4 /5 G G: Just tried the new Benihana at Bridgepointe Center in San Mateo for a celebratory work lunch. Our group was 8 so we had our own hibachi grill to ourselves. Love how they converted the old Red Robin restaurant to a Benihana. The interior was red and black with huge stainless steel vents over the grills. The place felt clean, fresh and new. Our server was engaging and attentive and our chef was very diligent in accommodating our food restrictions. Two of us were gluten-free plus I was allergic to seafood. Normally Benihana chefs just keep the meats and seafood separate on the grill but he cooked everything first before the seafood. He even showed us the gluten-free soy sauce bottle. Well-done, chef! Come for lunch; its much more affordable than dinner and not crowded so you receive excellent service. Lunch Duet is the way to go: you get get a choice of 2 proteins, veggies, soup and rice for just under $30. The portion is just right. Tip: start eating your food once its plated so its hot. We were all being polite by waiting for everyones food to cook, so needless to say some of our food was lukewarm. Otherwise, great fun! Will come again.
