Discover A Hidden Sushi Bar And Speakeasy Inside This Unique Japanese Bakery
By Natasha Kayes|Published January 03, 2024
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
I don’t know about you, but I love surprises, unique concepts, and creative endeavors. One of the newest Southern California eateries embodies all of that, and it is already a hit with locals. Asa Bakery in San Diego, CA, may look like just another coffee house, but trust me, it is anything but – and it has some stupendous surprises up its figurative sleeves. Let’s dive in!
Asa Bakery and Cafe introduces itself to customers as something akin to a Japanese kissaten - coffee and tea shops found all over Nagoya Japan, the hometown of the bakery’s owner. But the bakery is just one thing she is operating here. More on that in a minute.
Delicious Japanese breads and pastries are baked fresh daily. Visitors can expect a variety of traditional soft buns filled with various sweet and flavors, Japanese milk bread, melon pan, mochi bagels, and more, as well as Karate and Katsu sandwiches, Hayashi rice plates, and truffle fries.
One of the hidden secrets inside the bakery is Sushi Gaga, an intimate upscale dining experience that takes the idea of a sushi bar to an entirely new level.
This tiny restaurant offers omakase (literally meaning “I leave it up to you”) dining to only 10 guests at a time. The nightly menu is decided on by the expert chefs and features fresh sashimi, nigiri, and other specialties.
Another hidden door leads to a 1920’s Japan-era-inspired speakeasy called Bar Kamon with a laid-back elegance, deep red carpet, chandeliers, leather chairs, cozy sofas, and a Zen garden - a rich, yet simple atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing, drink in hand.
Order your favorite drink from the full bar, choose one of the incredible craft cocktails from the signature menu, or enjoy a delicious “mocktail.” Pair your choice with a nice selection of bar food.
Come for the coffee and pastries, the fresh sushi, or the prohibition-era cocktails – or explore all three! Whatever you choose, you are in for something special. Learn more about Asa Bakery and Cafe, Sushi Gaga, and Bar Kamon on their respective websites. Have you tried anything here at this three-in-one establishment? We definitely want to hear from you! Asa Bakery is just one example of the awesomeness San Diego has to offer. Explore even more of the area’s culinary delights on a walking food tour!
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