Was recommended by a friend to check this place out on our trip in California. We got there when they opened, so we were served immediately. Our waiters were super friendly and made sure we were well taken care of. Wish they had a little bigger of a menu selection, but the food is amazing regardless!
Overview
Located in the heart of San Clemente, Hapa J's is a must-visit dining spot that beautifully combines the flavors of Hawaiian and Asian cuisine. Situated at 2016 S El Camino Real, this vibrant restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, making it a perfect place for locals and tourists alike.
Walking into Hapa J's, you're immediately struck by the warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's design reflects its fusion of cultures, with modern touches blending seamlessly with tropical accents. It's a place where you can unwind and enjoy a meal with family and friends or even on a romantic evening out. Whether you're sitting inside surrounded by stylish decor or enjoying the fresh air on the outdoor patio, the setting sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Hapa J's is an absolute standout, offering a wide range of options that cater to all tastes. From fresh seafood to savory meats, thereβs something for everyone. Their poke bowls are a crowd favorite, made with the freshest fish, and topped with an assortment of veggies, sauces, and rice. If you're craving something hearty, their plate lunches featuring teriyaki chicken or kalua pork are a great choice. Each dish is packed with bold flavors, and youβll find yourself coming back just to experience the rich, savory taste that defines Hawaiian and Asian fusion cuisine.
One of the things that truly sets Hapa J's apart is their commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The freshness of the fish used in their poke bowls and sushi rolls is evident in every bite. The chefs at Hapa J's donβt just cook food; they craft an experience. The attention to detail in the preparation of each dish, paired with the impeccable presentation, shows the passion behind every plate served. Whether itβs a fresh salad, a grilled seafood platter, or a rich, flavorful ramen, everything on the menu is made to delight.
The service at Hapa J's is another reason why itβs so beloved. The staff is always friendly and attentive, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and well taken care of. Whether youβre a regular or a first-time visitor, the team is eager to make your experience exceptional. The casual, yet professional service creates an environment where you can relax and truly enjoy your meal without any rush.
For dessert, don't miss out on their coconut cream pie or the tropical sorbet options. These sweet treats provide the perfect ending to a flavorful meal. The coconut cream pie, in particular, is a hit with both kids and adults, offering a smooth, creamy texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
Another aspect that makes Hapa J's stand out is its location. Being in San Clemente, youβre just a short distance from the beach, which makes it a great spot to grab a bite after a day of surfing or exploring the coast. Itβs a local favorite, and itβs easy to see why. The combination of excellent food, a relaxed yet chic ambiance, and friendly service makes Hapa J's a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
For those looking to plan a visit, Hapa J's offers both dine-in and takeout options, so you can enjoy their delicious offerings wherever you are. The restaurant also hosts special events, making it an ideal venue for gatherings or celebrations. Whether youβre looking for a casual meal or a special occasion, Hapa J's delivers an experience thatβs both satisfying and unforgettable.
With its diverse menu, inviting atmosphere, and excellent service, Hapa J's continues to earn praise from its loyal patrons and newcomers alike. Itβs a place that offers much more than just a meal-it offers a taste of something special.
Good to know
Service options
β Delivery β Takeaway β Dine-inHighlights
β Fast service β Great beer selection β Great cocktails β Serves local specialty β SportPopular for
β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible car park β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Comfort food β Happy-hour drinks β Happy-hour food β Quick bite β Small plates β Spirits β WineDining options
β Lunch β Dinner β Catering β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β TrendyCrowd
β Groups β Tourists β University studentsPlanning
β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile payments β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parking β Free parking lot β ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Absolutely delicious food! Loved the vibe in the restaurant too, the open windows, surfer vibe, really added to the Hawaiian theme. My son said he had the best pulled pork quesadilla he's ever had! the thai beef salad was so yummy, and spicy, but in a good way. The tuna melt and cheesesteak sandwich were awesome too. We were really impressed and highly recommend
While eating dinner here, I thought I was in Hawaii. My wife was incredibly impressed. The flavors and presentation of our dinner plates were outstanding and memorable enough to want to come back for more. The teriyaki burger was just right - sauce was seasoned well enough to bring out flavors in the rest of the burger. Although fries were a bit salty, the burger was more than enough to be satisfied. The Loco Moco was also amazing - paired with pickled mango and Kim chee. Gravy on the side was my mistake. The next time, I will ask them to add more on top of the whole thing, eggs and all. Rice was perfect, showcasing the tender hamburger patty. Dinner was so amazing, we had to get a slice of cheesecake dessert because it had to be tried based on principle, especially after that meal. I highly recommend it. Don't be afraid to find parking and get into Hapa J's as this meal is a fantastic experience.
Great Hawaiian style Platters with tons of side dishes to choose from, they even have kimchi
Alright I chose this email that won't say my name. But tonight I ordered their nachos for delivery (I usually go in person when I for happy hour) but all I can say is I love this place. And tonight they made me smile more than ever. On my order in the part where it asks for customization stuff I put them a super secret special message (I wanted them to smile and they know what I said). And they sent me this amazing note with an awesome desert because they saw my note! I wanna cry because nice people still exist! Whoever was working that night I love you. Not just because you gave me cheesecake (I haven't eaten it just yet but I'm excited too). But because you guys saw my note and gave me another note back! THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU! I'm sending virtual air hugs your way now!(: This brought me so much joy. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Ill never forget this! I love you all!
One of the best restaurants in San Clemente. Food is delicious and their prices are reasonable Parking was easy and fast, great service! I found items on the menu I haven't seen anywhere else so they get extra points for that. Also thanks for happy hour!
Delectable! This place has delicious appetizers and main entrees. More than likely you will go home with eats for later, because they have good portions that will definitely fill you up. All of the staff was kind and gave great recommendations as well.