San Diego · Ramen · casual
The Yasai (by RakiRaki)
Plant-based Japanese ramen and izakayaVegan sushiJapanese izakayaKearny MesaLittle Italy
Tokyo-born chef-owner Junya Watanabe created The Yasai as the vegan-forward sibling to his acclaimed RakiRaki Ramen brand. The restaurant offers inventive plant-based ramen, fermented-vegetable vegan sushi, and izakaya-style small plates rooted in genuine Japanese technique.
- Price
- ¥¥
- Area
- Kearny Mesa / Convoy
- Since
- 2020
- Chef
- Junya Watanabe
Plate № 79
About
Junya Watanabe was born in Tokyo and built his San Diego reputation through RakiRaki Ramen, one of the city's most beloved ramen brands. The Yasai (やさい, 'vegetables' in Japanese) takes plant-based Japanese dining seriously — every bowl and sushi roll is crafted with the same rigor Watanabe applies to his meat-based ramen. The restaurant pioneered fermented-vegetable vegan sushi in San Diego, with handrolls and specialty rolls using umami-rich fermented components in place of fish. Soy sauce–pickled egg alternatives, mochi noodles, and house-made broths anchor an izakaya menu that satisfies vegans and omnivores alike. Two San Diego locations serve the Kearny Mesa and Little Italy neighborhoods.
Neighborhood & visiting
The Yasai (by RakiRaki) sits in Kearny Mesa / Convoy, one of San Diego's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. The house does not publish an online booking link; call ahead to secure a seat, especially on weekends. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional ramen restaurants often close between service periods.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Tokyo-born chef-owner Junya Watanabe applies genuine Japanese technique to an entirely plant-based menu
- Pioneer of fermented-vegetable vegan sushi in San Diego — a genuinely original culinary concept
- Full izakaya experience — sake, Japanese craft beer, and small plates — without any meat or seafood
- Proof that authentic Japanese culinary craft and plant-based dining are fully compatible
Second location at 2254 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Little Italy), +1 619-955-5770.
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Frequently asked
About The Yasai (by RakiRaki)
- Is The Yasai (by RakiRaki) an authentic plant-based japanese ramen and izakaya restaurant in San Diego?
- Yes — The Yasai (by RakiRaki) is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for plant-based japanese ramen and izakaya in San Diego: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused ramen format.
- Where is The Yasai (by RakiRaki) located?
- The Yasai (by RakiRaki) is located at 4646 Convoy St Suite 101-A, San Diego, CA 92111, San Diego, USA in the Kearny Mesa / Convoy neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at The Yasai (by RakiRaki)?
- The Yasai (by RakiRaki) does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular ramen restaurants in San Diego we recommend calling ahead.
- What is the price range at The Yasai (by RakiRaki)?
- The Yasai (by RakiRaki) sits in the ¥¥ price range — typical for plant-based japanese ramen and izakaya of this format in San Diego.
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