So funny that this came up- I just had my 11 year old’s birthday there this weekend. We had 9 people (7 kids and 2 parents) and we were at one table. We were at Benihana.

I put an end time that was 1 hour 45 mins after, but grabbed all parent numbers when they dropped off. That was perfect as I could send some pics and tell them that we were running 30 minutes late!

Kids had a fantastic time and I didn’t have any safety concerns, however it was really crowded when we went. I thought 6 pm was early enough that we would get quick service, but they were completely full! Between ordering and the chef coming was 45 minutes- those are a tough 45 minutes for a group of active boys! We had a corner table and we used the corner space to get up as needed. Kids still had a great time, but something to be aware of is the kids aren’t the best at calmly sitting and waiting!!

We didn’t bring cake as the kids meal cones with ice cream and that was perfect as the kids were sooo full after eating. Benihana provides a candle and stuck it in the ice cream and we were all happy.

I would do it again and recommend it as an easy party idea.

Good luck!

I have taken a cake to Benihana, no problems and the people will bring it out and sing

^ and we have one on the spectrum and one with ADHD.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Keep in mind I think each table can only hold 8 people. They can’t really add chairs and it’s a bummer to have to split up. So I’d either do family and invite one or 2 friends as or just make sure there won’t be more than 8 at the table

This! I did this at Sakura when DD turned 9. She had three friends, me, her dad, and my parents. It worked out well.

I’m the other poster with the 11 yo who wants this for a birthday. We’ve taken him and friends to Sakura before. To the other poster, no one has ever tried to put their hands on the grill including younger siblings and relatives. It’s always a good time. I think Sakura fits 10 around the table. We’ve always had less than that.

There’s a place in the fairoaks area that will pick up your party in a limo for the party...

Anonymous wrote:Keep in mind I think each table can only hold 8 people. They can’t really add chairs and it’s a bummer to have to split up. So I’d either do family and invite one or 2 friends as or just make sure there won’t be more than 8 at the table

This! I did this at Sakura when DD turned 9. She had three friends, me, her dad, and my parents. It worked out well.

Keep in mind I think each table can only hold 8 people. They can’t really add chairs and it’s a bummer to have to split up. So I’d either do family and invite one or 2 friends as or just make sure there won’t be more than 8 at the table

I have kids on the spectrum. i wouldn't do benihana for a group of 11 year olds. Family party, yes. No to a group party. Kids will go crazy and put their hands on the grill. Neighboring parties will be annoyed. If you do proceed, please do it at off hours so other diners won't have their expensive meal spoiled.

I have kids on the spectrum. i wouldn't do benihana for a group of 11 year olds. Family party, yes. No to a group party. Kids will go crazy and put their hands on the grill. Neighboring parties will be annoyed. If you do proceed, please do it at off hours so other diners won't have their expensive meal spoiled.

When we have done similar parties we have driven everyone back to our house after for cake and ice cream. If you don’t want to do that, I would just call the restaurant and ask about timing. My guess is 1 1/2 hours but they should have a good idea. You can can ask if you can bring cake with you. They do a ton of birthdays there. If your timing is off a bit, parents will either wait a few minutes or you will just wait with the kids until they are picked up. You could also put an approximate end time on the invite so parents know they might need to wait a few minutes.

I was thinking 6 kids (inviting 8 and praying 5 or so will say yes...). ?.

I would like it to end at the restaurant because he can have some issues still with transitions especially if he is anxious to open gifts.

Maybe I’ll just say 1.5 hours with text update as needed?!

My 11 yo requested the same but at a similar restaurant. How many kids are you having? Are parents dropping off there? We are bringing everyone with us. I’d get everyone something small like ice cream afterwards. We are still figuring out if we are going to do this or take them back to our house to hang out and have cake. Not sure about the end time, that’s why we are keeping numbers small and driving.

Good morning!

My eleven year old has requested Benihana for his birthday party. I had a couple of questions and thought you all might be able to help.

1) What times would I write on an invite as I don’t know what time it would end?
2) Do I bring a cake there or just order dessert off the menu?

Anything else important to know? He’s always done parties at places that are more factory like, so this is new. He is also on the spectrum, so the social dynamics are hard enough and I don’t want to make things harder for him.

Thanks!