Matthew Yelick If you’re anywhere near Lufkin, Texas, do yourself a favor and stop by Tsubaki Japanese Restaurant—this place sets the standard for what great sushi and hibachi should be.
From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels warm, welcoming, and genuinely authentic. The staff is attentive without being overbearing, and everything from the décor to the presentation screams quality.
But the real stars of the experience are the chefs.
Sushi Master Audi is in a league of his own. Every roll is crafted with precision, balance, and creativity. The fish is unbelievably fresh, the cuts are perfect, and the flavors are clean and bold. You can tell he takes pride in every plate that leaves his station. If you’re a sushi lover, Audi will absolutely ruin every other sushi spot for you within a 3 hour radius—in the best way .
On the hibachi side, Ive heard Chef Wong brings pure entertainment and skill to the table. His timing, techniques, and showmanship keep you smiling the whole time, and the food itself is phenomenal—tender steak, perfectly seared shrimp, vegetables cooked just right, and fried rice that hits every note. He’s fast, funny, and really knows how to create a great hibachi experience.
