Seemor
Benihana Covent GardenBWorth Trying
31 Maiden Ln, London WC2E 7JS
· Japanese restaurant, Lunch restaurant, Sushi restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (949 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
High-energy teppanyaki show with good-but-variable food and very expensive pricing; great for celebrations, less ideal if you want culinary depth over theatrics.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Benihana Covent Garden delivers reliable entertainment value with engaging, responsive service and convenient pre-theater positioning in London's West End. However, inconsistent food execution—particularly seasoning and doneness—varies noticeably by chef, and solid but not exceptional flavor profiles limit appeal for diners prioritizing culinary quality over spectacle. Best suited for celebrations and first-time visitors who value the performance as much as the plate.
Restaurant Summary
The scene here is all about the grill: chefs flipping shrimp, carving steak, and building onion volcanos while a semi-circle of guests cheer them on. The room feels lively and celebratory, with staff often coordinating birthdays and groups. As one guest put it, the night succeeds when the chef delivers both fun and finesse, but the heat and noise can spike at busy times. The cooking leans classic teppanyaki—grilled proteins, fried rice, and simple sauces—so the culinary approach is elevated traditional rather than avant-garde. When execution is on, steak and salmon come off tender and satisfying; when it misses, seasoning or doneness can feel flat. Think of it as dinner plus a show—great for first-timers, celebrations, and anyone who values the performance as much as the plate. Families often do well here: kids enjoy the spectacle and straightforward food like hibachi chicken and fried rice, and there are vegetarian basics and simple sushi rolls that many children will eat. That said, shared tables, higher prices, and a loud, hot grill can be a lot for very young diners, so early bookings and lunch sets are the easiest entry point.
At a Glance
- Big-night-out energy with entertaining chef performances
- Portions often generous, set menus simplify ordering
- Very expensive for food quality if you do not value the show
- Execution varies by chef (seasoning and doneness inconsistencies)
- Shared-table format can feel rushed or loud at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- tableside_teppanyaki_show
- celebration_ready_birthday_service
- central_covent_garden_location
What People Love
- The interactive chef performance feels like a mini show
- Celebration touches like birthday songs and surprise desserts
- Central location that is easy to reach by transit
- Set menus that keep decisions simple for groups
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely high (mains £30-£50; combos higher) which can surprise casual diners
- Quality varies by chef, with some reports of bland or overcooked items
- Allergy handling is usually good but not flawless; confirm at arrival and with the chef
- Ventilation and heat near grills can be uncomfortable on busy or hot days
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£48-66 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose a mid-tier dinner set (Hibachi Sirloin or Filet) and share sides to control costs
- Order fried rice with garlic if you prefer robust seasoning; otherwise stick to standard hibachi rice
Perfect For
- Birthday or milestone dinners where showmanship matters
- Team outings and group celebrations
- Visitors staying near Covent Garden theaters
- Families with school-age kids who enjoy a lively show
Location Insights
Area: Touristed cultural core with theaters, markets, and after-work crowds; lively evenings and weekend footfall.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe with strong lighting; typical central-London petty-theft vigilance advised.
Nearby: Near Covent Garden Piazza, Strand theaters, bars, and shopping; many group-friendly venues nearby.
Covent GardenVibrant cultural and dining hub featuring historic market buildings, boutique shops, street performers, and a diverse range of restaurants and cafes. Known for its lively atmosphere and proximity to West End theaters.
West StrandElegant area near the Royal Opera House with sophisticated dining options and cultural venues.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Friday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:30
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →