Was visiting the San Diego area and had heard about this place from my relatives . So glad I got to buy various different flavors of mochi they have there! All were Fantastic in taste and softness!!! Some of the Best mochi I ever tasted!! read more

The service was good! The shop was smaller than I expected with a limited selection of mochi. The ambiance was nice, but the mochi did not impress me. Although the flavors were good, the consistency was not quite right. I am a mochi lover so take this review with a grain of salt. Check it out for yourself :) read more

Super nice people working in this store. I don't know much about mochi but there's a huge variety here and they are gooey (I assume that's fresh and good). Not too sweet some very interesting flavors. Love the expresso flavor. read more

Your go to spot for Japanese sweets and mochi/ manju in Chula Vista. Apparently, they sell their mochi to Mitsuwa in Kearny Mesa as well, so look for their sweet confections there. Expect to pay between $1.60 or $1.70 per mochi/ manju though. CASH ONLY too! Mrs. Takeda (as I will call her because she insisted I call her Okaasan instead), was immediately very welcoming when I entered into her small and quaint shop. Not only did she serve me well, she also came out to greet my dog in the car. She is a big time animal lover and will talk your ear off about the dogs in her life. Such an earnest conversationalist! This kind women runs this shop with her husband. They're simple, humble people with a great love for the desserts they produce and sell. Their ideals extend to their shop's appearance - it's very small and simple, but clean and to the point. Also, there's no indoor seating, so expect to take all your goodies to go. In addition to the manju and mochi in the display case, expect to find an assortment of Japanese snacks on the surrounding shelves. I'm sure you'd need to browse through these extensively before finding something you'd like. This little bakery has two main desserts on display. Here's what I could gather between the two: Mochi/ mochi manju - steamed rice cake with filling made with sticky rice. Typically translucent, gelatinous, and covered in a white powder. Baked manju - baked confections made with fillings. *Fillings usually are red/ white bean but sometimes a sweet egg yolk filling is used. You can never go wrong with the mochi, so those are always recommended. I personally prefer white bean to red as red bean could be a little too rich for me at times. The baked manju were also a treat. They were offered mostly in different nutty varietals (hazelnut, chestnut, etc.), but also had cinnamon and honey. I had one with a cinnamon bready outside and a sweet egg yolk core which was delicious. My only gripe would be for the lack of labeling on the display board. You don't really know what you're ordering unless you ask Mrs. Takeda which can get very repetitive and time consuming. There's just so many kinds of mochi/ manju to try here though, so it definitely warrants another visit. I'll be sure to stop by whenever I have a sweet tooth. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - My haul - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

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Last year, the lovely young lady that runs this place said they would be retiring in months and I was bummed that the business might go away completely along with them. Well, I happened to stop in today and found out they are training the new owners and their employees to create these wonderful tea cakes. They are by far the best mochis I've ever had. So soft and delicate, so much care is taken when crafting these little gems. The traditional red bean and mochi is my favorite, while the coconut flavored mochi is a very close second for me. Even though we now know the bakery will be here to stay, I would still hurry up and get your butt down there to meet the husband and wife team one time :). You won't regret it. read more

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First time I had mochi with red beans was from Mitsuwa. They sell them in packages and I believe the bakery is somewhere in LA. I used to buy 'em 4 for $4. Now they are 4 for $5. Sometimes I buy them and they are not fresh. How do I know? Because the red beans are a little hard and ctunchy. Not good. I was craving for mochi this morning and made my way to west Chula Vista. I was greeted by the couple and the man was very helpful. I really wanted to buy one of each mochi but I didn't want to be a heifer. I ended up picking up 8 pieces of different mochi with red or white beans. The total cost was about $10 and some change. These are FRESH mochi. Not the pre-packaged ones I get from MItsuwa. You can totally taste the freshness of the mochi when you bite into them. They kinda sorta sorta kinda melt in your mouth. And they are not to sweet so I could eat all 8 pieces but I won't. I need to be lady like. I will return when I come back to this side of Chula Vista. Great mochi with great prices! The couple are very sweet and no problem finding parking. Only thing is, I wish they would try making some mochi with peanut butter! Yum. read more

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Best mochi ever. I was amazed how delicious the mochi was. I've been eating mochi since I grew up in Hawaii and was blown away by how fresh this mochi was. I live 20 minutes away and it was worth the drive. I had a pleasant conversation with the owners who are a sweet elderly couple. If you take a genuine interest in their food, they are responsive. Making mochi requires a lot of patience and the owners are always standing. It's hard work and their efforts are appreciated. I contacted the San Diego Union Tribune and AAA Westways Magazine and I hope this bakery will be featured. read more

