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Welcome to Hanabi Japanese Restaurant

Nestled in Castroville, California, Hanabi Japanese Restaurant offers a delightful culinary journey inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine. Renowned for its fresh sushi and vibrant flavors, the restaurant is a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike. The owner and sushi chef, Pancho, has garnered a loyal following, with patrons praising the exceptional quality of dishes like the Cadillac roll. With options for taking reservations, outdoor seating, and accommodating families, Hanabi creates a welcoming atmosphere for all. The attentive service, combined with a diverse menu featuring tempura and udon, ensures every visit is a memorable experience worth savoring.

Hanabi Japanese Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

J P.
J P.

It would not be overstating it to say this could be one of the best sushi restaurants in California. Seriously.

Steve S.
Steve S.

Outstanding, well executed food, backed up with super service. Definitely worth the drive from Gilroy. A new go to for the family. ****

Valeria R.
Valeria R.

Have been following pancho (owner & sushi chef) for years and he's the best!!! Rolls are fresh and super flavorful!! My all time favorite sushi restaurant. All servers are really nice and attentive over all 10/10 everytime!

Leslie M.
Leslie M.

Love this place ! Always get it when craving sushi, the Cadillac roll is my favorite soo delicious! Definitely recommend this place it's a hidden gem

Rachel O.
Rachel O.

Loveeee hanabi! We have been following pancho and his amazing sushi since 2012 ish. My daughters and myself love coming in to see the beautiful art work . Yummy food and great service 10/10 reccomend !

Carlos J.
Carlos J.

We love this little place! The guy at the sushi bar (I assume he's the owner) is a very nice person and makes delicious sushi. The service is good and you feel comfortable in this place. I recommend it.

Chad P.
Chad P.

Just had lunch there with my lovely wife . First time eating here .Very clean place , service was great and the food was so fresh and tasty . Will be back again soon

briana m.
briana m.

The BEST sushi spot i've ever tried and ive been to multiple locations. I come here every other weekend, the location is small but the food is undefeated. The food is super fresh, delicious, and overall the best i've had. My boyfriend and I discovered this place and now we don't get sushi anywhere else. We love to get two rolls and some nigiri. Our favorites were the red roll, lemon roll, and pancho roll!

Jem M.
Jem M.

Service is what gives this place 5 stars. Our server was Jeanette and she was so friendly and prompt. Whatever you need, she's got it lol. She was serving a table next to us and I made a comment to the person I was eating with about needing a straw and she turned around and handed it to me. I would give this place a try and if you do go, I hope your server is Jeanette!

Shirleen D.
Shirleen D.

First time at this cute gem. A little small sushi spot. Loved how homey and inviting this place is. Appetizers were really good. We got the soft shell crab and jalapeño poppers. My favorite had to be the soft shell crab 10/10 We ordered two rolls : Carlos roll & flaming roll. Left satisfied. Would definitely come back to try other rolls!

Location

Welcome to Hanabi Japanese Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Castroville, California. Here, the art of sushi-making transcends the ordinary, delivering an experience that truly tantalizes the palate. Famous for its vibrant dishes and welcoming atmosphere, Hanabi has earned a reputation as one of the finest sushi spots in the Golden State.

Located at 11276 Merritt St, Castroville, CA 95012, Hanabi is the perfect destination for lunch, dinner, or a casual outing with friends and family. Whether you’re craving the rich flavors of fresh sushi or delectable hot appetizers, the menu is expertly curated to cater to diverse tastes. Popular starter choices include the Spicy Edamame and Vegetable Tempura, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.

  • Signature Dishes:
    • Cadillac Roll: A favorite among regulars, known for its fresh and bold flavors.
    • Gyoza: These delightful pork dumplings are a must-try, perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor.
    • Salmon Kama: Grilled salmon cheekbone that melts in your mouth, paired with rice and soup for a wholesome meal.

Hanabi's sushi selection is stellar, featuring fresh offerings like Hamachi and Tamago that showcase the chefs' commitment to quality. Customers rave about the well-executed dishes and attentive service provided by the friendly staff, ensuring each visit is a delightful experience. Truly, Steve S. and Rachel O. have articulated what many feel: that it's not just a meal, but a memorable gathering place for family and friends.

The restaurant’s casual dress code and inviting ambiance make it accessible for everyone, from families with children to groups looking for a laid-back dining experience. With outdoor seating available, guests can enjoy their meal al fresco while taking in the surroundings. An added bonus? Hanabi offers delivery and takeout options, allowing you to relish their flavors at home.

In addition to their exceptional culinary offerings, the restaurant features a range of utilitarian amenities. From accommodating reservations to accepting multiple payment methods like credit cards and Apple Pay, it prioritizes customer convenience. Plus, with a kid-friendly menu and options for those with dietary restrictions, there's something for everyone.

As you navigate the Japanese culinary landscape, let Hanabi Japanese Restaurant be your guiding star. With its commitment to freshness, flavor, and a welcoming environment, each visit feels like a celebration of all things sushi. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Hanabi; it might just become your new favorite sushi spot.

For reservations or inquiries, give them a call at (831) 633-4262. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that will leave you longing for more.