Flame Hibachi — Restaurant in New York

I went to Flame Hibachi for my birthday, it became a memorable night for all the wrong reasons. I called on Wednesday (9/14) because I wanted to make a reservation ahead of time, I don’t know who picked up the phone that day but I was informed that I didn’t need one. I arrive Saturday (9/17), only to be told that I -did- need a reservation as the tables inside were packed.

But seeing how upset I was, the host tried to offer me a table for a previous party about to leave. I said alright, and they directed me to the bar to wait until they left. My husband noticed that the table was quickly replaced with a party of white people who hurriedly took it. Confused, we asked the host who made up this story that “They were waiting before you.” When it was an obvious lie, as they only arrived AFTER we did.

I grew more upset and the host tried to give us ANOTHER table, this time in the back of the restaurant. I initially thought it was an empty table beside me but the host, rudely responds that “Oh no that’s for an incoming party WITH a reservation.” The table he directed me to was not only tiny but in such a narrow corner that me and those with me would be bumped into repeatedly.

I became so overwhelmed that I had to leave, this felt racially motivated seeing how every time I tried to speak up to this host I was brushed off or looked over due to my skin for someone with a much more lighter complexion. It’s so disappointing that I was excited to not only try the food at this establishment but receive such amazing service, as my boss recommended me this place...

Simply the best.

I hadn’t been to hibachi in years. Ever since Benihana stole one of my million dollar ideas, I swore off all teppanyaki establishments. But one thing led to another, and I found myself seated at Flame.

Unsure of what to expect, I must admit I was nervous. Should I even be here? Do I belong? Can I trust these people not to steal another one of my business ideas? All my worries fell by the wayside when I met the head chef: Choy.

Choy started the night off with a bang. An explosion, if you will. That’s right — sake bombs on the house. He followed this act up with one of the smoothest egg tricks I had ever seen — cracking three eggs at once, slicing and dicing like there was no tomorrow. I had never seen someone beat eggs with such vigor and force. What ultimately won me over, though, was Choy’s onion volcano. While most hibachi chefs simply stack a few onions and call it a night, Choy built a 3 ft high mountain before proceeding to hit it with a flame — lighting up the entire room. With just the flick of a wrist, the fabric of my relationship to hibachi had been mended, and my faith in humanity restored.

In the end, everyone got exactly what they wanted, and the food was superb. If you’re looking for the dining experience of a lifetime—one that puts Benihana to shame—then look no further than Flame Hibachi on...

Called this location Friday December 11 and asked if I could reserve outdoor seating for Sunday December 13. They said no reservation needed, it’s first come first serve. So right now we’re at the restaurant (on Sunday Dec 13), and they are doing construction on their outdoor seating and you can’t sit outside. The hostess seemed upset that we even asked for outdoor seating! It’s such a nice sunny day. They suggested we try the 82nd street location. Gave the phone number - we called and that location also they said they had outdoor seating but I insisted they make sure before we go all the way over there (from 25th and 3rd) and get rejected again. So after checking the guy on the phone apologized saying they actually also had construction and no availability. Too bad they just lost a customer. Was celebrating a special occasion and would have eaten a lot. At least they could have told me when I called Friday. Like no one at the restaurant knew? That’s messed up. I hate to leave a bad review especially in these times for a restaurant but I really wish it could have been communicated. ...