Best mochi! Don't be fooled by the locale & the spartan interior...This is a hidden gem and you won't find the quality of mochi anywhere in SD let alone SoCal. read more

Owner is very friendly & engaging. I'm a mochi novice but my husband loves it so I wanted to surprise him with some for Father's Day this year. The owner explained what was in each mochi that didn't have a label and which were customer favorites. I only gave 4 stars because I wished there were more of a selection and it's a cash only business. Definitely will share on social media & return. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Japanese Mochi dessert variety - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

super cute and tasty!!! such a variety of flavors and amazing service!!! would recommend 10/10!! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - mochi! - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

I'm so glad this place is still in business! During the pandemic they weren't making the decorative mochi, but now they're back at it. Stopped by on Saturday near closing time, but they still had a great selection. The woman who helped us was super friendly and we had a great experience. There's new management, but the mochi is just as we remember - amazing! Also, they accept credit cards and Apple Pay now. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Strawberry, french vanilla, green tea, grape, apricot and decorative mochi - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

This cute little mochi shop is family owned and is a little gem in heart of Chula Vista. The freshly made mochi is light and fluffy, melt-in- your-mouth tender and have a generous variety of delicate and delicious flavors! All that is offered with friendly and polite service, you cannot go wrong. Enjoy! read more

The Mochi here is unbelievable. We drove all the way down from escondido to try this place out and we weren't disappointed. The service was friendly and attentive but more importantly, the mochi was refreshing! I've never had mochi that tasted so juicy and luscious. I can't wait to come back! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

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A little mom and pop shop, and yes the owners are Japanese, and have originated from Japan. There was no one inside when we first entered, but shortly after an older man appeared and greeted us. We asked him what each item was, and he gladly took his time to tell us what each individual item was. Their display cases are filled with tons of mochis and bean filled tea cakes. Each one is individually colored or decorated. I absolutely love how some of the mochis resembled fruit or flower shapes. So instagram and photo worthy. They are less than $2 each, and are worth to try, because the mochi outer layer is super soft, tender, and slightly chewy, and inside, is a very generous portion of red or white bean filling. Slightly sweet. But definitely made with delicacy. They also carry shelves full of other asian snacks and goodies along their walls. My friend was going to Japan soon, and she wanted to ask them for recommendations for places to visit, and they had a very long conversation, and the older lady came out and threw in a few words here and there too. They are friendly people, just old, so have a little patience. read more

Absolutely loved the Mochi here! My personal favorite are those with White Bean. I used to come here when I was a kid back in 2013, and I just recently came back this year in 2021! Still delicious as ever! I'm glad they're still here even after COVID. The couple that runs this bakery are absolutely charming. Also reminded me to turn back the time for Day Light Savings! Affordable prices and reminds me of when I went to Japan! read more

The best Mochi place in Chula. i went here witj my son, he loves it so much. definitely gonna come back.

I love the mochi here; HOWEVER, the female owner is completely rude! I've come to the bakery several times and each time she helps me, she's completely rude to me, but polite to others. The gentlemen is nice and I preferred that he helps me instead. I try not to take it personal; just saddens me that she has to behave that way. It takes me over 30 mins to get to the bakery as it is and then to have to deal with a rude owner. I'll still recommend the mochi to others, just don't deal with her and ask to work with the gentlemen. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

This mochi shop is owned by an adorable Japanese couple. The husband came out to greet us, and he is so friendly and sweet! Everything is homemade and absolutely delicious! Prices are perfectly reasonable as the quality is ridiculous! I was only planning on buying a few, but walked away with 16 choices out of 21 options. Highly recommend! Please help them stay in business and hopefully they don't retire anytime soon so we can continue to enjoy authentic Japanese mochi read more

Hogetsu Bakery - So many choices! - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

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I am impressed with their mochi. I had a great conversation with the man and woman who run the place who are funny and have a very good energy about them. If you freeze their mochi to store for longer than a few days, put it in a ziploc bag to prevent it front getting dried out and frosted. I paid with Apple Pay as one does I am definitely coming back here again! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

