Marking its 10th anniversary, Hapa Izakaya on Robson Street presents a new Oyster Bar, offering fresh, local, Ocean Wise oysters.
Founded by Justin and Lea Ault in 2003, Hapa has evolved the Japanese Pub concept from small drinking houses with plates of munchies to sophisticated lounges with sparkling cocktails, extensive sake offerings and Japanese dishes ranging from simple to complex, with an emphasis on local seasonal ingredients and modern sustainability goals.
Many of the beloved oysters currently harvested off the Pacific coast were imported from Japan in the early 1900s. As the Pacific oyster has evolved locally, so has the Izakaya, revolutionized in the early 2000s; both are successful Japanese-North American hybrids. “Combining history and tradition with innovation is something our chefs pride themselves on, so expanding the menu to include these beautiful 3rd generation oysters, paired with modern Japanese flavours, just felt right,” says Justin Ault.
The oyster bar menu includes favourites such as Royal Miyagis (Northern Gulf Islands) and Kusshis (Baynes Sound). In addition to fresh, shucked oysters, guests can enjoy savoury, cooked oysters, like Kaki Mentai (baked with bonito soy sauce and spicy cod roe sauce), Motoyaki (baked with miso mayo sauce and shoestring potatoes), and Kaki Fry (6 pieces pan-fried in panko breading and served with Japanese tartar sauce).
Oyster lovers will also be happy to note that during “Hapa Hour” (everyday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm) Hapa Robson will feature oysters for 1.49, along with half-price tapas.
Join Hapa daily at 1479 Robson Street from 5:30pm till late.
View our full Oyster Menu here.