Hapa Izakaya Coal Harbour to replace Hapa Umi restaurant

In March 2011, Hapa Izakaya owners Lea and Justin Ault opened Hapa Umi at 909 West Cordova Street; however a year later, they are closing the restaurant in favour of opening a fourth Hapa Izakaya location.

While both Hapa restaurants serve Japanese cuisine, Hapa Umi’s dishes are more upscale and include fusion elements. Hapa Izakaya, however, serves tapas-style dishes, including sashimi, hot items like soy-marinated grilled squid and gyozas, and rice and noodle bowls.

Hapa Izakaya Coal Harbour executive chef Nobu Watanabe will offer the same menu as other Hapa Izakaya locations; however, the fresh sheets and omakase offerings vary at each restaurant. In addition, the Coal Harbour location will be open for lunch, and diners can expect to see items, such as edamame ravioli, tempura oysters, and short rib lettuce wraps, on the menu priced between $8 and $12.

The new Hapa Izakaya Coal Harbour will feature 150 seats, including a bar, lounge, and private dining room. During warmer months, guests will also be able to dine on the 50-seat patio.

Hapa Umi will close following dinner service on Saturday (March 3). Hapa Izakaya Coal Harbour will open for dinner on March 7, with lunch service starting March 12.

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