‘Tanaka’ fires up grill for 40th

Teppanyaki chef Eric Yimchaloi lights up the grill while preparing a sizzling meal.

Happy birthday to Tanaka of Tokyo. The local family-owned and -operated Japanese steak and seafood restaurant turns 40 this week, a milestone that vice president/executive general manager Hiroshi Lamansky credits to its dedicated staff.

“They create the environment for our guests,” he says. “They’re really the ones that have carried on our tradition for excellent service.”

Known for its quality steak and seafood, Tanaka of Tokyo also is famous for its master teppanyaki chefs that skillfully prepare your food on a grill at your table, while adding some tricks of their own.

“It’s dinner and a show,” says Bo Tanaka, corporate general manager. “There’s that ‘wow’ factor.”

In celebration of its birthday, Tanaka of Tokyo is offering a 40th Anniversary Special ($52.50, available for 40 days starting March 21) consisting of a 5-ounce Center-cut Filet Steak, two 4-ounce Maine Lobster Tails and its signature Fried Rice.

40th Anniversary Special ($52.50)

“Our fried rice is really popular, and it’s fun to watch the chefs prepare it,” notes Tanaka. “That’s where a lot of them show their creativity. They juggle things and create tricks with eggs.”

The anniversary special, like with all its entrees, is served as a complete meal accompanied with tossed green salad, grilled shrimp appetizer, teppanyaki vegetables, steamed rice, pickled vegetables, miso soup, Japanese green tea and dessert.

Popular entrees include Sho-Gun ($67.25), a combination of Certified Angus Beef Tenderloin, Lobster Tail and tender deep sea Scallops; and the classic Steak and Shrimp Combination ($37.95). The elegant yet casual, family-friendly eatery also offers a keiki menu for children up to age 8.

The first restaurant was located on the fourth floor of Waikiki Shopping Plaza before moving in 2012 to the third floor. A second Waikiki location opened at King’s Village in 1990, but relocated in 2016 to Ohana Waikiki East Hotel. And, in 1994, a third location opened at Ilikai Hotel, but relocated in 2008 to Ala Moana Center. Each can accommodate about 170 guests.

The idea behind having two branches within 10 minutes of each other is to provide a location within walking distance to any hotel along the strip in Waikiki, notes Lamansky. In regards to the Ala Moana location, he adds, “We had that one right outside of Waikiki so it would be more convenient for our local followers.”

Both Waikiki locations provide full parking validation, while Ala Moana offers plenty of free parking.

Tanaka of Tokyo also offers a 10 percent discount to military members, and monthly specials.