Benihana is preparing to return to Seattle with a new location at the waterfront Lake Union Piers, according to a recent report from the Puget Sound Business Journal.
The Japanese restaurant chain is planned for a nearly 9,000-square-foot space at 901 Fairview Ave. N., occupying space within Building A of the redeveloped property.
The opening would mark Benihana’s return to Seattle after the closure of its longtime downtown presence. The chain previously operated a restaurant at 1200 Fifth Ave. before the location was rebranded in 2016 and later closed permanently in 2019.
The Lake Union Piers space had previously been tied to other concepts from The ONE Group Hospitality, which acquired Benihana in 2024.
Initial plans called for an STK Steakhouse, followed by proposals for Kona Grill, which would have marked the brand’s Seattle debut. Benihana is now expected to take over the waterfront location instead.
Founded in 1964 by Rocky Aoki in New York City, Benihana helped popularize teppanyaki-style dining in the United States. The concept is known for its hibachi tables, where chefs prepare meals directly in front of guests through theatrical tableside cooking experiences.
Today, Benihana operates more than 70 locations as part of The ONE Group Hospitality portfolio.
The menu features teppanyaki entrées, sushi, sashimi, specialty rolls, and Japanese-inspired appetizers. Signature offerings include hibachi filet mignon, steak and seafood combinations, Benihana Trio, chicken fried rice, onion soup, and an extensive sushi selection.
An opening timeline for Benihana’s Seattle return has not yet been announced.
What Now Seattle reached out to The ONE Group Hospitality, and this article may be updated as more information becomes available.
