SIZZLING AND SATISFYING: Qun Lin on a roll with VKI Steakhouse's sushi, hibachi

Santa Rosa Beach now has hibachi lovers covered.

VKI Steakhouse recently opened next door to Louis Louis on Highway 98, and boasts the only hibachi-style dining experience in Santa Rosa Beach.

“Family fun,” is the best part of the experience, according to owner, operator, and sometimes Sushi chef Qun Lin.

In addition to the hibachi, the restaurant offers items from the kitchen, from appetizers to Japanese noodles to tempura dishes, and a plethora of artfully presented sushi items.

There are more than 50 rolls of sushi to choose from, but Lin recommends the Crazy Tuna, which is crunchy spicy tuna on the inside and topped with black pepper tuna and avocado. He also recommends the Bomb Lobster Roll, which has deep-fried lobster, mango, avocado, lobster salad, and masago, or roe.

Each item is expertly rolled and presented like a work of art, down to the carrot carved to resemble a bird of paradise.

It looks almost too beautiful to eat, but it tastes just as good as it looks. (The Pink Lady Roll with salmon, lemon and kiwi is my personal favorite.)

The business has been in the works for four years, according to Lin, whose dream became a reality just recently.

For diners, it is certainly worth the wait.

“We did really good Friday and Saturday,” said Lin of the steady stream of customers who came to enjoy eye- and palate-pleasing hibachi and sushi rolls.

Whether you’re dining alone or you travel with an entourage, VKI Steakhouse can accommodate your group.

“For hibachi, we can have parties of 18,” said Lin.

For those who can’t get over to the restaurant in the evening hours, the restaurant has a good selection of lunch offerings. On the menu for the lunch crowd are bento boxes, which come with a soup or salad, California or Spicy Tuna roll, and an entrée of choice. Sushi options, including combinations, are also available along with a hibachi lunch special.

VKI Steakhouse is open for lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day of the week, and for dinner 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 4:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Call 850-267-2555 for reservations.