Teppanyaki Iron Plate Grilling Restaurant Technique
Origin
Japan — Kobe, Misono restaurant 1945; popularised internationally by Rocky Aoki's Benihana New York 1964
Description
Teppanyaki (literally 'iron plate cooking') involves cooking on a large flat steel or iron griddle at very high temperatures — typically 230–260°C for meats, somewhat lower for vegetables. Originally a home cooking method using portable iron plates, it was transformed into a theatrical restaurant experience by Misono restaurant in Kobe, which in 1945 pioneered the open teppan counter where chefs cook directly in front of seated guests. This format became internationally famous as 'Japanese steakhouse' and was introduced to the United States by Benihana in 1964. Despite its showmanship reputation abroad, teppanyaki in Japan is a serious high-precision cooking discipline.
The Thread
Flavour Context
Deep, even Maillard-developed sear, rendered beef or seafood fat, clean high-heat caramelisation of vegetables, aromatic garlic and sesame finishing notes