Japan Lands In East Village At Ayaka Ito And Masaki Yamauchi’s Three New Concepts

Renowned sake sommelier and restauranteur, Ayaka Ito, captivates 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 bring an exceptional blend of tradition and creativity to the heart of East Village.

Asa Bakery

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, a quiet gathering place to drink coffee for writers and intellectuals, 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

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.

Bar Kamon

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.

See you there

Ayaka Ito’s exciting new concepts showcase the diverse beauty of the Japanese community and culture, and together, these three establishments are adding serious buzz to the East Village food scene!

See you there, San Diego!