The sound of snipping scissors at Hibachi Soul’s grand opening was music to owners Donzell Jones and Sharell Pointer’s ears.

On July 9, dozens of community members filled the Lake Street storefront to show support for the business.

The restaurant has a blend of soul and hibachi created by Pointer. The menu puts a twist on everything, from egg rolls to a secret Yum Yum sauce.

“After I graduated culinary school, it was my dream to make a place like this,” Pointer said.

Jones and Pointer have worked together to make their dream a reality, combining Jones’ business experience and Pointer’s culinary background.

The official opening was hindered by the difficulty of finding staff to operate the business. Jones said it wasn’t easy to hire after COVID-19, and it has been difficult to staff the location properly.

“The economy isn’t perfect, but we’ve done really well in our soft opening,” Jones said. “We have done so well, we are already looking to add another location already.”

Mayor Jerry Fiala and Michelle Hartman, interim executive director of the Kent Chamber of Commerce, attended the opening and facilitated the ribbon cutting.

“We are excited about the opening,” Fiala said. “It’s a great location, and I’m glad the Donzell and Sharell are making this happen.”

Hartman said both she and Fiala endorse the business and were glad to be attendance.

“Hibachi Soul is completely different than every other hibachi restaurant you’ve ever been to,” Jones said. “Everything is made fresh in house and is created by Sharell … you won’t find another place like ours.

The restaurant is open everyday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located at 1143 Lake St.

Berkeley Chadwick is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].