Benihana Enlists SITE Architects for NYC Renovation

MIAMI, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ:  BNHNA; BNHN), the nation's leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, has partnered with SITE, an award-winning architectural design firm, for a complete renovation of its New York City restaurant located at 47 West 56th Street.  This location will close on September 4th for a stunning transformation that will be revealed in December 2011.

In an effort to ensure that Benihana New York remains a top destination for authentic teppanyaki dining, the restaurant is undergoing a dramatic expansion and renovation. Currently housed in a second-floor location, Benihana's expansion will include the acquisition of the first floor for a total of almost 1,700 square feet.  The first floor will feature a contemporary sushi and cocktail bar, great for after-work drinks and meeting friends.  The second floor will continue to be the destination for Benihana's famous teppanyaki tables, but with an improved ventilation system, updated decor and additional private dining areas.

SITE is a celebrated New York City based multi-disciplinary architecture and environmental arts organization.  Founded by James Wines in 1970, its various projects have included the iconic original Shake Shack in Madison Square Park as well as other ground-breaking commercial and residential properties around the world.

"Benihana first opened its doors in New York City in 1964 introducing Japanese dining to millions of guests.  New York has always been such an integral part of the Benihana story and we're looking forward to unveiling our new restaurant design to the Big Apple in time for the holidays," said Richard Stockinger, president and chief executive officer of Benihana Inc.

For more information about Benihana or to find a location near you, visit:  www.benihana.com.

About Benihana

Headquartered in Miami, Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ GS: BNHN, BNHNA) is the nation's leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants with 96 restaurants nationwide, including 63 Benihana restaurants, eight Haru sushi restaurants, and 25 RA Sushi restaurants. In addition, 18 franchised Benihana restaurants are operating in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. To learn more about Benihana Inc. and its three restaurant concepts, please view the corporate video at www.benihana.com/about/video.  

SOURCE Benihana Inc.