What comes to mind when you think about your first love? A person? A place? An experience? The Japanese word for “first love” is Hatsukoi, and at Hatsukoi Restaurant and Sushi Bar in Ocean Springs, the first love there is definitely food.
Hatsukoi has definitely lived up to its name for Owner Thuan Nguyen and Chef Chi Chi, as they both enjoy seeing the love that customers experience when eating handmade rolls or delicately-crafted meals. One trip to Hatsukoi and you too will feel the love.
Hatsukoi’s menu is perfect. It offers exceptional appetizers, a variety of spectacular rolls, and other sushi options. In addition, non-sushi options such as bento boxes are a menu fixture. Many sushi restaurants only offer bento boxes during lunch, but Hatsukoi’s bento boxes are available all day. They’re not only a delicious option for non-sushi-lovers, but the perfect compromise when everyone’s palate is craving something different.
The Tempura Fried Asparagus Salad is a great way to begin your meal. A generous portion of lightly tempura-battered asparagus sticks are arranged atop a bed of greens, shredded carrots and beets. It is then topped with spicy teriyaki, boom sauce, yum yum sauce and a delicate sprinkle of sesame seeds. Everything is delightfully crunchy and boasts a wonderful Asian flavor. The Beef Tataki is a Hatsukoi favorite. Choice ribeye is seared medium rare and served atop mixed greens. A sweet ponzu sauce makes for the perfect accent to this unique starter. The absolute standout, however, is the Tuna Twister. A generous amount of spicy tuna is nestled in thin layers of avocado, which are then wrapped in a beautiful flower-shaped twist. It was definitely a crowd favorite.
On the sushi side, the Sashimi Platter is a beautiful presentation of fresh, raw chef’s choice fish. Offered in a regular or deluxe size, this is a great meal to share. The Crab Delight was one of my favorites, mostly for its cucumber wrap. The creamy filling of spicy crab, shrimp, cream cheese, and avocado provides a great balance to its crunchy exterior. The Blossom Roll’s combination of shrimp tempura and spicy tuna is spot on and incredibly filling. Not sure which roll to order? Try your luck with a Hatsukoi specialty Chef Roll. Offered at three different price points, the Chef’s Roll is exactly that – the sushi chef’s choice of on-the-fly ingredients rolled into a delicious surprise roll that will likely be an absolute crowd pleaser. Delicious fried rice offerings finish off a clever menu with just the right number of options.
Hatsukoi is excited about its future as a sushi staple in Ocean Springs. With over 20 years of sushi experience, Chef Chi Chi and his team are excited to be a part of the coastal restaurant scene. As an incentive to its customers, Hatsukoi offers a rewards program where you can earn credit towards future purchases. This family-run business is excited to show you what Hatsukoi truly means.
Hatsukoi Restaurant and Sushi Bar
3004 Bienville Blvd., Ste 4, Ocean Springs
228.300.0609
Facebook @HatsukoiOceanSprings
Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday – Closed
