Hanabi Japanese Restaurant, Castroville CA

This review is based on my experience at this restaurant a few months ago. I was shopping at the market in the same complex and spotted this restaurant. Being someone who is part Japanese I decided to try this Japanese restaurant. Well to my dismay that proved to be a mistake. First off the customer service was friendly but not attentive. After placing my order it took nearly an hour to receive my food. The Teriyaki was horrible and extremely dry and the Sushi was made with old ingredients and just wasn’t edible. The Tempura was made with a strange batter that was unlike anything I have ever had in any Japanese restaurants.
I learned afterwards that this restaurant is a Hispanic restaurant and not Japanese and I would suggest that they stick to their own cuisine and serve tortillas, salsa and beans. They definitely can’t cook Japanese food.

The Chicken Teriyaki (with tempura and gyoza) was great - everything was a hit! The chicken was tender and delicious. The tempura was well made and the gyoza was crispy. The tempura udon was also very good. The portion sizes were perfect too. Service was ok at the beginning, but improved throughout the night, and they were very nice and friendly. Value was amazing too, $40 for two people! Highly recommend, will stop by next time.

Best sushi restaurant in the central coast. Francisco takes care of his customers 100% very friendly and welcoming

This place was amazing! The quality of the food and the presentation of the food was superb. The menu has a great selection and the fish was extremely fresh. My mother is from Japan was was a great cook; I know good authentic Japanese food and would highly recommend this place. Prices are very reasonable for the high quality of food you are getting and the service was also great. There were six of us, and we all thoroughly enjoyed our dinners. Loved the casual, modest environment. They also do take out.

Pancho is the best sushi chef in Monterey County & The Monterey Peninsula! He's been our chef for over 15 years
We try other chefs but we always come back

The name has traveled with some bad reviews but do not let that steer you away. As of today this place has saved me travel of going to Salinas.
I ordered the Cadillac roll & Hanabi roll.
So much flavor packed in these rolls! Definitely going back!
It got a nice little remodel and upgrade. Check them out!

Definitely recommend. Since new owner has come in fresh fish, fresh new look, clean wonderful environment. Will definitely be back.

Awesome! Francisico is back in the saddle again this time here at Hanabi. Had great lunch specials and enjoyed some of the house specalities. Will definately be back.

Spread the word that Hanabi is back! The best sushi in this area and, I also consider, the Peninsula and beyond. Amazing service and family atmosphere and the sushi is fresh and plentiful - so glad to be back to our go-to spot.