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September 2024 by Kenny Spaar
My wife and I love coming here for a Thursday Izakaya (think Japanese Tapas) night or for an afternoon drink(s) on the weekend. They also host omakase night twice a week which is reservation only.
If you’ve never had sake before or have only had it at cheap happy hours, there is no better place to try it out. Yuka will walk you through things and make a sake lover out of you. If you have a friend who isn’t interested, bring them anyway and have them get a beer or shochu highball!
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August 2024 by Daniel Kim
Hanaka is a hidden gem and sake lovers should all flock to this place. Hanaka also has wonderful omakase and izakaya nights as well. The owner is wonderful and she will help describe the sake you are having so that you not only enjoy the spirit but also learn about sake. There are 3 unique experiences at Hanaka.
(1) First is the sake-tasting experience. These take place Sat and Sun only between 1pm and 5pm. No need for reservations. There are often more than 20 types of sakes to choose from and the options are refreshed every 1-2 months.
(2) Second is omakase and sake pairing. These are Thurs and Sat nights only with seating at 630pm. Reservations required. Head Chef Hiro is a genius! The flavors of the food he puts together are amazing. Well worth it. 3 sake pairings are part of the price and you can purchase additional sake to compliment the rest of the meal. Highly recommended! So Fun.
(3) Izakaya night happens every Wednesday evening starting at 6 pm I believe. No reservations just walk in. Sometimes it is super busy, but other times, not so much. The small bites, sake, and the people are always great!
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May 2024 by Ryan Keller
One of thr best Sushi and Sake Experiences of my life. Im an Orange County Foodie and this it 5 Star
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March 2024 by Naman Desai
This place is awesome! Yuka is very friendly and knowledgeable. She gives excellent recommendations based on your tastes if you are not sure what to try. We have been here for tastings and the omakase and both were unforgettable experiences that we do again soon.
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October 2023 by BK
If you're a sake enthusiast or just starting to explore this fascinating world, Hanaka is an absolute must-visit. The wide variety of sake they offer is truly impressive
What stands out at Hanaka is not just the sheer variety, but the curated quality of their selection. They have managed to gather an extensive range of sake, from popular household names to rare and unique finds. This dedication to providing diversity in choice speaks volumes about their commitment to delivering an authentic and enriching sake experience.
The tasting bar is another exceptional feature of Hanaka. It's not just a place to sample different sakes, but it's an interactive and educational journey that provides insights into the intricate world of sake. The staff is knowledgeable, passionate, and more than happy to guide you through the tasting process.
Hanaka offers a compelling and immersive sake experience that is hard to find elsewhere. With their wide array of sake and intriguing tasting bar, they have created an inviting space for both novices and seasoned sake enthusiasts. Highly recommended!
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August 2023 by Ercenk Keresteci
Great selection of sakes, they change it every month. Owned by and extremely knowledgeable Yuka. It is a must visit place and a great gem in the area. I will be back many times.Please support the local businesses :)
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July 2023 by David A.
Our first sale tasting experience. So wonderful, yuka, owner and server, so knowledgeable and gracious. Recommend this location to everyone.
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June 2023 by Kenny S.
A great place to pick up a wide range of sake. The owner is very friendly and loves to help you find a sake you'll love. There is a bar in the bake with sake flights, beer and small bites on the weekend.
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June 2023 by Ric
If you're a sake enthusiast or just starting to explore this fascinating world, Hanaka is an absolute must-visit. The wide variety of sake they offer is truly impressiveWhat stands out at Hanaka is not just the sheer variety, but the curated quality of their selection. They have managed to gather an extensive range of sake, from popular household names to rare and unique finds. This dedication to providing diversity in choice speaks volumes about their commitment to delivering an authentic and enriching sake experience.The tasting bar is another exceptional feature of Hanaka. It's not just a place to sample different sakes, but it's an interactive and educational journey that provides insights into the intricate world of sake. The staff is knowledgeable, passionate, and more than happy to guide you through the tasting process.Hanaka offers a compelling and immersive sake experience that is hard to find elsewhere. With their wide array of sake and intriguing tasting bar, they have created an inviting space for both novices and seasoned sake enthusiasts. Highly recommended!
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June 2023 by Ten E.
If you're a sake enthusiast or just starting to explore this fascinating world, Hanaka is an absolute must-visit. The wide variety of sake they offer is truly impressiveWhat stands out at Hanaka is not just the sheer variety, but the curated quality of their selection. They have managed to gather an extensive range of sake, from popular household names to rare and unique finds. This dedication to providing diversity in choice speaks volumes about their commitment to delivering an authentic and enriching sake experience.The tasting bar is another exceptional feature of Hanaka. It's not just a place to sample different sakes, but it's an interactive and educational journey that provides insights into the intricate world of sake. The staff is knowledgeable, passionate, and more than happy to guide you through the tasting process.Hanaka offers a compelling and immersive sake experience that is hard to find elsewhere. With their wide array of sake and intriguing tasting bar, they have created an inviting space for both novices and seasoned sake enthusiasts. Highly recommended!
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June 2023 by andy chien
Great sake shop, owner is very nice. She can help searching for items too.
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June 2023 by Chuntse C.
Owner is very friendly, she helped me to do special orders and keep the communication updates. Great selections of sake and Japanese wines.
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April 2023 by Jesse Standlea
This place is a gem. It’s very authentic which can be difficult to come by in south Orange County. The service here is heart felt. Hanaka is a truly unique place.
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January 2023 by Anna C.
Fun little spot for sake tasting! There's also a wide selection of items for sale. The sake sets are really pretty and the price range for Sake bottles is very reasonable. I've been here 3 times now, and have enjoyed every visit. This place is definitely a hidden gem, great for solo drinks, a date, or just a small hangout with friends and family. Each month, the menu list changes :) which is great for someone like me that likes variety.
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October 2022 by Krist S.
South OC's hidden gem uncovered! We stumbled upon this place waiting for our pizza from the same plaza (Brooklyn where you at?!) We were actually walking towards the Greek market and noticed SAKE TASTING. Let's just say we never made it to the market. This place has a wide selection of sake and a very knowledgeable owner who is more than willing to help with suggestions and drop some knowledge when it comes to sake. Hoping to normalize sake drinking and make it less confusing when deciding what to select, Hanaka brings a great selection and great atmosphere. The back of the retail store has a tasting room which has some food selections and sushi on the weekends. We will definitely be back to try different bottles and just chop it up with the owner. Support small business!
