I'm almost sure that 99.9% of the people in San Diego or Chula Vista have never heard of this place.
Located in another one of those non-descript strip malls strung throughout Chula Vista, Hogetsu Bakery makes excellent Manju and Mochi, and also sells Castella and other Japanese goodies.
A friendly, Family run operation, Hogetsu has been in business since 1983. So I'm still amazed that only 1 person that I've spoken to has ever heard of this place! Many people I know still drive to Los Angeles to get their Manju, or just buy them from Nijiya or Mitsuwa.
The prices are reasonable ranging from $.95 and up. And there are many varieties available. I purchased a small box of goodies ($9.00).
It's amazing when you bite into a "fresh" Habutai; usually somewhat chewy, this one is softer, more delicate. It's almost strange being used to store bought manju how different this was.
So there's really no need to drive to Los Angeles for mochi anymore. It's just down the street in Chula Vista.
Hogetsu Bakery
1210 3rd Ave
Chula Vista, CA 91911
Open Tues-Sat 10am-6pm
(619) 422-6677
One quick post-script - For fellow Chowhounds, Hogetsu Bakery is located in the same mall as the infamous Kaga Zushi.....
Maybe Candice can find out?? Are you still in touch?
Posted by: Jenne | Friday, 26 February 2021 at 09:55 AM
I'm working on that Jenne! ;o)
Posted by: Kirk | Friday, 26 February 2021 at 10:45 AM
The Naruto owner is learning how to make some simple things from the owners. But none of the fancy stuff. Mainly just mochi with flavors.
Posted by: Junichi Hiraiwa | Friday, 26 February 2021 at 01:37 PM
The sakuramochi are my very favorite. :(
Posted by: Jenne | Friday, 26 February 2021 at 04:58 PM
So, I went on over this past weekend and got some info before they got a bit busy. I just did a post.
Posted by: Kirk | Monday, 01 March 2021 at 05:49 AM
I was just there a few days ago and the Takeda's were still working even though they are officiall retired. They are busy training the new owner (guy who owns Naruto nearby; the old Kaga Sushi). Thank goodness they had a good selection. They were crazy busy last summer after someone on social media said they would be going out of business. Everyone bumrushed Hogetsu for about a month or so...long lines and only 1 type of mochi available (the plain squares). Glad I waited out. Although I am saddened by their retirement, it was time. They should enjoy their golden years - The Takeda's and their shop are truly a South Bay institution.
I wonder what the new name of their shop will be...
also re: super late reply to "ED"....yes, Hiro Shoten used to be nearby in that strip mall. Along with the now defunct Utage restaurant (used to be the only Japanese restaurant down south for years); it is now a birria place.
Posted by: caninecologne | Saturday, 27 March 2021 at 08:18 PM
Thanks for the info CC! I'll probably drop by in a couple of weeks. I've been to Birrieria El Primo.
https://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/2017/12/birrieria-el-primo.html
Posted by: Kirk | Sunday, 28 March 2021 at 02:39 PM