Totally get why the reviews for Harumi are SO mixed.
First visit (pre-covid): Meh sushi. And, our server was kinda rude and acted like he didn't want to be there. He spilled beer on our table and walked away. And, he seemed annoyed when I asked for napkins to wipe the beer off.
He's loooong gone though. Hopefully, he's doing what he loves now...like joined a K-pop band because his BTS vibe was 100% on-point.
Anyways, I'm glad I gave Harumi a second chance (out of convenience) because they've become my go-to for bento boxes when I'm in Cupertino.
Harumi is open for takeout, delivery, indoor dining, and outdoor dining (dog-friendly).
With the mandate listed, staff still wears masks.
M E N U
Japanese staples: Apps, salads, sashimi, maki rolls, nigiri, teriyaki, ramen, udon, donburi, bento boxes, etc. Beer and sake available.
F O O D
Not a fan of the sushi here; the fish quality is not great and the sushi rice is not proper both in seasoning and texture. BUT, what I do recommend are their hot foods - it always hits the spot!
* Complimentary Edamame
It's ok. Some pieces are usually overcooked but hey, it's free.
* BBQ Ribs aka Galbi (App, 6 pc - $13.95): https://bit.ly/3Bhb2Zd
The Galbi is BOMB! You get two LA cut Galbi that's rich, tender and savory sweet with a great charred flavor. On par, and IMO...even better than some KBBQ places in the area (Harumi is Korean-owned).
* Sake Kama: Grilled Salmon Collar ($9.95)
***Allow 15-20 minutes to prepare.
Sorry no pic but you get a huge grilled salmon fish collar with crispy skin, and moist+flaky flesh. Served with a side of tangy soy for dipping.
* Hamachi Kama: Grilled Yellowtail Collar ($14.95)
***Allow 15-20 minutes to prepare.
Sorry no pic but you also get a huge grilled yellowtail fish collar with crispy skin, and moist+flaky flesh. Served with a side of tangy soy for dipping. I like the hamachi more than the sake.
* Bento Box: Beef Teriyaki, Tempura, Choice of Sashimi w/ rice, salad, and miso soup ($20.95): https://bit.ly/3Bhb2Zd
The price has slightly increased over the years but still a good value with shrinkflation going on. This is my go-to order and it never disappoints.
-- Miso Soup: Poured from a dispenser. It's too salty for me so I usually give it to my hypertension-loving dining companion.
-- Salad: Fresh, crisp garden salad with a deliciously zesty ginger-carrot dressing.
-- Beef Teriyaki: When I started ordering this, the beef teriyaki used to be a fattier cut and tasted like galbi. They now use a leaner cut and a more teriyaki tasting sauce. Since they now use a lean cut, it's not as tender but still pretty good with a charred flavor.
-- Tempura (shrimp, onion, broccoli, sweet potato, zucchini and green bean): Hot and crunchy, batter is not too heavy.
-- Sashimi (choice of maguro, hamachi, or sake): I always get the sake sashimi. Not the best quality but you get three thick cuts and it hits the raw craving.
-- Rice: Properly cooked and slightly sticky.
-- Orange: Two sweet+juicy slices for dessert.
S E R V I C E
Most of the ladies here are really nice with the same staff since pre-covid times (except dude who's no longer there). They get busy and have a high volume of takeout orders so don't expect attentive service or check-ins.
Food service is prompt unless you do during peak times.
A M B I A N C E
Old-skool, hole-in-the-wall with a small dining room and sushi bar. There's three large wooden tables outside (covered+shaded and each table sits ~6 people) where we always sit at...rain or shine.
P A R K I N G
Easy parking in the plaza.
Overall, solid Japanese cooked foods that hits the spot! Also, conveniently located so you can hit up La Patisserie, Yogurtland, Hui Lau Shan, or Beard Papa's afterwards for dessert. Or, go broque next door shopping the snack aisles at Marukai. =T read more