The lady who was there was super sweet to me! When I entered the store, she came running out from the back just to greet me. I never felt so welcomed! She informed me about their selection of mochi and answered any questions that I had. She even gave me extra at no additional cost! As for their mochi, OMG! It's soooooooo good. It's fresh, flavorful, bouncy, and doesn't have that chemical taste from store-bought mochi. I'm never going to purchase store-bought mochi ever again. Just buy your mochi here! I'll definitely come back for more. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

I had heard about this bakery over the quarantine period and was dying to try it! I finally went today and OMG! The softest most authentic mochi I've ever had in my life! If I could buy the whole case I would! It's a small little hole in the wall bakery but I will definitely make the trip every time to enjoy their little delights, the staff was so kind and friendly, it has the mom and pop feel, they have a customer for life from me. Thank you so much! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Hazelnut, lemon, apricot and grape! Absolutely to die for! - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

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This place is so adorable and the owners are super sweet. They sell mochi that are unbelievably delicious! Lots of different flavors to choose from and very reasonably priced. I really liked the red bean filled mochi as it gives it good texture. All the mochi are super tasty and melt in your mouth soft. This place is CASH ONLY (checks too). Plenty of parking on a weekday morning/noon. During COVID, they're only allowing four people in the store/lobby at a time. Overall great place! Highly recommend coming here to pick up some great mochi for dessert. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Mochi - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Came here after seeing an article on FB. This place does not disappoint. While they don't have the pretty little designs because they've been busy, the mochi quality and taste is not lost. I got to speak with Haru Takeda (owner) for a bit because I came when it was slow. She was sweet and pleasant to talk to. I left with an assortment of flavors, but when I got in my car I chomped on a cappuccino mochi and it was so good. Texture was soft and smooth. Flavor was an explosion in my mouth like I was actually drinking cappuccino. I can't wait to try the other flavors. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Came to Hogetsu since we were in the area. Hogetsu is a quaint little shop in a little plaza surrounded by other Japanese stores/restaurants. Came inside and the owners were VERY nice, our group took awhile deciding because they have a big variety of very cute mochi, from more "Western" flavors like chocolate and French Vanilla, to more traditional ones such as green tea with red bean filling. The wife owner who was manning the counter struck up a conversation with us about her experiences with anti-Asian hate and racism, and talked to one of the members of our group about learning the Japanese language. While we were ordering, she brought her husband in from the back to help ring us up, and informed us that he's the one who makes the rice cakes. Both of them were very friendly, polite, and kind, and after we left we all agreed that we would come back just for them, because they were so nice. The rice cakes are pretty good, really enjoyed the flavors and not bad texture. The rice cakes melt in your mouth (unless you get the "chewy" one) and a good sweetness. And, as people say, "you eat with your eyes" too, and if that saying is true then they definitely fit that since the rice cakes are incredibly cute and appealing to look at! Would definitely come again when I'm in the area. They also had a jar for tips to help the local small businesses so I left some money since they were so genuine and kind. Highly recommend Hogetsu! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - French vanilla, floral, chewy, chocolate, Green tea, cappuccino, fresh strawberry, strawberry w/ bean filling - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

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I learned about Hogetsu on the Facebook and planned to visit right away. Their hours make it a bit of a challenge as they are only open M - Sat from 10 - 5. We went on a Saturday and had lunch at El Primo Birrieria (look for a review for them soon too) just a few store fronts away first. The bakery is modest, but their product is fantastic. The young man behind the counter was very helpful and patient. We purchased about a dozen pieces and kids, they are heavily. Soft, sweet and beautiful. I can't wait to try more. read more

Bad customer service. I called to ask if I could place an order over the phone for pickup, maybe I made a mistake but I thought I saw in the Yelp reviews that this was possible. I called the store and the owner answered all frazzled because there was a line of customers...He was just very unprofessional and was like you need to come into the store. Unfortunate because I was looking forward to trying the wonderful mochis that I read about on Yelp and maybe I will sometimes. This review is strictly on the experience I had over the phone with the owner. I called right before heading over and the owner told me that they had a lot of the flavors left. Very upset because when I came in there was only a few selections left. Horrible business! read more

The best mochi I've ever had. I've lived in Chula Vista for about 6 years and I've been missing out this whole time! I've bough mochi from the Mitsuwa but it doesn't even compare to Hogetsu. Their mochi is so soft, fresh, and sweet! I got a variety of mochi and they were all so delicious! The owners of the shop are the sweetest. I highly recommend this place for a sweet tooth craving. First timers if you're thinking of trying it, do it! You'll love it! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

