Frequently Asked Questions

After you reserve your time online, you should receive a confirmation email. Please check spam and confirm the email address is correct if it does not arrive. A booking manager will reach out at least a week before your party date to finalize details including menu and price, and you may contact the team before then if needed.

Click Book Now or choose your service area, select your county, then choose a date and time. After that, enter your contact information, event address, guest details, food preferences, party occasion, and agree to the service terms before confirming the appointment.

Yes. The automatic estimator can give a close price estimate. On the homepage, use the FREE ESTIMATE button or visit the estimate page to calculate your likely cost before booking.

The chef usually arrives about 15–30 minutes before the reservation time. Setup is designed to be simple and normally takes only a few minutes.

Parties generally start with at least 10 adults or a $600 minimum. If your group is smaller, you may reach the minimum with additional proteins such as chicken, NY strip steak, shrimp, scallops, salmon, or tofu, or contact customer service for a customized plan.

The total includes the base cost, each guest’s two complimentary protein choices, fried rice, cooked vegetables, side salad, sauces, and sake for guests 21+. Optional food upgrades, travel fee beyond the first 20 miles, and chef gratuity are not included in the base price.

Adults and guests age 13+ are priced as adults. Children ages 6–12 receive the child price, and children age 5 and under eat free. Young children receive one protein and a smaller rice portion.

The first 20 miles to your event location are free. Any miles beyond the first 20 miles are charged at $2 per mile to help cover the chef’s travel time, fuel, and the transportation of equipment.

For most orders under $3,000, booking requires a $200 refundable deposit plus sales tax and Stripe processing fee. Orders over $3,000 require a 30% deposit. The deposit reserves the date and time and is deducted from your final balance.

Yes. The remaining balance can be paid in cash after the party. You may also pay in advance via Stripe by contacting the team for a payment link. Stripe accepts most credit cards.

Chef gratuity goes directly to the chef and is greatly appreciated. Love Hibachi recommends tipping 20–35% of the service cost, based on the base cost plus optional food upgrades.

Each guest may choose two proteins from chicken, NY strip steak, shrimp, scallops, salmon, tofu, or vegetarian options. Meals include fried rice, fresh cooked vegetables, side salad, signature sauce, and sake for guests 21+. Upgrades can include filet mignon, lobster tail, gyoza, edamame, noodles, sushi, or buffet options.

Yes. Each guest can choose two proteins, and choices can vary by guest. Chefs can cook and serve different proteins separately so everyone gets the right meal.

A third protein can be added for an additional charge. Standard proteins such as chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, salmon, or tofu are typically +$10 per person, while premium proteins such as filet mignon or lobster tail are typically +$15 per person when used as third choices.

Yes. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated upon request, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, halal, and kosher needs. Tell the reservation manager the exact restrictions before the party.

No. Due to insurance and pricing requirements, chefs do not cook outside proteins or outside food at this time.

Yes. Sushi options are available, including roll trays and platter options. Contact customer service for the current sushi menu and availability for your event area.

Prepare a clear cooking area for the grill, plus tables, chairs, dinner plates, salad plates, silverware, cups, and any beverages you want besides sake. The chefs bring the food, sake, equipment, entertainment, and fun.

A U-shaped setup with a gap for the chef’s workstation is recommended so guests can watch the performance. Two 8-foot rectangular tables in an L shape can seat about 10 guests, while three 6-foot tables in a U shape can seat about 12–15 guests.

Table and chair setup is currently available in Austin, TX and Chicago, IL, including nearby areas. For other locations, Love Hibachi recommends arranging rentals through a local party rental company.

The service is best suited for outdoor areas such as backyards, terraces, patios, and balconies. Indoor cooking may be possible only with high ceilings and good ventilation.

Yes. Love Hibachi carries event liability insurance. If a venue or building requires proof of insurance, a Certificate of Insurance can be provided upon request after the booking deposit is completed.

Chefs follow safety protocols including propane leak checks, safe distance from flammable objects, proper ventilation, and bringing a portable fire extinguisher to events. Chefs use Blackstone griddles and AmeriGas propane tanks and check equipment before and after use.

The protein list should be confirmed at least 3 days before the party. If the final menu is not received, chicken and steak will be used as the default protein choices.

Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the event are eligible for a full deposit refund. Rescheduling is also free with 48 hours’ notice. Within 48 hours, the deposit may not be refundable and a $200 rescheduling fee may apply. If it rains, provide a covered cooking area such as a tent or patio so the chef can cook safely and stay dry.

Please notify the team of any guest count changes at least 24 hours before the event so the chefs can prepare enough food for everyone.

Love Hibachi welcomes feedback and recommends sharing supporting details such as photos or videos when possible. This helps the team review the event, address issues, and continue improving service quality.

Yes. Love Hibachi has videos and guest media available through the Media page and social media channels, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.