Yakiniku vs. Hibachi: A CulinaryShowdown

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated March 21, 2023

Yakiniku and hibachi are two popular Japanese cooking styles, but how exactly are they different?

Yakiniku is a form of grilling meat, vegetables, and other ingredients prepared with a sweet savory sauce, while hibachi is a form of grilling prepared by a chef in front of diners, usually using a teppanyaki-style cooking technique.

Let’s dive a little deeper into these differences so you can make the right choice next time you’re looking for a delicious Japanese meal.

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Yakiniku vs Hibachi: What’s the Difference?

Yakiniku and hibachi are two different cooking styles that originate from Japan. While both involve grilling food, they use different techniques and equipment. Here are the main differences:

• Yakiniku: This style of cooking involves grilling bite-sized pieces of meat, vegetables, and other ingredients on a small, portable grill called a shichirin. The grill is typically heated with charcoal or gas, and the food is cooked directly on the grill grates. Yakiniku is known for its sweet and savory soy-based dipping sauce, which is used to enhance the flavor of the grilled food.
• Hibachi: This style of cooking involves using a large, flat iron griddle or pan to cook food over high heat. The griddle is usually heated with charcoal or gas, and the food is cooked directly on the surface. Hibachi is known for its smokey flavor and the showmanship of the chefs who perform tricks and flips while cooking the food.

The Food and Preparation

The types of food and the way they are prepared also differ between yakiniku and hibachi:

• Yakiniku: This style of cooking is typically used for grilling meat, such as beef, pork, and chicken. The meat is usually thinly sliced and marinated in a sweet and savory sauce before being grilled. Vegetables and other ingredients can also be grilled alongside the meat.
• Hibachi: This style of cooking is typically used for grilling a variety of ingredients, including meat, seafood, and vegetables. The food is usually prepared in front of the diners by a professional chef who uses a variety of techniques, such as chopping, slicing, and dicing, to create a show. Hibachi dishes are often served with rice, noodles, and a variety of sauces.

The Equipment and Design

The equipment and design of yakiniku and hibachi also differ:

• Yakiniku: The shichirin grill used for yakiniku is a small, portable device that is designed for home use. It is typically made of clay or ceramic and is relatively inexpensive to maintain. Yakiniku grills are also used in restaurants, but they are usually larger and more expensive than the ones used at home.
• Hibachi: The griddle or pan used for hibachi is a large, flat device that is designed for professional use. It is typically made of iron and is heated with charcoal or gas. Hibachi grills are expensive to maintain and are usually found in high-end restaurants.

The Sauce and Seasoning

The sauce and seasoning used in yakiniku and hibachi are also different:

• Yakiniku: The dipping sauce used in yakiniku is typically a sweet and savory soy-based sauce that is used to enhance the flavor of the grilled meat and vegetables. Other seasonings, such as garlic and sesame oil, can also be used.
• Hibachi: The sauces used in hibachi dishes vary depending on the type of dish being served. Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sake are commonly used to season the food.

The Popularity and Association

Yakiniku and hibachi are both popular in Japan and around the world, but they are known for different things:

• Yakiniku: This style of cooking is known for its small, bite-sized pieces of meat and vegetables that are grilled to perfection. Yakiniku is a popular dish in Japan and is becoming more popular in Western countries.
• Hibachi: This style of cooking is known for the showmanship of the chefs who perform tricks and flips while cooking the food. Hibachi is a popular form of entertainment in Japan and is often associated with teppanyaki restaurants.

In conclusion, while yakiniku and hibachi are both forms of grilled Japanese cuisine, they are completely different in terms of cooking style, equipment, and preparation. If you want to experience the smokey flavor and showmanship of hibachi, go to a teppanyaki restaurant. If you want to enjoy the small, bite-sized pieces of grilled meat and vegetables that yakiniku offers, try a yakiniku restaurant. Either way, you’re in for a good time!

What is Hibachi?

Hibachi is a Japanese cooking style that originated in the Heian period. The term “hibachi” literally means “fire bowl” and refers to a cylindrical or square container made of wood or ceramic that was used for burning charcoal. The device was designed to contain the burning charcoal and allow for the proper ventilation of carbon monoxide.

During this period, hibachi devices were mainly used in homes for cooking small amounts of food. The cooks would place a plate on top of the hibachi, which would lie beneath a wooden or ceramic container, referring to it as a “brazier.” This plate would be used to cook the food, and the heat would come from the charcoal burning beneath it.

