JoTo Japanese Steak House - Brandon, Florida

Thomas Knotts

Sad to see a favorite place, lose its reasons for returning. After reading such mixed reviews, we figured we would still give it a shot. We've had great times here. I even challenged the chef, slash owner, for a nice meal mentioning how we were there, despite some bad reviews. I wanted to write a positive review, but sadly, nobody at the table had anything positive to say. In fact, there was mention of going to Kobe next time.
I don't know, everything about the place seemed sad and needs to be refreshed. From the service, surroundings and even the quality of the food. When they'd turn the exhaust fan on, all conversations stopped. When the chef was done, we all commented on how loud the fan was and that it was a relief that he turned the exhaust hood off. They also have a huge saltwater tank that should be a center piece. It also seemed sad with a few lonely fish and no color. The computers were down, so even a drink from the bar had to have a handwritten receipt. Most mentioned that they wouldn't be back.
Please, make some needed upgrades and maintenance so that we can return. I will be watching the reviews.

Alexander Belussi

Growing up in Brandon, going to JoTo was always a special treat. We have celebrated so many birthdays, graduations, and other special events here. We have always felt welcome and left eager for our next visit.

This restaurant used to be of exceptional quality. Things have changed for the worse, and I fear Covid has been especially difficult for this restaurant. Their soup and salad used to be something to look forward to before your meal. Their yum-yum sauce used to be perfect. Now, it tastes like mostly mayonnaise. Even the rice tasted unexciting and flavorless.

Our party of three came in for a reservation at 7:00, and we arrived not a minute late nor early. The other party of four had already been seated and was already finished with their soups and salads by the time we were seated, leaving us behind to play 'catch up'.

The most offensive thing about our meal tonight, however, was the service. Our hostess was very pleasant when we came in, but our waitress seemed agitated and made us feel uncomfortable. She did not even introduce herself to us when we sat down. I fear she may have been one of the only servers in the entire restaurant aside from the hostess who was also assisting tables.

I am reluctant to give this restaurant even three stars. I miss so much about the old restaurant. Like their now mostly empty fish tank, this restaurant is an empty shell of its former self.

Chante Hawkins

I had a great experience the cook was funny and our food was a 2 thumbs up for sure. I would definitely go back for a date night. Everyone was all smiles as he cooked our food. Very flavorful we got shrimp and steak. Great portion of food. We all left fat and full. The drinks were good I took a lot of pictures. We went for my son's 18th birthday they even gave my son half off his meal for his birthday. That was really nice. The only thing the waiter must have been new. He knew nothing and had to keep asking about things we had questions about. But I still have 5 stars because we left happy and had a great time. Would recommend to anyone.

Lizbeth Rollin

We went here with friends. The food was OK, Mediocre at best. My Love and I LOVE hibachi, it's one of our favorites! The soup and usually Yummy ginger dressing on the salad was not tasty at all. I had to force myself to finish it. Which is disappointing because that's one of our favorite parts of why we Love Japanese steak house, the delicious simple soup and salad. The chef was excellent, hilarious actually! I love that they have smaller booths that seat up to 6, if you come with friends. You don't have to share a table with strangers. We most likely will not return however. I'm afraid to try it again, in case it was just a Bad fluke, and I'm forced to finish my meal. And usually there is No forcing us to finish our hibachi meal because we finish every last bit! Our search continues for a delicious Japanese steakhouse.

Lauren

Unfortunately this place is struggling due to covid aftermath. It was disappointing to hear that they do not serve sushi at this time but it was mentioned that “hopefully soon” they will continue. Hibachi dinner was absolutely delicious! The two waitresses and chefs that were working tonight were definitely hustling but you could tell they were overwhelmed. One waitress did mention that it’s true that no one wants to work anymore and they are short staffed! Hopefully this place can get a makeover and survive this pandemic!!

Josué Villa

Phenomenal food and experience. If you're looking for that Kobe experience without the Kobe price tag, this is the place. Awesome assortment of food, priced far lower than similar restaurants. The hibachi tables are also much smaller which allows for a much more intimate meal than at competing restaurants. No more awkward dinners with strangers. Definitely would recommend and will most definitely be returning.

Manuel Monge

Me and my wife went there to eat, parking area was really dark looks like the lighting wasn't working the atmosphere was lacking a little and a server was not really that attentive but the chef cooking The hibachi was great and the food was great...

Jim Mosier

Had a great meal. This place is a great no-frills Japanese hibachi, but don't let "no-frills" fool you. The food, the chefs, the presentation is all on par with Japanese steakhouses that are much more expensive! We will definitely repeat. The chef gave a very entertaining presentation when preparing our meal and the food was great! There was so much of it, neither of us could finish our plates, but a to-go box was out of the question since we were on a motorcycle. Never had to wait long for refills on drinks. A++ Service all the way around.