Rakiraki Owner To Open Hand Roll Sushi Concept | J/Wata Temaki Bar Is Coming To San Diego's Convoy District This Spring

February 21, 2017

Junya Watanabe will open J/Wata Temaki Bar in the neighboring space adjacent to his popular Rakiraki Ramen and Pokirrito concepts in San Diego's Convoy District, which was previously occupied by Bab's Bao's Awesome Burgers & Sandwiches. J/Wata will focus exclusively on premium temaki, or sushi hand rolls, and is slated to open this spring.

Chef/owner Junya Watanabe, who also brought the Rakiraki Ramen and Pokirrito concepts to San Diego's Convoy District and Little Italy, has taken over the 1,500 square-foot space in the same plaza where his other restaurants sit at 4646 Convoy Street in Kearny Mesa.

The interior of the space is receiving a redesign by San Diego-based One of a Kind Company whose recent projects include Pali Wine Co. in Little Italy and Monkey King in the Gaslamp Quarter. J/Wata's design aesthetic will be modern and minimalist with tones of grey, black, natural woods and stainless steel, providing a backdrop designed to showcase the beauty of the hand rolls. Centered around an exclusive 22-seat sushi bar, the eatery's decor will also incorporate playful touches reminiscent of the iconic fish markets in Tokyo.

The menu at J/Wata will feature a variety of premium hand roll selections, many made with locally-sourced fish, specially harvested seaweed, exclusive craft sauces, and Junya’s signature sushi rice. Anticipated menu favorites include the flame blistered eel from Japan, Gindara Saikyo-Yaki (grilled marinated black cod with miso), a signature uni handroll, and the flame blistered prime sirloin. There will also be a variety of sashimi, as well as a selection of Japanese beer, sake, wine and tea. J/Wata is expected to open by this April. 

For more information and to check out the restaurant's launch menu, visit j-wata.com.