Photos: Umami Burger Opens in Hermosa

The day has come. Umami Burger opened Thursday, with much anticipation from the community—just look at Twitter where some fans have been voicing excitement:

"Yes. #surfers #burgers #beers" - tweeted Aimee Josellia in Los Angeles.

Celebrations began Wednesday night as a soft-launch was held for friends and family of the restaurant staff.

During the event, visitors tasted the Umami menu that includes items unique to its Hermosa Beach location: a (messy but flavorful), and two salads (a crisp chicken caesar salad and truffle beet salad.)

"The sky's the limit," said chef Jon Herndon about how the Umami team builds its menu.

Visitors to the restaurant might recognize some of the staffers who previously worked at , which was in the 1040 Hermosa Ave. building before Umami opened.

The ambiance at the Umami launch was vibrant and had a community feel. Some of the artwork hanging on the restaurant's walls was produced locally, including a piece by artist Mike Saijo, who stopped by the restaurant Wednesday.

"No other Umami Burger looks like this," said Umami representative Brian Rosman.

Hours for the new restaurant are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight.