favorites, including steak, chicken and seafood. The restaurant also features a full liquor bar.
Co-owner Woon Sik Lee hasn’t skimped on the quality of the food in the five years they’ve been in business. “I am very picky about the high quality,” he said.
Co-owner Kumi Tamura said the road construction has had a negative impact on their business.
Tamura said there are shortcuts to the restaurant, allowing customers to bypass the construction site. “If you’re coming from FishHawk it can be difficult to navigate through the construction but you can turn left at Mosaic and come in from the back entrance,” she said.
Tamura said she has a lot invested in the business and that she plans on keeping the restaurant open in spite of the traffic construction.
“You won’t find a better tasting hibachi restaurant in this town,” she said. “Don’t forget that we’re here for a night out with the girls, a special occasion dinner or just an entertaining meal with the family.”
Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse is open for lunch and dinner. Its hours are Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sunday-Thursday, 5-9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 5-10:30 p.m. Early bird specials are offered Monday-Thursday from 5-6 p.m. Late-night specials are also offered Monday-Thursday after 8:30 p.m.
For more information about Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse, visit www.tokyoriverview.com or call 689-5544.
