Today I celebrated my birthday and had lunch…. In style.

Originally we were going to eat lunch at the Olive Garden but Mom asked me if I wanted to trade up for a better dining experience. So I agreed and we went to EDO Hibachi Bar and Restaurant. The Japanese restaurant is located behind Westmoreland Mall in what’s known as the Westmoreland Crossings. At one time, Buffalo Wild Wings was in the spot before they moved up to the Sam’s Club plaza in the mid 2010’s.
We arrived at 11:30 for lunch and thus, we had no trouble getting seated. Centered around our table was a huge hibachi grill where they cook your food. After waiting for about 15-20 minutes, our chef introduced himself and got to work.
I felt like I was truly entertained watching him prepare our lunch. We all got hibachi (Mom and Annabelle got the steak; I got the shrimp). Never in my life have I been so close to flames 🔥 than I was today. Not even at a magic show. It was the best experience of my life so far.
Watching the butter melt, as well as the little volcano he made from the sliced onions was just amazing. He tossed our steak and shrimp on the grill and offered a little fried rice, to which we agreed. Our lunch was served and we knew we weren’t going to finish it all in one meal. Plenty to go around for dinner and for a late night lunch break at work.
Did I mention this hibachi contained onions and mushrooms? Did I mention that I enjoyed it?

Today wasn’t just a great dining experience, it was also a day of change for me. Lately I’ve dropped a lot of the things that have been holding me back and one was being tense. I’ve relaxed a lot and it’s paying dividends for me.
Today was trying new experiences. I’m passing both those tests. Not with A’s but enough to show that I’m trying to better myself.
The food was amazing, the experience had me on the edge of my seat, and the service was excellent. I found my spot for my monthly dinner with Mr. Clougherty for August. Be warned: If you don’t like vegetables then this may not be the place for you.
I will be back for dinner with Mr. Clougherty, and I’ll try to talk Katie and Matt into doing this as well.
Grade: A+