Little Italy’s Adorable Asian Buns Arrive in Carlsbad

Harumama, which opened earlier this year in Little Italy and has been charming the neighborhood with its cute steamed buns in cartoon animal shapes, has just debuted an outlet in Carlsbad. Created by Jenny and James Pyo, who also run Love Boat Sushi, the new branch of Harumama slots in between two of the couple’s other eateries, Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar and Pokewan.

Located on a remodeled outdoor patio and spanning 25 seats, the eatery serves a similar version of Little Italy’s menu. In addition to its popular pig, chicken, and panda-shaped buns, the Carlsbad outpost also offers a ground beef buns modeled after the cuddly star from the film My Neighborhood Totoro as well as a Winnie the Pooh-shaped bun stuffed with sweet egg custard. An array of dishes that draw Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisines is also featured, including ramen, sushi rolls, potstickers, and spicy pork bowls.

Through November 30 (except for this Sunday, November 18), Harumama will be open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Regular operating hours start December 1 and will run Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m, Friday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.