Harumama Noodles & Buns To Open Location In San Diego's Encinitas

April 1, 2021

Opening later this year in San Diego's Encinitas neighborhood is the fourth location of Harumama Noodles & Buns, a kitschy Japanese restaurant concept known for its animal-shaped buns.

Husband and wife restaurateurs James & Jenny Pyo have founded such area eateries as Love Boat Sushi in San Marcos and Oceanside, Harumama restaurants in Little Italy & Carlsbad, Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar in Carlsbad, Blue Smoke Sushi in Fashion Valley Mall, two Pokewan locations, and, most recently, Harumama-offshoot Teriyaki & Bao in Carlsbad. In 2019, they opened their most ambitious project yet, a combination concept Harumama Noodles & Buns and Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi in the 5,000 square foot space perched above La Jolla Shores that last previously housed The Hake. Over the course of its 3 years in business, Harumama Noodle & Buns became an Instagram sensation due to a rotating lineup of animal & character-shaped stuffed buns, including a recently released Winnie The Pooh variety.

Harumama's next location will open in the 2,150 square-foot space that last housed Pick Up Sticks in Encinitas Village Square plaza and will serve a similar menu as the other branches. Designed by Executive Chef James Pyo, the food menu will include a bunch of eclectic ramen noodle soup varieties, as well as sushi rolls, steamed character sticky buns, and homemade dumplings. The eatery will also serve an array of appetizers, salads, and poke bowls. From the bar, expect craft beer, wine and sake.

Harumama is expected to unveil its fourth location as early as this summer at 1486 Encinitas Boulevard, Suite 1460, in Encinitas. For more information, visit harumamasd.com.