AC repair in Statesboro, GA

Hibachi Express & Ramen has officially opened in Statesboro, offering a diverse menu of hibachi, ramen, sushi, and boba tea in a convenient location near campus. With steady crowds, positive feedback, and an affordable lunch special running daily from 10:30 AM to 3 PM, the restaurant is quickly becoming a go-to dining spot in town.

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Hibachi Express & Ramen has officially opened its doors in Statesboro, bringing their fresh take on Japanese inspired cuisine to the community. Located on Tormenta Way near campus, the restaurant is already drawing steady crowds eager to try its offerings of ramen, hibachi, sushi, and more.

Some restaurants use social media buzz before their grand opening, but Hibachi Express & Ramen took a different approach. According to Adrianna Williams, one of the managers of the restaurant, business has been "jam-packed" from the start.

“We didn’t really make a big social media announcement,” Williams explained. “A lot of people are coming just because of the location, which is really exciting.”

The restaurant officially opened on February 3rd, and ever since, it has been a revolving door of customers.

Hibachi Express & Ramen set up shop in a rapidly growing area of Statesboro, a move Williams sees as strategic. “This plaza is really growing, and a lot of new businesses are moving in,” she said. “We’re right by campus, right by [the hospital], and next to a grocery store. It’s easy for people to stop by without having to commit to a full sit-down experience like Texas Roadhouse or Longhorn. You get great food fast, and that’s what people love.”

As the name suggests, Hibachi Express & Ramen specializes in hibachi and ramen, but there’s more to explore. “We also have sushi and appetizers like shrimp tempura,” Williams said. “We’re starting up the boba tea slowly but surely, too.”

Ramen, in particular, has been a big draw. “There aren’t a lot of places in Statesboro that offer ramen,” Williams noted. “That’s why I think it stands out. In Pooler, you have some options, but here, not so much. People who love ramen or have never tried it before are excited to have it available.”

Additionally, their hibachi meals provide a flavorful and convenient option for those looking for high-quality grilled dishes without the full sit-down hibachi experience. Diners can choose from a variety of proteins, including chicken, steak, and shrimp served with fried rice and vegetables.

For those who enjoy sushi, the restaurant offers a selection of classic rolls, sashimi, and specialty rolls.

“We wanted to have something for everyone,” Williams explained.

A Great Deal for Everyone

The restaurant’s lunch special is a standout deal for anyone looking for quality food at an affordable price. Running daily from 10:30 AM to 3 PM, this special includes a generous serving size, complete with a drink, all for about $10 after tax. Unlike many places that charge extra for sides and drinks, Hibachi Express & Ramen keeps it simple and budget-friendly without compromising on quality. “You get a pretty good serving, honestly; I always have leftovers,” Williams said. “And it’s only about $10 after tax, including a drink. Most places will charge extra for a drink or sides, but ours is all included. It’s affordable and still high quality"

So far, the response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive. “We haven’t even been open that long, and people have been so welcoming,” Williams said.

With its combination of quick service, quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere, Hibachi Express & Ramen is quickly establishing itself as a must-visit spot in Statesboro. Whether you’re craving a hearty bowl of ramen, a sizzling hibachi meal, or a refreshing boba tea, this new eatery has something for everyone.

About Hibachi Express & Ramen

"Welcome to Hibachi Express & Ramen, where we craft delicious dishes with the freshest ingredients, blending tradition and creativity. Our mission is to provide a warm, inviting atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy great food with friends and family. Every meal is prepared with care and passion, ensuring a delightful dining experience. We take pride in our exceptional service and attention to detail. Thank you for choosing Hibachi Express & Ramen —we look forward to serving you!"

Store Location: 309 Tormenta Way Ste C3, Statesboro, GA 30458 Phone: 912-259-9918

Opening Hours:

See the Hibachi Express and Ramen menu here.

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Listen to this article 00:05:31

Residents of The Vault apartment complex, located at 1699 Statesboro Place Circle, are being forced to vacate their homes by Friday due to significant structural deterioration, leaving many scrambling for alternative housing.

The urgent situation arose after a private structural inspection conducted by Thomas & Reel Engineering Consultants on behalf of a third party.

According to Layne Phillips, City of Statesboro Public Affairs Manager, the engineering firm concluded that all buildings at The Vault were dangerous and exhibited considerable structural issues.

In a letter dated April 3, 2025, Thomas & Reel informed the City of Statesboro of their findings. The letter detailed visible signs of deferred maintenance and significant deterioration of wood trim due to moisture intrusion across buildings 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, and the office. The inspection also revealed erosion at the foundations, exposing the footings.

