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.

Asa Bakery
Asa Bakery 2
Asa Bakery
Asa Bakery

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.

Sushi Gaga
Sushi Gaga
Sushi Gaga

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

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.

Bar Kamon
Bar Kamon
Bar Kamon

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!

Share This Post
The Latest
Little Italy Food Hall reimagined
Big things are coming to the Piazza della Famiglia, with the Little Italy Food Hall reimagined as a vibrant, multi-concept dining venue launching Fall 2025....
Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center
There’s a new reason to head south this summer: the long-awaited Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center officially opened its doors today in Chula Vista—and...
Navy's Bay Bridge Run Walk
Ready to hit the bridge for one of San Diego’s most unique and breathtaking races? The Navy’s 38th Annual Bay Bridge Run/Walk is returning—and this...
Escondido Street Festival
Get ready, San Diego—the Escondido Street Festival is back and ready to take over Historic Downtown Escondido with a full day of shopping, live music,...
San Diego Crawfish Boil
Get ready to pinch, peel, and party—because the San Diego Crawfish Boil is back and bigger than ever! Presented by the LSU Alumni of San...
The bats are coming out and the taps are turning on—Over the Line Beer Fest & Tournament is back for its 9th year, and it’s...
Recently Featured Restaurants
A new fire has lit up Little Italy—Piedra Santa, an Argentinian-inspired steakhouse, is now open and bringing the bold, smoky tradition of open-flame grilling to...
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
There’s a breezy new addition to Little Italy’s dining scene! Brisa, an island vibes and Latin-Japanese fusion restaurant, is now open at the corner of...
Downtown La Mesa has a delicious new addition—Tour de Tapas, a restaurant offering Euro small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain,...
Tajima Crown Point is the latest addition to San Diego’s beloved ramen scene, officially opened on December 14 at 3782 Ingraham Street. Known for its...
Wildland in Carlsbad Village is officially opening its doors, bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County. This all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from...