A Japanese Speakeasy in San Clemente!

You’ll walk into a very unassuming building, check-in by ‘the bookcase’, before being ushered up a hidden staircase...

A Japanese Speakeasy!

You’ll sneak through an unassuming storefront—pass the bookcase, duck down a secret staircase—and emerge into a cozy, dimly lit bar dripping in Tokyo-meets-beach-town chic. Lanterns, theatrical reds, deep woods—it’s intimate and mysterious with just the right level of hush.

Sit at the bar and chat with knowledgeable mixologists, who’ll tweak and customize drinks to your exact tastes.

Once inside, you’re greeted by a sumptuous splash of Tokyo colors - the perfect ambiance to enjoy some of the best-crafted cocktails we’ve experienced in OC.

I ordered the Echo Zulu—a bold, spirit-forward cocktail that somehow tasted like a jazz solo—and Lorna had the Kyuri, a cucumber-y, light, refreshing drink that made me want to sip it very slowly and order another.

Next time, we’re 100% doing the Japanese whisky flight (they have rare ones you won’t find elsewhere).

Definitely try a couple of the hand rolls. The fish is flown in from Japan weekly, and you can taste the difference in every bite. Each roll is made to order, but heads-up: they’re more like delicate, perfect bites than a full meal.

If you’re really hungry, start your night upstairs with cocktails and sushi, then head down to Sonny’s for a heartier dinner.

Know Before You Go
🍣 Hand rolls are the focus, with occasional uni shots and seasonal specials.

🍶 Cocktails feature house infusions, matcha, and custom carbonation—thoughtfully made and balanced.

🌙 Go at night if you can—the lighting and vibe are way more atmospheric after dark. We went once before sunset, and it just didn’t feel as magical.

🚗 There’s a small parking lot in front, but it fills up fast—give yourself time to find street parking nearby.

🍹 Bonus tip: Downstairs is Lost Inferno, a Goonies-themed tiki bar with tropical drinks.

📍 Address: 425 N El Camino Real C, San Clemente, CA 92672

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