The Hibachi Grill

Over time, the hibachi evolved into a larger device, known as a hibachi grill. This grill was designed to be used in restaurants and featured an open grill surface, allowing chefs to cook food directly over the burning charcoal.

The hibachi grill is typically made of metal, such as iron, and is fueled by charcoal. The grill’s shape can vary, but it is usually round or square and features a detachable cylindrical grill that can be added for heating and cooking seafood and other food items.

The Hibachi vs. Teppanyaki

The hibachi grill is often confused with the teppanyaki grill, which is a Westernized version of the hibachi. Teppanyaki refers to a style of cooking that involves using large griddles to cook food in front of customers.

While the hibachi grill is designed to be used with charcoal, the teppanyaki grill is typically heated with gas. Additionally, the teppanyaki grill features a flat, open surface that allows for the cooking of larger amounts of food at once.

Also read: this is the exact explanation of teppanyaki vs hibachi

What is Yakiniku?

Yakiniku is a Japanese style of grilling meat, where small pieces of meat are cooked on a griddle or mesh over a charcoal or iron grill. The word “yakiniku” literally means “grilled meat,” and it’s a popular way of eating meat in Japan. Unlike hibachi, where the food is cooked and served in one place, yakiniku is all about grilling your own meat and eating it as you go.

How to Eat Yakiniku

When you go to a yakiniku restaurant, you’ll be seated at a table with a grill in the center. You’ll be given a menu with different cuts of meat and vegetables to choose from. Here’s how to eat yakiniku like a pro:

• Choose the meats and vegetables you want to grill
• Ask the server for utensils and any sauces you want to try (soy sauce and lemon are popular choices)
• Mix the sauces together to create your own flavor
• Place a piece of meat or vegetable on the grill and cook it to your liking
• Once it’s cooked, place it on a small plate and enjoy!
• Repeat until you’re full

The Different Types of Yakiniku

There are many different types of yakiniku, depending on the cuts of meat and the way they’re prepared. Here are some popular types:

• Kalbi: marinated beef short ribs
• Harami: skirt steak
• Tongue: beef tongue
• Buta Bara: pork belly
• Vegetables: cabbage, onions, mushrooms, etc.

The Best Yakiniku Places to Try

If you’re new to yakiniku, here are some great places to try:

• Gyu-Kaku: a popular chain with locations all over the US
• Yakiniku Yazawa: a dedicated yakiniku restaurant in New York City
• Tsuruhashi Fugetsu: a famous yakiniku restaurant in Osaka, Japan

Tips for Eating Yakiniku

• Don’t overcook the meat – it’s best to eat it a bit rare
• Try different cuts of meat and vegetables to find your favorites
• Bring friends or family to enjoy the social aspect of yakiniku
• Check the restaurant’s menu and prices before you go to avoid any surprises
• Have fun and enjoy the delicious food!

The History of Hibachi

Over time, the hibachi evolved into a type of cooking style, where meat was grilled on a small, portable hibachi grill. This style of cooking became popular in Japan during the Meiji period (1868-1912), and it was called yakiniku, which means “grilled meat.” Yakiniku was inspired by Korean cuisine, which uses similar grills called “chōsen.”

The Popularity of Hibachi in Japan and Abroad

Hibachi-style cooking became popular in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s, and it was commonly served in small restaurants called yakiniku-ya. These restaurants were popular among young people and were often open late into the night. Hibachi-style cooking also spread to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it became popular in the 1960s and 1970s.

The Hibachi Grill and Hibachi-Style Menus

The hibachi grill is a small, portable grill that uses charcoal as a heat source. It is similar to the Korean-style grill, but it is smaller and more compact. Hibachi-style menus typically include a variety of meats, including beef, chicken, and pork, as well as seafood and vegetables. The food is cooked on the grill and served on a small, round table.

The History of Yakiniku

Yakiniku, which means “grilled meat” in Japanese, has its origins in Korea. Korean immigrants in Japan introduced the cooking style in the early 20th century. At first, it was called “horumonyaki,” which means “grilled organ meat,” but it evolved to include other cuts of meat.

Official Proclamation

Yakiniku became an official form of cooking in Japan in 1940 when the Japan Yakiniku Association was established. The association proclaimed January 29th as “Yakiniku Day” to celebrate the dish.

Goroawase and Yakiniku Day

The date of January 29th was chosen for Yakiniku Day because the numbers 1, 2, and 9 can be pronounced as “i,” “ni,” and “ku” in Japanese, respectively. When put together, they form the word “yakiniku.” The association also created a yakiniku-themed goroawase, which is a Japanese wordplay using numbers.

