Sushi, Sashimi, and Hibachi, Oh, My!
At Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, owners Michael and Annie Chou introduce diners to delicious Japanese-inspired meals.

After recognizing an opportunity in the Japanese-inspired dining market, owners Michael and Annie Chou opened Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar in Tallahassee, Florida, in 1998. Previously having owned a Chinese restaurant in Tallahassee, Chou’s Dynasty, Mr. Chou saw an opportunity in uncharted dining territory: hibachi. While the Japanese steakhouse concept was new for the Chous, the cuisine was not. Mr. Chou was raised in the sovereign state of Taiwan, which was occupied by Japan for 50 years.
From the conception of their first Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar to the rebuild of their new Tallahassee location, the Chous have always held true to three enduring values: cleanliness, service, and quality.
During the past 20 years, the Chous have expanded their business into other bustling locations, including Destin in 2003 and Panama City Beach in 2014. The Chous saw these markets enjoyed by locals and tourists alike as an opportunity for growth and a way to fulfill a niche that was missing in the area—an authentic Japanese steakhouse.
The success of Osaka is due in large part to the commitment of its employees. The Destin location has three chefs who have been on the team since it opened in 2003. The head chef in Tallahassee joined the restaurant shortly after it opened nearly three decades ago, and the head sushi chef has been with Osaka for 15 years. This type of tenure in the restaurant business is quite rare. It speaks to the consistency and loyalty that the Chous have established in the workplace and the high level of job satisfaction among the employees. The Osaka team is truly a family.
Open daily for lunch and dinner, Osaka offers hibachi, a full-service bar, and sushi and sashimi from their expansive sushi bar, which is the heart of each of its locations. The exterior architecture of the buildings, surrounded by koi ponds and tranquil landscaping, will make you feel as if you’re entering an authentic local restaurant in Osaka, Japan. Upon arrival, friendly, familiar faces greet each guest. The interior of each location highlights the simple and sleek nature of the steakhouse with Japanese artifacts, artwork, and various notable awards the Chous have won over the years adorning the walls.
Whether you’re seated at a hibachi table or the sushi bar, the Osaka staff makes you feel like family. One of the unique things about the restaurants is the open concept—you can see all of your food prepared in front of you by one of their talented culinary masters. A show in itself, the hibachi room is filled with excitement, laughter, and the delightful aroma of fried rice.
Step inside the sushi bar area to witness their meticulous handcrafted rolls filled with the best fresh seafood and ingredients along the Emerald Coast. Osaka uses local seafood delivered daily, homegrown produce, and high-quality meats to create each dish on its expansive menu. Try something new during each visit, or sample one of their daily sushi specials made with seasonal ingredients in mind. Expand your culinary palate and explore the authentic flavors of Osaka.
Visit osakahibachiandsushi.com to find out more about booking your reservation for lunch, dinner, or your next special occasion. Find Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date with current specials, events, and more.
By Taylor Sheekley
Article courtesy of Proffitt PR
Photography courtesy of Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar