Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant

Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant brings the vibrant, sizzling theater of Japanese Teppanyaki dining to the heart of Dickson, Australian Capital Territory. Opened in 2015, this intimate venue combines authentic Japanese culinary techniques with Western-style entertainment, creating a memorable experience centered around grilling on a hotplate. The restaurant's name itself explains the craft: Teppan refers to the hotplate, and Yaki means grill. At Shin Sen, skilled chefs prepare a multi-course feast right before your eyes, turning dinner into a live performance complete with radiant flames and flashing knives.

Located at 71/2 Cape St, Shin Sen Teppanyaki is a fixture of Canberra's dining scene, known for its lively atmosphere and hands-on approach to Japanese cuisine. The restaurant holds a 4.3-star rating on Google Maps from 251 reviews, reflecting its consistent ability to deliver an engaging evening out. Diners can expect both dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options, making the restaurant adaptable for different needs, though the heart of the experience is definitely sitting around the teppan grill.

Teppanyaki Menu and Dining at Shin Sen

The menu at Shin Sen Teppanyaki is built around a multi-course Teppanyaki experience. Guests can choose from set menus designed for different group sizes, with a popular option being the set menu for four people. The meal features a variety of proteins and vegetables grilled on the hotplate, often including classics like miso soup and sushi. According to Google Maps, the price range is estimated at $40–60 per person, which aligns with the restaurant's stated minimum spending of $51.90 for adults and $30.90 for children under 11, with one set per person required.

It's important to note that the restaurant's focus is squarely on evening Teppanyaki sessions. Lunch service is not currently available, though special group reservations can be made by phone for Sunday and lunchtime events with a minimum spend of $600. The menu and dining style are designed for shared, communal enjoyment, making it a popular choice for celebrations and family gatherings.

Signature Teppanyaki Dishes

• Miso Soup: A traditional starter featured on the restaurant's online menu, setting a classic Japanese tone for the meal ahead.
• Sushi: Highlighted alongside miso soup, sushi is another staple that complements the grilled main courses.
• Grilled Seafood and Meats: A selection of proteins including beef, chicken, and seafood are cooked to order on the teppan grill, accompanied by grilled vegetables.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant's 4.3-star rating on Google Maps, based on 251 reviews, paints a picture of a venue that excels at creating a fun, memorable atmosphere. Many reviewers describe their visits as celebrations, citing the restaurant as an ideal spot for birthdays and special family dinners. The performance aspect of the meal is a recurring highlight, with diners frequently praising the chefs for their entertaining and skilled cooking demonstrations.

Not all feedback is universally positive, which helps potential diners set realistic expectations. One reviewer, N B, a Local Guide with 77 reviews, described their visit for a daughter's birthday as "a really nice evening" with "fantastic food, a great chef and a super atmosphere!" They warmly recommended it for celebrations. Conversely, Daisy Yuen, who ordered a set menu for four, felt the food quality did not match the price point, noting that "squid and lobster were frozen and tasteless" and that the dishes were "way too salty — that's not Japanese." The owner responded to this feedback, thanking the reviewer and acknowledging their comments about the staff being friendly and entertaining. This mix of reviews underscores that while the show is a consistent crowd-pleaser, individual taste preferences regarding seasoning and ingredient quality can vary.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Dining at Shin Sen Teppanyaki is a structured experience, and understanding the policies beforehand ensures a smooth visit. The restaurant has a maximum occupancy of 25 people, creating a more personal and interactive atmosphere. Reservations are mandatory and must be made at least 24 hours in advance. A deposit of $20 per person is required to secure a booking, which is a common practice for Teppanyaki restaurants to manage seating and food preparation accurately.

Each dining session has a strict 1.5-hour sitting time, and tables are held for only 10 minutes past the booking time. If you are running more than 10 minutes late, the reservation will be canceled, as each session must finish on time for the next guests. The restaurant is open Monday to Friday with sessions at 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM, and on Saturday with sessions at 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:00 PM. The kitchen closes at 8:30 PM. Additional charges include a 1.2% surcharge on all card transactions, a 10% surcharge on Sundays, a 15% surcharge on public holidays, a $9 per bottle BYO fee, and a $2 per head cakeage fee.

Location and Accessibility in Dickson

Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant is situated at 71/2 Cape St, in the bustling dining precinct of Dickson, ACT. The area is well-known for its diverse culinary offerings, and the restaurant benefits from being surrounded by plenty of parking, a point specifically noted in a customer review. The restaurant has a toilet inside the venue.

Google Maps attributes indicate the restaurant offers dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services, providing flexibility for customers. For those using public transport, the area is accessible, and the location is also suitable for cycling and walking, as indicated by Maps directions for driving, transit, walking, and biking.

Common Questions

Is a reservation required at Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant?

Yes, reservations are strictly required and must be made at least 24 hours in advance. You can book by calling 02 6262 7888 or texting 0413 930 687. A deposit of $20 per person is necessary to confirm your booking.

What are the opening hours of Shin Sen Teppanyaki?

The restaurant is open Monday to Friday from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The kitchen closes at 8:30 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays, but special group reservations can be made by phone for Sunday and lunchtime events with a minimum spend of $600.

Does Shin Sen Teppanyaki accommodate dietary restrictions?

The restaurant's menu is focused on Teppanyaki grilled items including meats, seafood, and vegetables. Contact Shin Sen directly to discuss any specific dietary needs or allergies before making a reservation, so the staff can advise on suitable options.

What is the pricing structure and are there any extra costs?

The minimum spend per person is $51.90 for adults and $30.90 for children under 11. Additional costs include a $20 per person deposit, a 1.2% card surcharge, a 10% surcharge on Sundays, a 15% surcharge on public holidays, a $9 per bottle BYO fee, and a $2 per head cakeage fee.

Is Shin Sen Teppanyaki suitable for a child's birthday party?

Yes, customer reviews on Google Maps highlight that the restaurant is a fantastic venue for family celebrations, including children's birthdays. The entertaining Teppanyaki show is particularly engaging for young guests.

Does the restaurant offer takeaway or delivery?

Yes, according to Google Maps, Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant offers takeaway and delivery services in addition to dine-in. However, the core Teppanyaki experience is best enjoyed in the restaurant with the live cooking performance.