Yakiniku Basics

Here are some basic facts about yakiniku:

• Yakiniku is typically made with beef, but it can also be made with pork, chicken, or seafood.
• The meat is usually marinated in a sauce before grilling.
• Yakiniku is often served with vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
• It is usually cooked at the table on a grill or hot plate.
• Yakiniku is often eaten with rice and/or beer.

Yakiniku is a delicious and popular dish that has a rich history and has spread all over the world. Whether you’re a meat lover or just looking to try something new, yakiniku is definitely worth a try.

How to Properly Serve and Eat Hibachi

Hibachi is a traditional Japanese style of cooking that uses a small, round, box-like device known as a hibachi. This device is designed to contain charcoal and is used to heat a pot or grill for cooking food. The hibachi is believed to date back to the Heian period in Japan and was originally intended to be used for heating tea.

The Preparation and Uses of Hibachi

To properly prepare a hibachi for cooking, it must be filled with natural charcoal and lit. The charcoal will heat the pot or grill, allowing the food to be cooked over a hot flame. Hibachi can be used to grill a variety of foods, including meat, fish, and vegetables.

Serving and Eating Hibachi

When serving hibachi, the food is typically placed on a large plate or platter and served family-style. Diners are then able to take pieces of the grilled food and eat it with chopsticks or their hands. Hibachi is often served as an extended dinner, allowing guests to entertain and stay warm with the heat of the hibachi.

The Difference Between Hibachi and Western Grilling

While hibachi may seem similar to Western grilling, there are some strikingly different features. For example, hibachi is typically smaller and more elaborate than a traditional grill, with a cylindrical shape and a lining of ash to contain the charcoal. Additionally, hibachi is often used for cooking smaller pieces of food, such as ground meat or vegetables, while traditional grilling is better suited for larger cuts of meat.

The Modern Usage of Hibachi in the United States

In the United States, hibachi has become a popular feature in Japanese restaurants, where chefs use large hibachi grills to cook food in front of diners. This allows for a more interactive dining experience and gives chefs the ability to showcase their grilling skills. However, it is important to note that this modern usage of hibachi is not completely authentic to the traditional Japanese style of cooking.

Overall, hibachi is a unique and flavorful way to cook and serve food. Whether enjoyed at home or in a restaurant, hibachi is definitely a dining experience worth trying.

How to Enjoy Yakiniku: A Guide to Eating and Serving

When it comes to yakiniku, the meat is the star of the show. Here are some tips for choosing and ordering your cuts:

• Ask your server for recommendations or popular cuts at the restaurant.
• Yakiniku restaurants usually offer a la carte options, so you can pick and choose exactly what you want.
• Beef is the most popular meat for yakiniku, but you can also try pork, chicken, or offal (such as tongue).
• Look for marbled meat with a bit of fat for the best flavor.
• Choose different cuts and thicknesses to mix things up and try new flavors.
• Some cuts may be more expensive than others, so be sure to check the price before you order.

Preparing Your Meat for the Grill

Once you’ve ordered your meat, it’s time to get it ready for the grill (best konro’s for yakiniku here):

• Cut your meat into bite-sized pieces, typically around 1-2 inches in length.
• If your meat is not already marinated, you can add seasoning or sauce to it before grilling.
• Be careful not to over-marinate your meat, as it can become too salty or overpowering.
• Keeping your meat at room temperature before grilling allows it to cook more evenly.

Grilling Your Meats and Vegetables

Now it’s time to start grilling:

• Yakiniku restaurants usually have a grill at the center of the table, allowing you to cook your own meats and vegetables.
• Use tongs or chopsticks to place your meat on the grill, and cook it to your desired level of doneness.
• Some meats may take a little longer to cook than others, so be patient and keep an eye on them.
• Vegetables can also be grilled alongside your meats for a delicious combination.
• Be sure to add extra sauce or seasoning to your meats as they cook, and mix them with vegetables for even more flavor.

Conclusion

Yakiniku and hibachi are two different types of Japanese cooking that involve grilling food. Yakiniku involves smaller bite-sized pieces of meat and vegetables cooked on a small grill, while hibachi involves larger pieces of food cooked on a griddle pan.

It’s clear now that yakiniku and hibachi are two different cooking styles originating from Japan and involve grilling food, but the differences are much more subtle.

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

Read for free

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.