Originally operated as “Maiko Sushi”, the restaurant owners reopened as “Hanabi’s” in fall 2009 as a modern Japanese Izakaya bar and bistro. Hanabi’s now offers one of the only tapas-style Japanese menus in the Portland metro area.

Owners Kinuko “Kay” Thompson and Toyoko Rickert (daughter) were both born and raised in Japan. Toyoko is a veteran restaurateur and is responsible for developing the new Hanabi's bar and bistro concept.

Kay has been a professional chef in the United States for almost 40 years. Kay’s infectious good spirit and remarkable talents are an inspiration to all.

The combined strengths of this unique mother/daughter team have been the recipe to Hanabi’s overwhelming success.

"Izakaya" is a compound word consisting of "i" (to sit) and "sakaya" (sake shop). The concept originally began as a “sake house” for measuring, packaging, and selling sake. As it evolved, hors d'oeuvres and more substantial Japanese snacks were added to compliment the drink menu.