Jerry

Small Japanese charcoal grills go by several names depending on their regional origins and design. The most common terms are Konro, Shichirin, and Hibachi. These traditional tabletop grills originated in Japan and were designed for high-heat grilling of skewered foods like yakitori and kushiyaki. What makes them unique is the construction from diatomaceous earth or … Read more

There is something magical about gathering around a Japanese tabletop grill at a dinner party. The sizzle of skewers, the aroma of binchotan charcoal, and the social experience of cooking together at the table create memories that last long after the last bite. At KAZ Sushi Bistro, we have hosted countless Japanese dinner parties and … Read more

I’ve spent countless evenings grilling on my apartment balcony, searching for that perfect sear only a traditional hibachi can deliver. After testing 10 different budget hibachi grills under 100 dollars over the past six months, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about finding authentic Japanese grilling experiences without breaking the bank. The market is … Read more

After spending three months testing eight different Japanese grills in my backyard, I can tell you that not all Konro grills are created equal. The difference between an authentic diatomite Konro made in Japan and a knockoff from overseas is night and day. I’ve grilled everything from yakitori skewers to whole vegetables on these bad … Read more

Nothing brings people together like the intimate experience of tabletop grilling. When I host gatherings at KAZ Sushi Bistro, the Konro grill always becomes the centerpiece of conversation and community. There’s something magical about guests cooking their own yakitori skewers over glowing binchotan charcoal while sharing stories and laughter. After testing dozens of grills for … Read more

There’s something special about cooking over charcoal that gas grills just can’t replicate. The smoky flavor, the primal connection to fire, the satisfaction of mastering temperature control—it’s an experience every outdoor cooking enthusiast should try. But if you’re new to charcoal grilling, jumping straight into a massive kettle grill can feel overwhelming. That’s where hibachi … Read more

There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of fresh ingredients hitting a hot cast iron grate, that unmistakable smoky aroma wafting through the air, and the satisfaction of creating restaurant-quality hibachi right in your own backyard. Portable hibachi grills bring this authentic Japanese grilling experience to campsites, tailgates, balconies, and beach picnics without requiring a massive … Read more

There’s something magical about authentic Japanese grilling. The precision, the technique, and most importantly, the equipment. After spending three months testing 14 different Japanese grill grates and accessories with binchotan charcoal, I’ve learned that the right grate can make or break your yakitori experience. Japanese grill grates aren’t just cooking surfaces—they’re engineered tools designed for … Read more

There is something uniquely satisfying about sizzling scallops and perfectly seared steak on a flat top surface in your own kitchen. Over the past few years, I have tested countless teppanyaki plates and accessory sets for home griddles, and I want to share what actually works and what falls short. Whether you are upgrading your … Read more

Hot pot gatherings bring people together around a simmering pot of broth, where everyone cooks their own ingredients at the table. The experience depends heavily on having the right burner beneath your pot. After testing portable butane stoves for years and hearing from countless home cooks and professional chefs, I can tell you that Iwatani … Read more