By Mackenzie Palmer
Imagine a restaurant that offers customers two distinct dining experiences under one roof. Located at 4910 S. Tamiami Trail, DaRuMa features two separate dining rooms, each with its own unique menu.
One side offers a Teppanyaki experience, where chefs prepare meals on a hibachi grill right at the table. “On the Teppanyaki side, everything comes with soup, salad, shrimp Pompeii, stir-fried vegetables, steamed rice, and green tea,” General Manager Ron Butine explained. “Customers choose their protein, and the price is based on that selection. Everyone gets the same sides.”
The other side is a traditional dining room, where dishes are prepared in the kitchen and brought to the table. This menu features authentic Japanese options like tempura, teriyaki, and sushi. “Most of our entrees on the traditional menu are petite-sized, but we also offer full sizes,” Butine said. “This allows customers to enjoy an entree and still have room for sushi.”
Butine has been with DaRuMa for 33 years. Originally planning to stay just a few months, he became enamored with the restaurant, inspired by the vision of its founder, Hsin Ting Chang. “I fell in love with his vision, the quality of the product, and what DaRuMa represents,” Butine said. He worked closely with Chang, helping to open new locations and manage interior designs. “Chang wanted to bring high-quality Japanese food to America. I learned a lot from him before he passed.”
DaRuMa operates from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. One of Chang’s lasting influences is the emphasis on maintaining a small, loyal staff, which Butine believes ensures happier, well-paid employees. “Not having double shifts means our staff isn’t overworked, and it shows in the service,” Butine said. “I get many compliments on my team, and I work to keep improving.”
This DaRuMa location has been serving guests for six years and is one of three locations. Customers consistently praise the service and quality, the same elements that turned Butine’s brief stint into a 33-year career, one he continues to cherish.