I vaguely remember going to a Japanese Confectionary shop in Chula Vista years ago and was randomly wondering if they still existed. I found this bakery while visiting my hometown and was pleasantly surprised! Living in The Valley in L.A. would require a day trip to venture out to Gardena, Torrance, and Little Tokyo for home-made high quality mochi. This place is a hidden gem! It is easy to get to and they have ample parking! The mochi is soft and has a melt in your mouth quality! We put the mochi in the fridge and it's recommended to eat it within 2 days while in the fridge. It's day 4 in the fridge and we are still enjoying the mochi. read more

Best tea cakes and fresh mochi in San Diego, hands down. Clean, great selection, friendly owners and priced similarly to store bought mochi, though these are far more fresh and a much higher quality. Their hours are limited, but they're WELL worth the wait and the trip. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

The best + softest Mochi ever!! Plus the customer service is great. Very nice people + Mochi that is delish!

I love Hogetsu and feel fortunate to live near this store . The owners are always so nice and welcoming . My favorite are the pink striped mochi , and the red bean Mochi . Growing up we had to go to LA to get mochi that was fresh made . Try this store for fresh made and Yummy Mochi . read more

The owner & the treats were sweet and perfect! I came a little later in the day, so by the time I got there they were out of boxes. But the lady who helped me put the mochi very carefully and thoughtfully into a paper bag for me. Everything tasted great! I bought some for my family & my boyfriend's mom, they all loved it. I will definitely be back. read more

The mochi comes in an assortment of flavors. However, I came around noon and some of the flavors were already sold out. I would recommend coming in earlier if there is a specific flavor you are looking for. The owner was kind and helpful but seemed overwhelmed by the amount of new business. The line started picking up outside by the time I left so it's better to come earlier if you do not wish to wait. Remember to be kind and courteous. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Good variety of mochi such as grape, coconut, peanut butter, orange, pineapple, strawberry and many more. - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

This is the most amazing Japanese bakery. It was recommended by some friends and I decided to give it a try today. The Elderly Japanese gentleman behind the counter was super friendly! I had a good time talking to him for about 20 minutes. My son who loves the Japanese culture said it's the best Japanese baked goods he ever had. If you're in the mood for Japanese treats, this would be the place. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Assortment of mochi - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

My friend and I have been craving Mochi for a while and she heard about this place. I drove all the way from Escondido to try it :) There were so many different flavors and some of them with filling, as well. Something to note is that they're cash only, so we had to go find an ATM and come back. It was definitely worth the drive. The owners are very kind individuals. The Mochi itself are SO soft, light, and not overwhelmingly sweet. I would definitely stop by, again. read more

Duty called for me to work in South Bay so I took the opportunity to go holoholo in Chula Vista. Found this cute mochi shop with the most adorable little lady and (pretty sure) her grandson! Their mochi is so fresh and flavorful. You can tell a whole lotta love goes into their craft. My faves are the coconut, pineapple and strawberry with an. And such a small world, I even ran into a guy from my hometown of Aiea! Chatted up for a few minutes about our love of Hawaii and San Diego. Will be back soon! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - One of two boxes of assorted mochi. Sharing is caring. - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

I say this is the number one 'mochi' place in the west coast and they are much better than some of the mochi in Japan. The original owner who was once retired is still making mochi here. I really appreciate the fact that they are so fresh, great texture and not too sweet like authentic Japanese mochi. If you are happen to be in the area, I strongly recommend you stop by. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Mochi - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Love this little gem! I can't believe I didn't know it was there. If you love delicious, authentic Japanese Mochi, then pay them a visit. Very kind owners too! Cash only. read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Chocolate, coconut, and red bean Mochi. - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California

[THIS PLACE IS CASH/CHECK ONLY!!] their mochi is to die for; the lady is also the sweetest woman in existence !!! i live near the uni, but the drive is so worth it.... read more

I love this bakery & their mochi is amazing! Although my review is more about my experience here & the wonderful couple. I called 10 min to closing (the worst, I know!) & asked if there was any chance they had anything left for me to quickly swing by. I made it 5 min to closing & they happily stayed open for me & another little family ahead of me. They were so so sweet & we talked for a while after I had paid. On top of that, they gave me 2 pieces on the house just because they were closing. They seem to really love what they do & their customers! read more

Hogetsu Bakery - Flavors: hazelnut, milk, chocolate, lemon, green tea & a chewy/colorful one they threw in for me - Bakeries Near Me - Chula Vista, California