Tombachi Restaurants crowned best food truck in Raleigh for WRAL Voters' Choice Awards

Tom Vigdor, the owner/operator of Tombachi Restaurants, embarked on a culinary journey in Raleigh with a vision of bridging the gap between high-quality food and dining convenience. His unique approach to delivering top-notch cuisine to the community has gathered a lot of attention and success, evidenced by a recent recognition as the best food truck for the WRAL Voters' Choice Awards (VCAs) after just over a year in business.

"We found that in Raleigh, there was a gap between the quality food and the convenience of food," Vigdor said. "Either you have to go in and dine, wait for 30 minutes, and spend a fortune, or you have to sacrifice the quality of food, especially when it comes to hibachi."

However, it's not just the food that makes Tombachi special. The team, led by Vigdor and a crew of passionate individuals like Sarah, Brian and Michael, prioritizes the customer experience as much as the cuisine.

"We've all been places where great food was ruined by bad service," says Vigdor. "We want people to feel welcome, to ask questions, and to know that it's not just about the food here – it's about creating a community."

Tombachi Restaurants, located in downtown Raleigh boasts an array of signature dishes, with their famous fried rice that comes with every meal. Recent additions like Yakisoba silver noodles have become instant favorites. The menu features marinated chicken, hand-cut ribeye steak, salmon, jumbo shrimp and top-selling dumplings. Vigdor commits to continuous innovation, promising to introduce new menu options to cater to the diverse tastes of the community.

"Hopefully, we can continue to innovate and just add new menu options that continue to serve the rest of the community," Vigdor said.

Tombachi's success hasn't gone unnoticed. In just over a year, the truck has already garnered prestigious awards like WRAL Voters' Choice Award, a testament to the quality and dedication behind the brand.

"It's amazing to have won WRAL's Voters' Choice after being open just over a year," Vigdor said. "I think what separates us is that food quality and people can tell a difference. It's a lot of work on the backend to make this all possible."

Vigdor says for every hour they are opened, the team preps for hours, making sure the quality is there. And that translates to good products in and good products out.

"The customers on the end of it can really tell the difference," Vigdor said.

But amid the growth, Vigdor remains committed to maintaining the core values that have made Tombachi a success. "As we grow, we want to make sure everything stays true to our brand," he says. "It's not just about serving food; it's about creating a space where people feel welcome, connected, and satisfied."

Vigdor believes that customer service is as crucial as the quality of the cuisine.

"The whole team really does look after the customer experience, which is just as important as the quality of the cuisine," Vigdor said. "We have been to places where the food was good, but the server was rude, and it can ruin the whole experience. So we see that as a clear sign that customer service matters,"

Even when the temperature plummets to the 30s, loyal customers like Michael Adams still find the time to stop by and grab food.

"It's cold out here, but I have been coming here a long time," Adams said. "I love these guys; they are always out serving, so whenever I am near, I always try and come through."

Adam says it is never a long wait to receive his order when he comes, and he loves several dishes.

"I have a few favorites from the salmon, chicken, a plate they call a triple threat, and also the half and half," Adams said. "You can't go wrong with any of these dishes."

Looking ahead, Tombachi restaurants have ambitious plans for growth. With the coming arrival of truck number 2, scheduled for completion by July, the restaurant aims to expand its reach in the Triangle. Vigdor emphasizes the importance of maintaining the brand's integrity and values as they grow.

He says the food truck will be in front of Vault Craft Beer from Monday through Wednesday, 12 to 7 p.m., for all of January into February.

Vigdor expresses gratitude for winning WRAL Voters' Choice Awards and extends thanks to the loyal and new customers who have made Tombachi Restaurants successful. He encourages feedback and reviews, recognizing the importance of the local community that has joined them on their journey.

Tombachi restaurant's food truck has received numerous positive reviews.

One customer expressed satisfaction, stating, "I'm a hibachi connoisseur. This is probably the best I've ever had. Better than most restaurants. Good job, Tom and team! Will def be looking for the next location!" Another review said, "Hands down the best in the city. I had to dance while eating because it was so good."

More than just a food truck; Tombachi is an experience. It's the grill sizzle, the crowd's vibrant chatter, and the pure joy of indulging in a familiar and exciting meal. It's a testament to the passion and creativity of the people behind the wheel, who constantly pushing the boundaries of what hibachi can be.

So, next time you're craving something fresh, flavorful and fun, seek out the Tombachi Restaurants.

Ready to experience Tombachi for yourself?

Follow them on social media:

• Instagram: @tombachirestaurants
• Facebook: @TombachiRestaurants
• Check out their website: http://tombachirestaurants.com/