History of Hibachi Hut in Aggieville, Manhattan, KS

Business History

Hibachi Hut (The Hut) was opened in 1959. The building has changed some over the years, but the biggest change was the opening of the dining room on the south side of The Hut location.

The Hut has been part of people's lives for years. Friends come back to see us and tell us many stories/memories about the restaurant. It is exciting to be part of the Aggieville and Manhattan experience.

Marc and Kale

Owner History

The first owners of The Hut were Margaret Harensharr and John Anderson.

The next owner was Charlie Bush. After three years, John Heritage became the new owner. John added the south dining area and owned the restaurant until July 1, 2004, when the Beckers purchased the restaurant.

The current owners are Bill Becker, Sandra Becker, Kale Becker, and Marc Claas. Bill and Sandra are originally from Goodland, KS, and each spent over 36 years in public education (Bill, school administrator; Sandra, teacher) in Ottawa County, KS. Both earned Masters from KSU.  Kale graduated from Minneapolis High School, KS, and KSU. Marc is from Seneca, KS and also attended KSU. 

Hibachi Hut has a great history. We want to continue to serve you great food and to part of your family for many years to come!

Hibachi Hut Mural

Restaurant Picture/Mural

The picture/mural in both dining rooms have great history.

The photo in the back of the Hibachi Hut has been a favorite of patrons for many years. The photo is a picture of Avery Island, "The home of world-famous TABASCO® Sauce. Avery Island, LA, lies about 140 miles west of New Orleans. Surrounded by swamps and marshes, Avery Island is a ... natural paradise, inhabited by exotic plant and animal species from around the world." The photo was taken by Rod McKinski, Manhattan Mercury.

The mural in the south dining room is a wonderful piece of art. Diners enjoy studying the mural as they are enjoying their meals. Graphic Artist Phyllis Pease created the mural. The mural, "Serenading the Peppers," is an acrylic on hard board. When studying the mural, you will see the artist's uncle, mom, and friend in the design. Other works by Phyllis Pease can be seen in Manhattan at the Westloop branch of the Kansas State Bank and So Long Saloon. She also designed the apple for the Little Apple New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Celebration. Stop in to see this wonderful mural.