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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeMichiganOakland CountyNoviJapanese Restaurant in Grand River AvenueHotaru
Hotaru ico

Hotaru

39723 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375, USA

4.0
Cozy little place for great ramen and other Asian dishes. They have an awesome crunchy chicken dish, great broths, an assortment of noodle bowls to be discovered. The staff is very friendly and the cooks are top notch and get the job done perfectly every time we visit. If it is a rainy day then come get a bowl of hot delicious noodles. Definitely a great place to go when you want some hearty broth and piping hot noodles. - Randall Kuna
Hotaru Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Hotaru Introduce

For Michigan locals seeking a warm, comforting, and incredibly satisfying meal, Hotaru in Novi is a destination well worth discovering. While it might not fit every traditional Japanese stereotype, this cozy establishment has carved out a unique niche, specializing in hearty ramen bowls and other Asian-inspired dishes that are packed with flavor and served with a friendly smile. Hotaru is the perfect antidote to a chilly Michigan day or simply when you're craving a substantial and delicious meal that offers great value.

What sets Hotaru apart is its focus on delicious broths, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit a pleasant one. It’s a place where you can find familiar favorites and perhaps discover new ones, all prepared by a dedicated team that aims to get your order "perfectly every time." If you're in the Novi area and looking for a filling and affordable Asian meal, Hotaru should definitely be on your list.

Location and Accessibility

Hotaru is conveniently located at 39723 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375, USA. This address places it directly on Grand River Avenue, a major road in Novi, making it highly accessible for residents throughout Michigan, particularly those in Novi, Farmington Hills, South Lyon, and the wider Metro Detroit area. Its location ensures that it's easy to find, whether you're coming from work, running errands, or planning a dedicated trip for their popular ramen.

Being on a main thoroughfare, Hotaru benefits from good visibility and typically offers convenient parking options for its customers. This ease of access contributes significantly to its appeal as a go-to spot for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, allowing locals to enjoy their hearty dishes without hassle.

Services Offered

Hotaru focuses on providing a friendly and efficient service model to deliver its comforting Asian dishes.

  • Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in their "cozy little place." The intimate setting fosters a warm vibe, perfect for casual dining.
  • Takeout/Carryout: For those who prefer to enjoy their food at home, Hotaru offers convenient takeout services. Their dishes are prepared to maintain quality for enjoyment off-premise.
  • Delivery Service: Hotaru partners with popular food delivery platforms like DoorDash, making it easy to have their delicious ramen and other dishes delivered right to your doorstep.
  • Wide Variety of Noodle Bowls: While ramen is a highlight, they offer an assortment of noodle bowls, allowing for diverse culinary exploration.
  • Assortment of Asian Dishes: Beyond ramen, their menu includes other Asian dishes, such as their popular crunchy chicken and Pork Katsu with Demiglace sauce, ensuring a broader appeal. They also offer sushi, nigiri, and tempura rolls.
  • Lunch and Dinner Service: Hotaru is open for both lunch and dinner, typically from 11 AM to 2:30 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM on weekdays and weekends, with Tuesdays often being closed.
  • Payment Options: They accept Apple Pay, Android Pay, and major Credit Cards for convenient payment.
  • Wheelchair Accessible: The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.
Features / Highlights

Hotaru has earned a loyal following in Michigan by consistently delivering on several key aspects that make it a favorite among its patrons.

  • Great Ramen and Hearty Broths: Customers consistently praise the ramen, noting "great broths" and "piping hot noodles." It's described as a "great place to go when you want some hearty broth," making it perfect for colder days. One review mentions "Probably the best bowl of ramen I've had in Michigan. The shoyu broth was perfectly balanced. The ramen noodles were cooked to the perfect texture (slightly al dente/QQ)."
  • Awesome Crunchy Chicken Dish: This specific dish is highlighted as a standout, indicating a unique and highly enjoyable menu item beyond their signature ramen.
  • Generous Portions: A recurring theme in reviews is the "mountain of food for your money" and that portions are "huge!" This means you definitely "won't leave hungry" and get excellent value.
  • Affordable Pricing: Hotaru is noted for being "cheap," offering a filling meal that "won't empty your wallet," which is a significant draw for many diners.
  • Friendly and Attentive Staff: The service consistently receives high marks, with staff described as "very friendly," "hustling," and getting the "job done perfectly every time." This positive interaction enhances the dining experience.
  • Cozy Atmosphere: The restaurant provides a "cozy little place" ambiance, which contributes to a warm and inviting dining environment.
  • Korean Vibe/Inspired Dishes: While categorized as Japanese, some reviewers note a "Korean vibe going on" in their dishes, which can be an exciting feature for those who appreciate fusion flavors.
  • Pork Katsu with Demiglace Sauce: This dish is specifically called out as sounding "like a winner" and "worth checking out," suggesting it's another highly regarded cooked item on their menu.
Promotions or Special Offers

Based on the provided information and public data, Hotaru offers value through its generous portion sizes and affordable pricing, which many customers already consider a significant "special offer."

  • Lunch Specials: While not explicitly detailed, their menu on some platforms indicates "Hearty Lunch Offerings" and "Lunch Specials" that deliver "exceptional value and unforgettable taste." It's worth inquiring about these for a midday meal.
  • Happy Hour Specials: Some external listings suggest that Hotaru may offer happy hour specials and alcohol options. It's best to check directly with the restaurant for current details.

For the most current information on any daily specials, seasonal menu items, or specific promotions, Michigan locals are encouraged to:

  • Check their Official Website or Social Media: Many restaurants update their latest offers and news on their online platforms.
  • Call Directly: Contacting Hotaru by phone is the best way to inquire about any current specials before your visit.
Contact Information

Ready to dive into a hearty bowl of ramen or try their famous crunchy chicken? Here’s how you can get in touch with Hotaru:

Address: 39723 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375, USA
Phone: (248) 442-7788
Mobile Phone: +1 248-442-7788

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Hotaru is an excellent choice for Michigan locals, particularly those in Novi and the surrounding areas, who are looking for a satisfying, affordable, and welcoming Japanese restaurant experience. Its suitability for the local community stems from several key strengths. The primary draw is undoubtedly their "great ramen" with "hearty broth," consistently praised for its flavor and comforting qualities, especially on a "rainy day." Beyond ramen, the availability of other appealing Asian dishes, like their "awesome crunchy chicken" and highly regarded Pork Katsu, ensures a diverse menu to satisfy various cravings.

What truly makes Hotaru a local favorite is the combination of "huge" and affordable portions with exceptionally "friendly staff" and "top notch" cooks. This blend of value, quality food, and warm hospitality creates a very positive dining environment that encourages repeat visits. While some may note it's not strictly traditional Japanese, its "Korean vibe" adds an interesting twist that many locals will appreciate. For Michiganders seeking a reliable spot for a filling meal that won't break the bank, where the staff treats you like family and the food consistently hits the spot, Hotaru in Novi is a highly recommended destination that promises a delicious and enjoyable experience every time.

Hotaru Photos

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Hotaru Location

Hotaru

39723 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375, USA

Hotaru Reviews

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