Of particular concern were the elevated walkways, seemingly constructed with concrete over deteriorating wood framing. The report stated that all apartment buildings showed similar structural damage to porches and stairway systems, deeming them unsafe and requiring immediate evacuation. The bases of the wood columns supporting the front and rear porches of the office/clubhouse were also found to be deteriorated and unsafe. The engineering firm recommended further investigation involving opening up suspect structural elements.

In response to this report, Robbie Jordan, the City's Chief Building Official, issued a formal notice to The Vault management on April 4th. The hand-delivered letter, signed by Madison Harwood of The Vault, gave the management 10 business days to provide a plan to ensure the property is deemed safe by a structural engineer and that emergency ingress and egress meet City Code.

Jordan's letter referenced the attached findings from Thomas & Reel, highlighting the dangerous conditions posing a threat to the life, health, property, and safety of the occupants. The letter indicated that unless the buildings are deemed safe and brought up to code, the city intends to proceed with emergency measures under the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), specifically requiring immediate evacuation. Relevant provisions of the IPMC, adopted by the City of Statesboro, were included.

Phillips clarified that the City is not condemning the buildings but rather requiring them to meet habitable standards outlined in the city's property maintenance code. The Vault management has until the response deadline to submit a plan of action for compliance. Alternatively, if a structural engineer determines repairs are necessary, proper plans and permits will be required.

However, The Vault's property management has already distributed the City's letter to tenants and is verbally informing them that their leases will be terminated, and April rent will be refunded. Residents are being told they must vacate their apartments by Friday, April 11, 2025.

With an average rent of around $430 per room, tenants are now facing uncertainty regarding relocation and support despite the promised rent refund.

Grice Connect has not been able to get a clear number of how many residents are currently living in the complex. At full capacity there are 528 beds in the complex.

This is not the first instance of structural concerns at The Vault. On September 18, 2024, the City of Statesboro issued a similar letter of concern regarding building 1100. Chief Building Official Robbie Jordan gave the complex 30 days to rectify structural issues in that building. Just six days later, on September 24, 2024, residents of building 1100 were informed that their building had been condemned and were given 30 days to vacate. Building 1100 remains boarded up and vacant.

Constructed in 1999, The Vault at Statesboro comprises 14 buildings with 132 units, primarily four-bedroom/four-bath layouts, totaling 190,608 square feet. According to Bulloch County Tax Assessor records, the complex is owned by Statesboro United LLC, with addresses in Lawrenceville, GA, and Hollywood, FL.

Statesboro City Council, at the Tuesday, May 7, 2024 bi-monthly meeting, put The Vault apartment complex on notice. This area of Statesboro, which is near Paulson Stadium, has become highlighted for recent violent crimes, including an officer involved shooting.

Charles Penny, City Manager, reported at the council meeting that at the direction of the Mayor and City Council, he had asked Cain Smith, City Attorney, to send a letter to the owners of The Vault apartment complex putting them on notice. The letter encouraged them to take advantage of the city's grants to help apartment complexes to improve security. They are also encouraging them to improve overall security at the complex.

Grice Connect has reached out to The Vault management for comment on the plan to vacate all residents but has received no response. This is an ongoing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

A crisis is unfolding in Statesboro, Georgia, as hundreds of residents at The Vault apartment complex are being forced to vacate their homes by Friday, with limited explanation and support from management.

Listen to this article 00:07:49

Hundreds of residents at The Vault apartment complex, located at 1699 Stateboro Place Circle in Statesboro, GA, are grappling with shock and uncertainty after receiving notices Monday demanding they vacate their homes by this Friday, April 11, 2025. The abrupt demand, delivered via letters left on doors, has left many financially strained – having just paid April rent – and confused by conflicting messages from property management and the City of Statesboro.

Residents report their primary worry is financial, questioning how quickly they'll receive refunds from The Vault and struggling to find funds for new deposits and rent on such short notice. Compounding their anxiety is the discrepancy between The Vault's notice, which reportedly blames the City for ordering the vacate due to structural issues, and the City's official stance.

Layne Phillips, City Public Affairs Manager, reiterated Tuesday that the City has not ordered immediate evictions. Instead, the City issued a notice giving The Vault 10 days to present a plan to address structural concerns at the property. Phillips stated the City has no plans to enforce evictions on Friday and is solely expecting the remediation plan from the complex management.

The letter from The Vault management, however, inaccurately claimed the City mandated the immediate move-out and provided no further guidance beyond requesting a forwarding address.

For residents who may not vacate by Friday, Bulloch County Chief Magistrate Judge Karen Jones explained the legal eviction process. After the initial notification to vacate, which residents received on April 7, 2025, The Vault would then need to file a formal eviction. Tenants would then be served official notice and given seven additional days to either leave or request a court hearing. Judge Jones emphasized she cannot provide legal advice but directs residents needing assistance to contact an attorney. If they cannot afford an attorney they can request free legal services from Georgia Legal Services Program at 833-457-7529.

In response to the unfolding crisis, the Statesboro community is mobilizing. Georgia Southern University's Dean of Students Office and University Housing are assisting affected students. Nearby apartment complexes, Copper Beech and Cambridge, report having available units and are facilitating immediate move-ins for displaced Vault residents. Social service organizations like The Union Mission (potential rent aid), Open Hearts Community Mission (shelter beds), Christian Social Ministries (food), and Esther's Place (showers/laundry) are also offering various forms of support.

On the door of the office are two handwritten signs advising residents to email with any questions or complaints. Citizens or residents who would like to reach out to The Vault directly with a question or complaint can email them at:

thevault@hometpg.com (Corporte Office)

jodie@hometpg.com (Regional Property Manager)

Georgia Southern University students: Jennifer Wise, Director of University Communications told Grice Connect that the Dean of Students Office is available to assist with Georgia Southern students who may be impacted by housing issues at the Vault. The Dean of Students Office can also assist students with faculty notifications and other support resources. Georgia Southern’s University Housing Office is available to work with students who are looking for a place to live on campus for the remainder of the semester. Any students not wishing to live in on-campus housing, should still contact the Dean of Students Office for assistance.

Apartments available:Copper Beech apartments have shared with Grice Connect that they have capacity for 400-500 and Cambridge can handle less than 100. They are priced competitively with The Vault and are allowing immediate move in as soon as they complete their screenings. Here is the link to begin the process. They have had 60 tenants of the Vault reach out as of 4 pm on Tuesday.

Housing and rent assistance: The Union Missionis prepared to help displaced families with income to find housing and possibly provide rent assistance for the first few months. Interested families must apply in person at their Statesboro office (515 Denmark Street, Suite 1000) and provide proof of displacement and proof of income. Through their Rapid Rehousing Program, they will pay your deposit and half of your first three months rent. You must bring the letter from The Vault and met their financial requirements. For more questions call them at 912-238-2777 extension 1801 or 1800.

Homeless shelter: Open Hearts Community Mission, currently has one family room available, along with ten available beds for women and seven available beds for men. They do not accommodate couples. Interested families will need to call 912-623-2528. They prefer a phone call to appearing in person. The intake process takes about 30 minutes: a required background check via the Statesboro PD takes only about two minutes, and the application form is only one page.

FREE Medical and Mental Health: Statesboro Pediatrics and Family Healthcare Center, 1570 Brampton Avenue, Statesboro, GA is offering free medical and mental health care to any resident of the Vault for the month of April. Call 912-764-9196 to make an appointment. You will need to tell them you are a resident of The Vault and bring the letter to vacate from The Vault and proof that you are a resident of The Vault.

Veterans rehousing assistance: On Thursday, April 10th starting at 9:30 am the American Legion Post 90 is hosting the VA Supportive Services for Veterans Families Program (VA SSVF) program coordinators from both Augusta and Savannah at American Legion Post 90, 100 Rucker Lane to assist Veterans from The Vault Apartments with rehousing.

Food: The Statesboro Food Bank can provide meal bags for anyone facing economic stress over this unfortunate and disruptive transition. We are here for anyone in need. We also have volunteers who can deliver to specific addresses. We try to "batch" delivery to save volunteer time and gas but always respond as quickly as possible when needed even if a repeat visit to the same complex. If you need food call Sheila Leach, Executive Director at 912-707-2787.

Food and other resources: Christian Social Ministries is available to provide resources including food. John Long, Executive Director can be reached at 912-512-0107.

Showers and Laundry: Esther's Place is offering showers and laundry assistance.

Monetary Donations: Bulloch VOAD and Bulloch Strong are accepting monetary contributions to assist agencies providing direct assistance to impacted individuals at The Vault. Click Here to give online or mail checks made payable to Bulloch Strong, C/O Pittman Park Church, 1102 Fair Road, Statesboro, GA 30458.