Frequently asked questions

Straight answers on booking, pricing, setup, and what we include. Still need help? Call (858) 420-8888.

How do I book a private hibachi party?

Submit a booking request on our Book page with your date, location, guest count, and preferred package — or call us. We’ll confirm availability and next steps. A deposit is required to lock in your date once confirmed.

Why is a deposit required?

A $50 deposit reserves your event date and is credited toward your final balance. The deposit is refundable if the event is cancelled more than 72 hours before the scheduled event time. Cancellations made within 72 hours of the event are non-refundable. One reschedule may be allowed, subject to availability. The remaining balance and accepted payment methods will be confirmed when your booking is finalized.

Is there a minimum guest requirement?

Every booking has a $600 minimum order total. Smaller parties are welcome as long as the minimum order is met.

What’s included in the package price?

Classic Package: $60 per adult. Includes 2 proteins per guest (chicken, steak, shrimp, salmon, or tofu), fried rice, salad, mixed vegetables, house sauces, approximately 90 minutes of chef service, and a live hibachi show. Table and chair setup is not included. Premium Package: $80 per adult. Includes 3 proteins per guest from the Classic protein list, fried rice, salad, mixed vegetables, premium sauces, approximately 120 minutes of chef service, a live hibachi show, and table and chair setup. Luxury Package: $100 per adult. Includes lobster, filet mignon, and one additional protein per guest, plus fried rice, hibachi noodles, salad, premium vegetables, deluxe sauces, approximately 120 minutes of chef service, a live hibachi show, and table and chair setup. Beverages are not included. Guests should provide their own drinks unless otherwise confirmed for the booking.

How much food does each guest get?

Portions are sized as a full meal per guest for the package you book. If you expect bigger appetites or want extras, add proteins or sides when you book — we’re happy to size the order with you.

Do you offer kids pricing?

Children age 5 and under are $5 each. Children ages 6-12 are charged at half the selected adult package price: $30 for Classic, $40 for Premium, and $50 for Luxury.

Are there travel fees?

Travel fees, if applicable, will be confirmed after we review the event address and travel distance.

Is gratuity included?

Gratuity is not included in the package price. An 18%-20% gratuity is standard and goes directly to the chef.

What should I prepare for the event?

Outdoor service is strongly recommended. Indoor service may only be available after the venue's space, ventilation, clearance, and safety conditions have been reviewed and approved in advance. Table and chair setup is not included in the Classic Package. Table and chair setup is included with the Premium and Luxury Packages. Optional plates and utensils are available for $5 per person. Beverages are not included. Guests should provide their own drinks unless otherwise confirmed for the booking.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, with advance notice. We can help with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other common requests. Share dietary needs when you book so we can plan the menu.

Where do you serve?

Urban Flame Hibachi currently serves Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Palm Springs, and Santa Barbara. Please share your event address so we can confirm availability and travel details.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as early as you can — especially for weekends and holidays. Many hosts reserve 2–4 weeks ahead. Last-minute dates are sometimes available; send a request and we’ll check the calendar.

Can you do lunch, brunch, or daytime events — not only dinner?

Yes. We’re not limited to evening dinners. Share your preferred time when you book (for example 2pm, 5pm, 8pm, or 10pm) and we’ll confirm a slot that fits your celebration.

What’s the difference between Classic, Premium, and Luxury?

Classic Package: $60 per adult. Includes 2 proteins per guest (chicken, steak, shrimp, salmon, or tofu), fried rice, salad, mixed vegetables, house sauces, approximately 90 minutes of chef service, and a live hibachi show. Table and chair setup is not included. Premium Package: $80 per adult. Includes 3 proteins per guest from the Classic protein list, fried rice, salad, mixed vegetables, premium sauces, approximately 120 minutes of chef service, a live hibachi show, and table and chair setup. Luxury Package: $100 per adult. Includes lobster, filet mignon, and one additional protein per guest, plus fried rice, hibachi noodles, salad, premium vegetables, deluxe sauces, approximately 120 minutes of chef service, a live hibachi show, and table and chair setup.

How long does a typical event last?

Classic packages are usually about 90 minutes of chef service. Premium and Luxury are closer to about 120 minutes. Exact timing depends on guest count and the flow of your party.

Do you cook indoors or outdoors?

Outdoor service is strongly recommended. Indoor service may only be available after the venue's space, ventilation, clearance, and safety conditions have been reviewed and approved in advance.

What happens if it rains or it’s very windy?

Safety comes first. If weather makes outdoor cooking unsafe, we’ll work with you to reschedule or adjust the setup when possible. Covered patios and backup plans help — mention your space details when you book.

What if something unexpected happens before the event?

If a chef or equipment issue comes up on our side, we’ll contact you as soon as we can and work on a replacement chef, an adjusted time, or a reschedule. Share a reachable phone number when you book so we can reach you quickly.

Do you provide plates, utensils, tables, and chairs?

Table and chair setup is not included in the Classic Package. Table and chair setup is included with the Premium and Luxury Packages. Optional plates and utensils are available for $5 per person.

Do you offer sushi?

Not at this time. Our menu focuses on hibachi proteins, sides, and live teppanyaki entertainment. Ask about current add-ons like noodles, gyoza, or protein upgrades when you book.

Can guests bring their own drinks?

Beverages are not included. Guests should provide their own drinks unless otherwise confirmed for the booking.

What access does the chef need at my home or venue?

Please reserve a clear, level cooking area with room for the portable grill and chef to move safely. Easy vehicle access for unloading helps. Share parking notes, stairs, or HOA rules when you book.

How do payments work?

A $50 deposit reserves your event date and is credited toward your final balance. The deposit is refundable if the event is cancelled more than 72 hours before the scheduled event time. Cancellations made within 72 hours of the event are non-refundable. One reschedule may be allowed, subject to availability. The remaining balance and accepted payment methods will be confirmed when your booking is finalized.

Can I change the guest count after booking?

Yes, within reason and with enough notice so we can adjust food and staffing. Final counts should be confirmed before the event. Large last-minute changes may affect availability or pricing.

How many chefs do larger events need?

Events with 30 or more guests generally require two chefs and two grills. Events with 60 or more guests generally require three chefs. Final staffing will be confirmed based on the event details.

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