Yamato: Teppan, Steak, and Sushi Restaurant in Valencia

Yamato Valencia is a Japanese restaurant that is housed in a traditional Japanese style building surrounded by a Koi fish pond. It is located in a popular shopping mall of the rapidly developing Stevenson Ranch area in California, USA.

The facade of YAMATO Valencia in California , USA.
(Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangcol)

Famous for Teppan Yaki, or the act of  cooking in front of the customer, Yamato allows the customer to not only witness and appreciate the cooking process but also offers a genuine experience of Japanese tradition and cultural mastery of its chefs, as if you are watching an episode of the show Iron Chef :p.

Teppan Yaki
(Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangcol)

Hot off the grill!
(Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangcol)

Once you step into the restaurant, you are welcomed by gigantic lanterns that hang from the ceiling, Upon entering the hall, rows of teppan tables scattered around the area will greet you, and lead your eyes towards the the revolving sushi bar (How cool is that!) at the end of the room. On the right side is a cantina that serves a full bar while you wait for your table, where you can watch your favorite sports team, and which displays some nostalgic items from Japan's historical past. 

The cantina
(Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangcol)

With the teppan yaki experience, revolving sushi counter, traditional dining, sake, and exotic Japanese cocktails, Yamato Valencia provides an unforgetable experience of Japanese culinary taste and culture amidst the hustle and bustle of Californian city life. So the next time you are at the Golden State, drop by the ranch area and have a teppan yaki at Yamato! :) 

Itadakimasu! :)
(Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangccol)