VALDOSTA — The family that introduced citizens of South Georgia to China Garden Asian Bistro and Marco Polo recently added something new to their restaurant selections — Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse, located at 2913 N. Ashley St.

Business owners Mike and May Gung decided to establish the new restaurant as their last project in Valdosta before they retire.

“They wanted to leave the community with a great restaurant in return for giving them support for over the last 30 years.” said daughter Irene Gung.

The Valdosta area has welcomed the opening of a variety of new businesses within the past year.

“We have an advantage being the only Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar on the north side of town,” Irene Gung said. “And the building is so large, with many hibachi tables, that customers almost never have to wait for a table.”

Currently, Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse has a staff of 50 employees who strive to provide excellent customer service.

The restaurant provides an upscale feel at affordable prices. Menu prices vary depending on the time of day, but lunch prices range from $5.95 to $15.99 and dinner prices range from $9.99 to $100.

With Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse, the Gungs hope to have a positive impact on the community and its residents.

“We hope to give them (the community) a Japanese hibachi and sushi experience that you cannot get elsewhere,” said Irene Gung. “With three plasma screen TVs, four projectors playing Food Network’s big hit, ‘Iron Chef Japan,’ and 14 hibachi tables with seating accommodating up to 10 per table, it’s a great spot for family gatherings and romantic dinners.”

John Yi, who trained in Atlanta and Orlando, Fla., in what some consider the top Japanese sushi bars, has created at Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse a sushi bar complete with approximately 50 sushi items.

“Because we are the largest Japanese hibachi restaurant in Valdosta and have 14 hibachi tables, we are able to host large gatherings fairly quickly,” Irene Gung said. “Our hibachi menu offers dishes from hibachi chicken to live lobster, and we have a drink menu that will be sure to keep you coming for more.”

Ichiban offers Yakiniku or Korean barbecue.

“Our hibachi chefs put on an awesome show because they take passion in their cooking and providing entertainment to their guests.” said Irene Gung.

That same passion is what keeps the Gungs working hard to provide Valdosta the best in dining and entertainment.

To learn more, please call Irene Gung at (229) 249-9010.