The skies parted, the sun came out, and hundreds of Vancouver's finest Elites were finally able to say Sayonara Spring, Hapa to Yelp You, Summer this past Monday, July 16 at Hapa Izakaya's newest location in Coal Harbour.
Arriving in style for a true VIP experience, Elites were escorted to Hapa's sleek and modern room by the sea, courtesy of Uber town cars and a Yelp promotion. Melissa C exclaims, "All on my iPhone, setting up an account and a pick-up location with a simple click was all it took to summon a private and luxurious ride downtown." Meana K noticed, "A lineup of stripes and sailor hats promptly at 7pm" being swiftly checked-in by Hazel of Venuewize before stepping in to a grand and open space with a gorgeous view. "Yelp's taken a step up, with their fancy iPad check-ins and classy members who dress their part, sipping sake amidst the Coal Harbour sunset background."
Immediately proving why Hapa was voted one of the “Top Five Izakayas In North America” by Bon Appétit Magazine in 2011, the staff were all hands on deck, offering a winning combination of a sexy room, excellent service, outstanding Japanese tapas, and the best in liquid libations. Driftwood Ale, and Diamond and Gokujo sake helped Elites sail through the room, while the evening's big surprise was the Absolut Elyx, "a brand spankin' new and very ultra smooth vodka that you just have to sip straight or on the rocks. It's so smooth you feel like you're tasting just the essence of vodka off the ice cubes rather than drinking pure vodka. Amazing."
"Choice tracks were playing" courtesy of resident DJ She, while "Plentiful and mouthwatering edibles were served armada style, dish after succulent dish flowing through the beautiful Hapa room effortlessly by the gorgeous Hapa staff. Libations were flowing-over with goodness, and not one attendee was for lack." With an exclusive Ocean Wise seafood menu inspired by kaiseki-trained executive chef Nobu Watanabe, and plenty of veggie options for those green-loving Elites, "the 2-hour event went by so quickly with the continuous onslaught of hot, freshly prepared appies, which were all delicious and unique."
But it was Hapa's staff that really set the evening apart, "they were so gracious and working their butts off to make sure everyone got enough food, drinks, and were having a good time." Steven S exclaims, "this will go down as one of my favourite elite events. What a great venue Hapa downtown is; the other Hapas are darker, moodier, this is light open and perfect for groups. I will be making this Hapa my go-to Hapa now. I prefer to open lightness of it, especially in the Summer. Oh, and the Candy Sushi was fun."
A big thank you to Jade, Kevin, Miyuki, and all of the Hapa crew who made us feel as though we were lounging on the deck of a luxury yacht; and the Yelp Elites for being quiet when I need them to; and for being awesome, always.
Read 5-star reviews as they pour in here, and check out the amazing photos by LindsaysDiet here.
Until next time Yelpies,
/ robin m
Your 'Captain of this Ship' Community Manager
