Japan Lands in East Village at Ayaka Ito and Masaki Yamauchi's Three New Concepts

Photo by KimberlyMotos

Renowned sake sommelier and restauranteur, Ayaka Ito, is set to captivate the palates of food enthusiasts once again with a trio of innovative dining experiences next to her acclaimed ramen establishment, BESHOCK, all inspired by her hometown, Nagoya, in Japan. Beautifully designed and imagined by co-owner Masaki Yamauchi, Asa Bakery, Sushi Gaga, and Bar Kamon are the latest additions that promise to bring an exceptional blend of tradition and creativity to the heart of East Village.

East Village San Diego is known as a lively hub for great food, vibrant arts, and exciting entertainment. It's a place where people come to enjoy good times and explore new things. Ayaka Ito and Masaki Yamauchi’s three concepts fit right into this mix. Asa Bakery, Sushi Gaga, and Bar Kamon aren't just places to eat—they're like pieces of the puzzle that make East Village even more amazing. People can come for a delicious meal at the bakery, experience the artistry of food at Sushi Gaga, and then enjoy a touch of history and flavor at Bar Kamon. These concepts add new colors to the already vibrant tapestry of East Village's culture, making it an even more inviting and captivating destination for locals and visitors alike.

Bar Kamon will be opening Wednesday, August 23

Bar Kamon references the elegance of the Taisho-era, infusing classic Japanese cocktails with a Western influence. The cocktail bar exudes a vintage charm that beckons patrons to unwind and savor the art of mixology. In this intimate setting, guests can enjoy the incredible blend of Japanese tradition and Western innovation, resulting in a unique and unforgettable drinking experience.

Ayaka Ito's exciting new ideas go beyond just cooking; they're all about celebrating different kinds of food and culture. These concepts aren't just about trying new foods—they're creating a picture made up of many flavors that show how diverse and special the Japanese community is. 

Asa Bakery is set to open Friday, August 25

From the first step into Asa Bakery, guests are transported into a world where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixes with traditional Japanese teas. The bakery introduces a captivating twist to the Japanese kissaten culture, offering an assortment of artisanal breads and pastries that perfectly complement the richness of their brews and the hojicha and matcha teas sourced directly from Shizuoka. 

Sushi Gaga will be accepting reservations on September 1 for seats beginning September 15

Stepping beyond the bakery, Sushi Gaga awaits—an intimate space designed to redefine the art of omakase. With a limited seating capacity of just ten guests per evening, Ayaka Ito's visionary omakase concept presents an exquisite dining journey that unfolds like a symphony of flavors. The chef's mastery is on full display as she coordinates an ensemble of the finest, sustainably sourced seafood, transforming each dish into a captivating visual and culinary masterpiece.