Benihana: Revolutionizing Japanese Teppanyaki Dining

Established in 1964 by Hiroaki "Rocky" Aoki, Benihana introduced the art of teppanyaki cooking to the United States with its inaugural restaurant in New York City. The brand's corporate headquarters are located in Aventura, Florida.

Benihana began franchising to expand its unique dining experience, offering franchise opportunities in various domestic and international markets.

Benihana specializes in Japanese teppanyaki cuisine, where highly skilled chefs prepare meals on steel teppanyaki grills right at the guests' tables.

The menu features a variety of options, including steak, chicken, seafood, and fresh vegetables, all cooked in traditional Japanese style. This interactive and entertaining cooking style sets Benihana apart from competitors, creating memorable dining experiences that blend culinary artistry with performance.

Training

Benihana provides a comprehensive set of training programs to ensure that franchisees and their staff are fully equipped to operate under the Benihana brand. These training programs include the following:

1. Initial Training: This training is mandatory unless waived by Benihana (BNC) based on prior experience. It typically consists of 8 to 12 weeks of hands-on work at a Benihana restaurant. It covers operational practices and ensures that trainees meet BNC’s standards. Up to five chefs, a General Manager, and other approved personnel may attend without additional fees.
2. In-Restaurant Training: Offered both pre-opening and during the opening phase, this training is conducted on-site at the franchisee's restaurant. It is tailored to the specific needs of the franchisee’s team and location, considering their experience and the restaurant’s projected sales volume. BNC determines the scope and duration of this training.
3. Ongoing Training: This includes periodic seminars, courses, and training sessions required by BNC after the restaurant is operational. These sessions may be held at BNC’s principal office, the franchisee’s location, or another designated Benihana restaurant. All related expenses such as salaries, travel, lodging, and meals are borne by the franchisee.
4. Training-Related Materials: Franchisees must provide additional training content to their employees, as required by BNC. This can include web-based instruction, video conferencing, or other non-face-to-face formats.

Territory Protection

Benihana does not grant exclusive or protected territories to franchisees. However, as long as the franchisee complies with the Franchise Agreement, Benihana will not authorize another Benihana restaurant within the defined “Restaurant Area” specified in the contract.

This territorial protection is limited and conditional. The franchisor may still reserve rights to compete within the area, meaning the protection is not absolute.