Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry

For those in California with a passion for authentic Japanese flavors, Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry in Burlingame offers a compelling destination. This charming, family-run restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to delivering deeply flavorful ramen and rich, comforting Japanese curry, providing a genuine taste of Japan right here in the Bay Area. Hanabi has quickly become a beloved spot for locals who appreciate generous portions, an inviting atmosphere, and a culinary experience that truly satisfies.

Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry stands out in Burlingame's diverse culinary scene for its dedication to quality and authenticity. Customers consistently praise the "absolutely delicious" ramen, noting its "flavourful" broth and ample portions. The emphasis on carefully crafted "tori paitan" (chicken-based milky white soup stock) as the foundation for their ramen dishes speaks to their commitment to traditional techniques and rich, savory bases. Beyond ramen, their Japanese curry, particularly the house-made Katsu options, receives high commendation for its enticing and hearty flavors.

What truly sets Hanabi apart is not just the food, but the overall experience. Despite being a smaller, cozy establishment with only 25 seats, it often sees happy diners filling its space, a testament to its popularity. The staff are noted for being "hospitable and kind," ensuring a welcoming and attentive service that makes every meal feel special. This friendly, family-run approach, combined with a diverse menu that caters to various dietary needs including vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian options, makes Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry a versatile and inclusive choice for any meal occasion.

Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry is conveniently located at 723 California Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA. This address places it just a few blocks from the bustling downtown area of Burlingame, a vibrant city in the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula. Its position on California Drive offers easy accessibility for both local residents and those traveling from surrounding communities. The restaurant is well-served by public transportation, being "right across from the Broadway Station" for Caltrain (on weekends) and having SamTrans bus stops nearby. For those driving, street parking is available along California Drive and Broadway Avenue, and a metered parking lot on Chula Vista Avenue. This excellent accessibility, combined with its slightly off-the-main-strip location, provides a comfortable dining experience without the heaviest downtown foot traffic, making it a convenient stop for a delicious meal.

The ambiance at Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry is described as "cozy" and "charming." While it's a smaller space with a limited number of seats, this contributes to an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed meal. The focus is on providing a comfortable setting where diners can fully immerse themselves in the authentic Japanese flavors. Despite its size, the restaurant is well-maintained and provides a pleasant environment for both lunch and dinner. There are even outdoor seating options available for those who prefer to dine al fresco, enhancing the versatility of the dining experience.

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy authentic ramen and Japanese curry in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
• Extensive Ramen Menu: Features various ramen types including Tokyo Tonkotsu (spicy and regular), Black Tonkotsu, Shoyu, Miso, Kara Miso, Shrimp, Seafood, Vegetable, Hanabi Tsukemen (cold/warm noodles with dipping soup), and Tomato Ramen.
• Japanese Curry Dishes: Offers classic Japanese curry rice with options like Pork Katsu Curry, Chicken Katsu Curry, Fried Shrimp Curry, and Vege Croquette Curry.
• Diverse Appetizer Menu: Includes popular small dishes such as Age Gyoza, Edamame (regular and spicy), Karikara Chicken, Takoyaki, Squid Leg Fry, Korokke, Shrimp Shumai, Chicken Karaage, Hanabi Wings, Agedashi Tofu, and Seaweed Salad.
• Donburi (Rice Bowl) Options: Offers a variety of rice bowls including Gyudon, Karaage Don, Ten Don, Chicken Curry Don, Karaage Curry Don, Fried Rice, Chashu Don, and Chicken Teriyaki Don.
• Sushi Rolls and Sashimi: Provides a selection of sushi rolls (e.g., California Roll) and sashimi.
• Lunch Specials: Features attractive lunch set menus combining mini ramen with a rice bowl and gyoza, or bento box lunches with a choice of main and side items.
• Vegan, Vegetarian, and Pescatarian Options: Caters to diverse dietary needs with dedicated dishes like Vegetarian Ramen and Vegetable Croquette Curry.
• Takeout: Available for pickup orders.
• Beverage Selection: Offers a range of soft drinks, house-brewed teas, Calpico, Ramune soda, and a selection of beer and wine.

• Authentic Japanese Experience: Praised for delivering genuine Japanese flavors in both ramen and curry dishes.
• Flavorful Ramen Broths: Known for rich and delicious broths, including a unique creamy chicken-based Tori Paitan.
• Generous Portions: Customers frequently highlight the "quite big" portions, ensuring a satisfying meal.
• Wide Variety of Ramen: Offers diverse ramen bases and toppings, including spicy options and unique combinations.
• Delicious Japanese Curry: The house-made curry, especially with Katsu, is a significant draw and highly recommended.
• Family-Run Restaurant: Provides a warm, hospitable, and attentive service experience.
• Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere: A charming, small eatery that offers a comfortable and relaxed dining environment.
• Accessibility Features: Offers accessible entrance and restrooms, outdoor and heated seating options, and ASL proficient staff.
• Good Value Lunch Sets: Bento sets and ramen/rice bowl combos provide a great value for lunch.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Most ramen bowls are available at any spice level, from no spice to extra spicy.

Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry offers specific pricing structures that can be considered value-driven, especially for locals. Their lunch sets are a significant highlight, providing excellent value by combining a mini ramen with a rice bowl and gyoza for a set price, or a bento box lunch which includes a main item, a side, miso soup, salad, and gyoza. These lunch specials are available Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. While the provided information does not detail ongoing daily or weekly promotions like happy hour or loyalty programs, their pricing structure for lunch and dinner, including varying rates for weekdays versus weekends/public holidays, offers consistent transparency and value. For example, a Tokyo Tonkotsu Ramen is around $14, with other ramen dishes ranging up to $17 for seafood options, and Japanese curry dishes typically around $18.49 for Katsu Curry. It is always recommended for locals to check their official website or inquire directly with the restaurant for any current or seasonal specials, which might include new menu items or limited-time offers. Given their family-run nature and focus on quality, any promotions would likely aim to showcase their authentic flavors and provide a fulfilling dining experience.

Address: 723 California Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA

Phone: (650) 342-8888

For California locals, particularly those in Burlingame and the surrounding Bay Area, Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended dining destination. Its commitment to offering "authentic Japanese experience" truly shines through in every bowl of ramen and plate of curry, making it a go-to spot for genuine flavors without needing to travel far.

The restaurant's strengths lie in its "flavourful ramen" with generous portions, and its delicious Japanese curry options like the Katsu Curry, which are both comforting and satisfying. The diverse menu caters to a wide range of preferences, including robust meat-based broths like Tori Paitan, a variety of spice levels, and thoughtful vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian options, ensuring there's something for everyone in the family or group. The appealing lunch sets offer fantastic value, making it an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying midday meal.

Beyond the food, Hanabi's "cozy atmosphere" and the "hospitable and kind" service from its family-run team create a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits. Its convenient location on California Drive, just off downtown Burlingame, with good accessibility and parking options, further enhances its appeal as a local favorite. For a truly tasty, authentic, and comfortable Japanese dining experience in the Bay Area, Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry is a strong contender that promises to leave you full and eager to return.

Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry

723 California Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA