Originally located in Burlingame, Hibari has been open in Portola Valley for three months, serving authentic Japanese cuisine and attracting customers. Owner Jesse Sun formerly ran the restaurant Daigo Sushi in San Francisco for 10 years, and later sold it due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading her to try a new concept.
Sun and head chef Takashi Sega, or “taka,” had always talked about starting a business together, and with the help of Sun’s wife in designing the format of the restaurant, Sun and Taka began to make the idea a reality. The restaurant officially opened on Nov. 17 and later moved to Portola Valley.
Grilled Cod Saikyo Miso Set ($36): 9/10
The grilled cob miso set features grilled cod, served with fried sardines, rice, and miso soup. The cod is drizzled with a homemade sesame seed sauce, giving it a sweet yet tangy flavor that perfectly complements the ginger and lotus flower served in the mix. The miso soup is a little tangy and includes tofu. The sardines taste like peanut oil, and the rice has a moist texture.
Grilled Salmon Kasuzuke Set ($22): 7/10
The grilled salmon kasusuke set consists of salmon, served with fried sardines, white rice, and miso soup. The salmon has a crispy outside, but still holds a moist texture in the middle. Without a hint of sesame oil, the salmon has little flavor. However, when topped with rice and soy sauce, the dish becomes much more flavorful.
Kaisen Don Set ($46): 10/10
The kaisen don set consists of a sashimi rice bowl topped with homemade sesame seed dressing and fresh wasabi from Half Moon Bay. The kaisen is very flavourful, in a sweet, salty, and fresh way. The sashimi is incredibly delicious, resembling a spicy tuna roll. The different types of sashimi really bring out the dish’s flavors.
Moshi Sparkling Yuzu ($7): 10/10
The Moshi drink has a strong lemon flavor that resembles Sprite, but with a more sour and less sweet twist. It is less carbonated than a typical soda, making it easier to swallow without carbonation burning the throat. This drink is a must-have with any heavy meal, as it perfectly complements savory flavors.
