JAMES CITY COUNTY — Celebrating one year of ‘good food by a good dude,’ Hibachi Buddha continues to provide fresh, made-to-order takeout to the community while considering future opportunities.
Located at 5242 Olde Towne Road (near Uncle Russ’ Dockside Seafood Market) the restaurant is owned by Chef Arnell and Vashiona Moore — who regulars know as Mr. and Mrs. Hibachi Buddha.
“The first year has been a learning experience — from opening up a new business, adjusting to your customer base and how to continue keeping sales going during the slow periods,” Arnell said.
The dream of owning their own hibachi-style business began in a garage.
During the 2020 Covid pandemic shutdown, and with nowhere to eat out for a Mother’s Day celebration, Arnell decided to make a hibachi-style dinner for the family and streamed the cook live for social media.
This was not Arnell’s first cook, however. He has been a chef for 20 years, beginning his culinary training in New York City working at corporate law firms and at Googles’ New York City location.
The Moores honed their recipes for three years before opening up their first brick-and-mortar location. Now, Arnell has a bigger vision.
“I want restaurants all across the 757 and to launch a food truck. I think we would be able to reach a lot more people with a truck but, things come in due time,” he explains.
With a price point for all budgets and weekly specials, the business aims to cater to all clientele.
A menu favorite is the $7.95 ‘lunch’ special — served all day. Arnell says “It is the same quality of food just in a smaller portion. I am committed to making each dish with love. The first dish will taste like the last dish.”
“My husband really is a good dude with good food. We have a sign in the restaurant that says ‘do it with passion or don’t do it all,’ and that is something he (Arnell) really prides himself on.” Vashiona continued, “We want to be consistent and make sure everyone tastes the same good food at 11 a.m. as they do at 7 p.m.”
The restaurant is open for orders Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Catering is also available.
Hibachi Buddha is active on social media. Be sure to visit its webpage, Facebook page and TikTok.
