Get ready for a culinary adventure like no other! Hanami Japanese Cuisine has arrived in Merrick, and it's bringing a unique twist to the local dining scene.
Imagine a menu that boasts oyster udon, hamburger curry, and fluke fin sushi - dishes that are rarely seen on Long Island's Japanese restaurant scene. Hanami is here to change that, offering a fresh and exciting take on traditional Japanese cuisine.
But here's where it gets intriguing: this restaurant has a story that sets it apart. Co-owner Tina Shi, born in China's Fujian province, found her culinary passion in Japan. As an international student, she immersed herself in Japan's vibrant food culture for over a decade, even working as a chef at a Tokyo izakaya (a lively Japanese pub).
Together with her husband, Chun Wang, they've brought a piece of Japan to Merrick. "We have a big family connection to Japan," Tina shares. "I may be here now, but my heart still craves Japan's delicious cuisine."
The restaurant's space is a work of art in itself. Previously occupied by Sushi Ko, Hanami has been transformed with stunning murals of Japanese cherry blossoms, a nod to the season of Hanami, when these blossoms are in full bloom.
Chun Wang works his magic at the sushi bar, serving up rare delicacies like mirugai (giant clam) and shiro maguro (white tuna). Tina reveals that an impressive 90% of the restaurant's ingredients are imported directly from Japan, thanks to her cousin's Japanese markets in Manhattan.
One of the early favorites on the appetizer menu is asari ($11.95) - buttered, soy sauce-steamed Manila clams paired with juicy king mushrooms. It's a sweet and delicate dish that showcases the chef's skill.
Hanami also boasts an impressive selection of Japanese brown curries. The fried pork katsu curry ($17.50) is a hearty and satisfying choice, especially when paired with a crisp imported Hefeweizen beer ($7.99) from Ginga Kogen. Brewed in the snowy region at the foot of Mount Wagadake in North-Central Japan, this beer, with its bright blue can featuring a deer, offers subtle notes of banana and spices.
So, if you're in the mood for a culinary adventure, head over to Hanami Japanese Cuisine at 2063 Merrick Rd., Merrick. You can reach them at 516-318-9978 or visit their website at hanamimerrick.com. They're open from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Andi Berlin, our intrepid food explorer, is here to guide us through this delicious journey. She might be from Arizona, but her taste buds are leading her to the most exquisite culinary destinations, and we're along for the ride!
What's your take on this unique Japanese dining experience? Do you think it's a refreshing addition to the local food scene? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
