When you’re planning a hibachi party, the food is more than just a meal—it’s part of the entertainment. A skilled hibachi chef transforms dinner into a full performance, and the sizzling menu options are front and center. But if you’re hosting for the first time or planning for a diverse group, you might be wondering: what are the best hibachi dishes to serve?
Whether you’re booking a private hibachi chef for a backyard party or organizing a group dinner for friends and family, offering the right menu can take the event from memorable to unforgettable. Here’s how to build the best hibachi menu for your event, with crowd-pleasing combinations that cater to all tastes.
Start with the Right Protein Choices
The heart of any hibachi meal is the protein. Hibachi catering lets you offer your guests a range of options, all cooked to order right in front of them. Here are the top choices:
- Steak: A classic hibachi favorite. Usually prepared medium or to taste, steak is a top pick for guests who want bold flavor and satisfying portions.
- Chicken: Ideal for kids and adults alike, chicken is tender, juicy, and pairs well with nearly every sauce and side.
- Shrimp: Light, quick to cook, and always a crowd favorite. Shrimp adds variety and works great as a standalone or combo option.
- Scallops or Lobster: For more upscale events, offering seafood upgrades like scallops or lobster tail creates a luxurious touch.
- Tofu or Vegetarian Options: Don’t forget your plant-based guests. Marinated tofu or additional grilled vegetables provide a delicious alternative that doesn’t feel like an afterthought.
Most hibachi catering packages allow for a “combo” plate—such as steak and shrimp or chicken and scallops—giving guests even more flexibility.
Don’t Skip the Signature Sides
While proteins take center stage, the sides complete the experience. Hibachi meals typically include:
- Fried Rice: Cooked on the grill with egg, veggies, and a splash of soy sauce, fried rice is flavorful, filling, and loved by everyone.
- Grilled Vegetables: A colorful mix of zucchini, onions, carrots, and mushrooms—seasoned perfectly and grilled alongside the protein.
- Noodles: While not always standard, many hosts opt to include hibachi-style noodles tossed in soy-based sauce for a satisfying extra.
These sides are not only delicious but also offer visual appeal as they’re cooked live on the grill, adding to the excitement of the show.
Sauces Make the Meal
Hibachi wouldn’t be complete without the sauces. These flavor boosters are what take a simple meal and turn it into something craveable. Popular choices include:
- Yum Yum Sauce: A creamy, tangy favorite made with mayo, ketchup, garlic, and a hint of sugar.
- Ginger Sauce: Light and zesty, ginger sauce is perfect for dipping grilled veggies or drizzling over protein.
- Teriyaki or Soy-Based Sauces: Sweet and savory, these are often used during cooking or served on the side.
Having multiple sauce options at your hibachi station allows guests to customize their meal just the way they like it.
Offer Customization and Combos
One of the biggest perks of hibachi catering is that each guest gets their meal made fresh to order. This allows for easy customization based on preferences or dietary needs. Whether someone wants no onions, extra shrimp, or light sauce, your chef can accommodate it on the spot.
Offering combo plates also gives guests variety. Popular combinations include:
- Steak and Shrimp
- Chicken and Scallops
- Tofu and Vegetables
- Steak and Chicken (for bigger appetites)
Combos allow guests to sample multiple flavors and enjoy a more balanced plate.
Don’t Forget the Kids
If you’ll have children at your event, make sure your hibachi menu includes kid-friendly options. Chicken and fried rice are usually safe bets, but many kids also enjoy the performance aspect of the hibachi chef.
Consider smaller portion options or letting parents pre-select plates for younger guests. The interactive cooking keeps kids entertained while offering a simple, satisfying meal.
Make Your Hibachi Catering Experience Delicious and Stress-Free
The beauty of hibachi catering is that your guests not only get great food—they get a full experience. From flying shrimp to flaming onion volcanoes, the show is just as exciting as the meal. When you offer a thoughtfully crafted menu, it ensures that everyone walks away full, happy, and ready to talk about your event for weeks.
At Bruce Hibachi at Home, we help you plan the perfect hibachi dinner from the grill up. Our chefs work with you to select the ideal proteins, sides, and sauces so that every plate hits the mark. Whether you’re hosting a birthday, neighborhood gathering, or family reunion, our team brings the show—and the flavor—right to your door.
Get the help you need to build your custom hibachi menu today and give your guests a night they’ll never forget.