Question 1

Is there a minimum charge for hibachi events in Tampa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a $550 minimum that applies to all events regardless of how many guests attend. The per-person packages start at $55 for adults and $30 per child for ages 5 through 12, but even a small gathering is subject to that floor. If your headcount puts you below the minimum, consider whether upgraded packages, side orders, or table rental helps you make the most of the booking. Reach out to HibaChef directly to talk through what works for your group size

Question 2

What proteins and upgrades are available?

Accepted Answer

On the Hibachi Regular package at $55 per person, you choose two entrees from six options: Chicken, Jumbo Shrimp, Prime NY Strip, Scallops, Salmon, and Tofu. The Hibachi Special at $65 per person locks in a fixed combination of Chicken, Shrimp, and NY Strip, so no selection is needed for that one. If anyone at your event wants something premium, Filet Mignon is available as an upgrade at an additional $8 per person and Lobster at an additional $15 per person, added on top of whichever package they are on.

Question 3

Does HibaChef cook indoors?

Accepted Answer

HibaChef primarily provides outdoor hibachi. The grill, chef, and cooking station are set up outside as the default. Indoor service is available when the space has proper ventilation, safe clearance for the equipment, and meets HibaChef's setup requirements. If you are planning an event inside, contact HibaChef in advance to confirm whether your specific venue qualifies. Do not assume indoor is automatically an option without that conversation, especially for spaces like apartments, enclosed garages, or rooms without adequate airflow.

Question 4

What happens if it rains on my event day?

Accepted Answer

HibaChef operates rain or shine, which means weather on its own does not qualify for a refund, credit, or cancellation without a fee. You are responsible for providing a covered outdoor area for the chef and cooking setup. A patio with a solid awning, a tent structure, or a similar shelter handles most situations. Guests are welcome to sit indoors while the chef cooks outside, but cooking cannot move indoors. Tampa afternoon storms can roll in fast, so having a covered cooking space ready before the event starts is always a smart move.

Question 5

Does HibaChef cover all areas of Tampa?

Accepted Answer

HibaChef serves 18 areas across Tampa. Check the coverage list on this page to see if your location is included. For addresses not on the list, reach out directly to confirm availability. A travel fee applies for distances beyond 40 miles from the chef's base, but most Tampa addresses fall comfortably within that range. Confirming your address before booking is always worth doing if you are unsure whether your specific location is covered.

Question 6

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

Book as early as you can. One to two weeks out is a reasonable minimum for most bookings, but Tampa weekends and holiday periods fill up quickly. For milestone birthdays, corporate events, or any gathering where a specific date is non-negotiable, three to four weeks in advance gives you a much safer window. Available time slots are 1PM, 2PM, 3PM, 4PM, 5PM, 7PM, 8PM, and 9PM. Your booking is not confirmed until HibaChef receives the required payment or deposit, so do not wait until everything else is arranged before reaching out.

Question 7

What does the kids' package include?

Accepted Answer

The Hibachi Kids package covers children ages 5 through 12 at $30 per child. Kids choose one entree instead of the two included in the adult Regular package. The rest of the experience stays the same: salad with ginger dressing, mixed vegetables, and egg fried rice are all included. If you have children under age 5 attending your event, contact HibaChef directly to understand how that age group is handled, since no listed package currently applies to children below 5.

Question 8

Can I cancel or reschedule my event?

Accepted Answer

Get in touch as soon as you know your plans have changed. Cancel at least 7 days before your event and you'll get a full refund on your deposit. Cancel within 7 days, and the deposit is forfeited in full. Depending on your situation, additional fees for administrative work, travel, food, or staffing may also apply. For full details, check the Refund Policy page.

Question 9

Are there vegetarian options available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tofu is available as one of the entree selections on the Hibachi Regular package. All packages also include mixed vegetables consisting of zucchini, onion, carrots, broccoli, mushroom, and asparagus, plus salad with ginger dressing and egg fried rice. That said, HibaChef cannot guarantee an allergen-free cooking environment, and cross-contact during food preparation and service is possible. If any guest has serious food allergies or dietary restrictions, let HibaChef know in advance so they can take reasonable precautions going into the event.

Question 10

How should I set up my outdoor space for the chef?

Accepted Answer

Have your guest dining area fully ready before the chef arrives. That means tables, chairs, plates, utensils, and anything your guests will need during the meal. On the cooking side, clear a level, open outdoor surface with enough room for the grill and chef to operate without obstruction. Good lighting matters if your event runs into the evening hours. Given Tampa's afternoon weather patterns, having a covered area available for the cooking setup is worth planning for. Keep pets and young children at a safe distance from the grill throughout the event.

Hibachi in Tampa, FL

Areas We Serve Hibachi in Tampa, FL

Bayshore Beautiful

Channelside

Davis Islands

Downtown Tampa

Forest Hills

Hyde Park

Interbay

New Tampa

Old Seminole Heights

Palma Ceia

Riverside Heights

Seminole Heights

South Tampa

Sulphur Springs

Tampa Heights

Wellswood

West Tampa

Ybor City

What’s Included With Your Hibachi Chef

Private Hibachi Chef

Live Tableside Cooking

Full Setup for Cooking

You Provide the Space

Hibachi Packages

Hibachi Regular

Hibachi Special

Hibachi Kids

Occasions We Serve in Tampa, FL

Hibachi Birthday Parties

Backyard Hibachi Parties

Private Hibachi Chef

Hibachi Catering

Corporate & Private Events

Customer Reviews

Jeffrey Quezada

Rachel Conyers

Sydney Wells

Brandi Liston

Meghan Frederick

Bri Heintz

Ellery Parker