The Top 25 Benihana Interview Questions You Need to Know (2024)

Interviewing at the famous teppanyaki restaurant Benihana? You’ll want to be prepared for the types of questions you may encounter during the interview process. Benihana is known not just for its delicious Japanese-inspired cuisine but also for its unique dining experience that turns cooking into engaging entertainment.

As a Benihana employee, you’ll need to be comfortable multitasking, working as part of a cohesive team, and interacting with guests to provide top-notch customer service. The interview aims to assess whether you have the necessary skills and align with Benihana’s vibrant company culture

In this comprehensive guide we will explore the top 25 most common Benihana interview questions, providing tips and sample responses to help you prepare effectively. Read on to get insights into succeeding in your Benihana job interview!

Overview of the Benihana Interview Process

The Benihana interview process typically involves one to three rounds of in-person interviews, depending on the position. You can expect to meet with the restaurant manager, other department heads, and potentially the regional manager for upper-level roles.

Some key traits Benihana looks for are excellent communication abilities, passion for hospitality, flexibility, and the aptitude to multitask smoothly. Experience in the restaurant industry is desired but not mandatory for entry-level roles if you demonstrate the right attitude and potential.

Interviews are described as conversational and relatively relaxed. However, you will still need to come prepared to answer situational questions, speak about your skills and experience, and convince the interviewer you are the right fit for the job and company culture.

Let’s now dive into the top 25 most frequently asked interview questions at Benihana:

1. Why do you want to work for Benihana?

This common question aims to gauge your interest in the company and role. The interviewer wants to know what attracts you specifically to Benihana compared to other restaurants.

Sample Response: I am truly fascinated by the unique dining experience Benihana provides its guests. The high-energy atmosphere, dynamic kitchen theater, and focus on engaging all the senses really appeals to me. I also value the company’s emphasis on teamwork and guest interaction, which aligns well with my strengths in communication and customer service. I believe that I could thrive in the fast-paced but lively work environment at Benihana. This opportunity seems like a great way to develop my hospitality skills while being part of an iconic brand.

2. What do you know about our company and history?

With this question, the interviewer expects you to have done your research on Benihana. They want to assess your interest in the company and how much you know about its story.

Sample Response: I’m very impressed by Benihana’s origins and success over the decades. It was founded in 1964 by Rocky Aoki, who innovated the theatrical “teppanyaki-style” dining experience. From just one restaurant, Benihana has expanded to over 100 locations worldwide today. The chain is credited with popularizing Japanese cuisine, especially teppanyaki and sushi, in America. A key part of Benihana’s appeal is providing guests with a memorable dining experience steeped in Japanese traditions. The chefs engagingly prepare meals at guests’ tables through intricate chopping techniques and flairs. This interactive concept has allowed Benihana to stand out from typical restaurants for over 50 years now.

3. Why do you want to be a server/chef/manager?

This question gauges your motivations for pursuing the specific position you’ve applied to. The interviewer wants to know why you’re interested in the role and responsibilities it entails.

Sample Response: I’m applying to be a server because I thrive in high-energy environments that involve actively engaging with people. Serving guests, answering their questions about menu items, and ensuring they have a wonderful dining experience seems like a perfect fit for my outgoing personality and passion for hospitality. I also enjoy the fast-paced nature of working as a server in a busy restaurant like Benihana. I’m confident that my communication skills, ability to multitask, and commitment to providing top-notch customer service make me well-suited for this role.

4. What qualities make an excellent server/chef/manager?

Here the interviewer wants to assess whether you understand and possess the key attributes required for success in the position. Your ability to articulate the most important qualities will demonstrate self-awareness and show you comprehend the role.

Sample Response: In my opinion, the most important qualities for an excellent server are attention to detail, efficiency, friendliness, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Servers need to listen carefully, take orders accurately, and relay messages clearly between kitchen and guests. They should be able to juggle multiple tasks seamlessly while maintaining a calm, patient, and helpful demeanor with customers. As someone who stays focused under pressure, loves interacting with people, and has a knack for multitasking, I believe I have the right qualities to provide outstanding service at Benihana.

5. How would you handle an unhappy or impatient customer?

Since providing excellent customer service is paramount in hospitality, expect interviewers to inquire about your approach to handling difficult situations with guests. Your response will reveal your customer service skills and attitude.

Sample Response: If faced with an unhappy or impatient customer, I would first listen attentively to understand the root of their dissatisfaction without interrupting them. After apologizing sincerely, I would try to find a solution, whether that involves replacing a problematic dish, offering a discount, or simply thanking them for their feedback. Patience and empathy are key even when handling difficult guests. My aim would be to turn the situation around to the best of my abilities so that the customer leaves satisfied. This also provides valuable insight into improving our services. I understand that effectively dealing with challenges is imperative for any restaurant’s success.

6. Tell us about a time you went above and beyond for a customer.

Here the interviewer wants a specific example that demonstrates your commitment to delivering amazing customer service. Your answer will reveal key skills like problem-solving, communication, and initiative.

Sample Response: Working as a server, I once had an elderly couple come in to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. They mentioned this casually while being seated. After taking their order, I discreetly informed the manager and kitchen staff. Together, we quickly prepared a small dessert with a message congratulating the couple’s milestone anniversary. When I surprised them with the dessert, their delight was palpable. We even added a Polaroid photo to our guest memories board. This is just one example, but I’m always on the lookout for small ways to make guests feel special. It’s what true hospitality is about for me.

7. How would you promote teamwork if you were a manager?

For leadership roles, expect questions assessing your ability to motivate teams and foster collaboration. Share specific examples of promoting teamwork to show you can bring people together effectively.

Sample Response: I strongly believe a cohesive team is critical for success in the fast-paced restaurant industry. As a manager, I would promote teamwork by setting clear communication protocols, encouraging openness, and leading by example. For instance, I would establish brief daily team huddles for exchanging important updates and giving recognition. My door would always be open to team members needing guidance or wanting to share ideas. I would also highlight examples of excellent teamwork among the staff to motivate and inspire everyone to work collaboratively, rather than in silos, to provide amazing guest experiences.

8. How do you handle working under pressure?

Thriving under pressure is a valued skill in the hospitality sector. Share examples that demonstrate you can maintain performance and composure even during stressful situations.

Sample Response: In my experience, the hospitality industry inevitably involves pressure-filled moments when handling multiple tasks or dealing with emergencies. For instance, while working as a server during peak restaurant hours when orders were backed up. I stayed composed by focusing on tackling one task at a time, while communicating openly with the kitchen staff and customers about expected wait times. My ability to tune out distractions, re-prioritize if needed, and avoid panic allows me to deliver consistent service even in high-pressure moments. I’m confident these skills will enable me to think clearly and act decisively when on-the-job challenges arise.

9. What steps would you take to learn a new menu?

Since menus frequently change in the restaurant business, it is important to demonstrate you can quickly and thoroughly learn new menu items. Your response should highlight both your independent learning abilities and commitment to providing accurate information to guests.

Sample Response: When learning a new menu, I find it extremely helpful to first thoroughly review the list on my own, taking notes about new dishes, ingredients, and prices. Trying sample dishes is also invaluable for understanding the flavors and plating. Additionally, I make sure to engage with the kitchen team to gain as much knowledge as possible about new items and ask any clarifying questions about descriptions or preparation methods. Lastly, I like to quiz myself or have others test me on the menu, so I can identify any gaps and continue studying until I’m confident I have it mastered. I know how vital menu knowledge is for providing excellent customer service as a server