Kelsey was wonderful! The food was fresh and delicious! Highly recommend The atmosphere was fun and light read more

Cru was da man! Took care of our group for my homies bachelor party. Food was great, ambience felt like a club, and service was top notch. read more

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Arrived early on a Wednesday an hour after opening. Was seated immediately, place was basically empty. Service from Martin was great, he was attentive and friendly. Overall experience was just meh. The Albacore Delight roll smelled fishy, and the Toro Truffle for $36 was a disappointment. Overpriced. The Veggie Dumplings were delicious, highly recommend those. The Miso Soup was good, but it was brought out with a huge spoon! Strange. Also got the Garlic Edamame, really good, highly recommend. Cocktails and sake were good. Bathroom soap dispenser was empty, unacceptable for only being open for an hour. Go for some drinks and an app, but I don't recommend full dinner service. read more

Tried out AKA recently and overall, it was a decent spot but nothing that really stood out. We ordered the Singapore Tempura Rock Shrimp, Filet Mignon Potstickers, and Salmon Avocado Roll along with drinks -- the Ube Matcha Horchata and Dirty Chai Martini. The Tempura Rock Shrimp was hands down the highlight of the meal. They give you a huge portion, perfectly fried with that light, crispy tempura batter and a spicy sauce that had a nice kick without being overpowering. Definitely the best bang for your buck. The Filet Mignon Potstickers, on the other hand, were disappointing. For the price, you only get three pieces, and they were mostly empty -- barely any filet inside. You get a faint beef flavor, but it didn't deliver the richness you'd expect from something labeled "filet mignon." The Salmon Avocado Roll was solid flavor-wise but small compared to rolls at other sushi spots nearby. Still, I'd probably order it again if I was craving something simple. Drink-wise, the Dirty Chai Martini was more like a coffee martini -- heavy on the espresso flavor, light on the chai. The Ube Matcha Horchata sounded interesting but ended up just tasting overly sweet with no real matcha or ube flavor coming through. Waiter was cool tho, he held it down as 4 other tables entered right when we sat down. He was busy but he paid attention to our table to the best he could It was relatively quiet for a Thursday at 6pm but it's nice cause HH ends at 7 Overall, AKA is fine for a casual drink and bite during happy hour, but with so many great options nearby, I'd probably try another place before coming back. read more

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Went on a Friday around 6pm. We had a reservation, but it wasn't needed at that time of the evening, as it was pretty quiet. The hostess was very sweet and took us right to a table. Our server came over pretty quickly and got our drink order. Even though it wasn't busy, it probably took 10 minutes to get a cocktail. When he came back he offered some suggestions about items we were considering. The two of us opted to get a 4 plates and share everything. As far as the wagyu, yellowtail, and tuna, all were pretty good, but I feel like they shaved them smaller than anywhere I have been before. The dan dan noodles were ok, but I think they were supposed to have a poached egg that didn't come? I felt they were also lacking in flavor, but seemed to be the best portion size of any of the items. The first 2 food items came really quickly, and then there was quite a wait between each of the other two items. We were still finishing the last and had to wave down our server because we had a show to get to. Our server checked on us once during the time we were eating, but he seemed to disappear for long periods of time. He was nice, but not as concerned about long wait times as maybe he should have been. We left around 7:30, which was good, as a DJ was starting. The music was super loud. I felt like it was a little early for the music to be that loud, as that is prime dinner time and it would have been hard to have a conversation. Just something to note if you are thinking about going for a nice dinner vs evening cocktails. While the experience wasn't terrible, and it's a beautiful space, it's just not a place I am interested in going back to. We left with a large bill, but I didn't feel full. We probably needed another dish or two, but the cost or wait wasn't worth it. read more

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Had dinner here last week. This place was formally LAVA. I like the new decor and vibes. Food was good. Service was good. I really like that they had a dj and they do a whole bit for birthdays. I would recommend. read more

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My husband and I had such a great experience at AKA. The food was amazing! we ordered the filet mignon potstickers, the toro truffle roll, and the bluefin roll (highly recommend, especially since it was suggested to us). I also had the dirty chai martini, which was such a great surprise. It was smooth, unique, and honestly one of those drinks you remember after the night is over. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and really well done. But what truly made our night was Serena, the host. She went above and beyond for my husband and I in a way that didn't go unnoticed. She was incredibly attentive, kind, and made us feel genuinely taken care of the entire time. It's rare to come across someone who puts that much care into the guest experience. Her level of service and attention is exactly what you'd hope for when dining out. I wished she was serving our table! Our visit to AKA was truly memorable. Between the food, the atmosphere, and the exceptional service, we'll definitely be coming back the next time we're in town. read more

This place was incredible. We had reservations but it turned out to be a stormy and windy night so we didn't really need it after all since everyone was pretty much staying in after all. This was our first time here and they left a great impression on us. The inside was decorated beautifully, the dim lighting was very romantic, all of the employees were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. The food was all incredible. We happened to come during happy hour, which we didn't even know they had happy hour, so that was a plus. Bill was only around $300, there were 3 of us, all ordered cocktails, a few appetizers and a few entrees to try. Not bad at all. We will definitely be back and be recommending to everyone read more

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I came here for my birthday and my server James was amazing, the ambiance of the place is really cool and the food was delicious, we tried a little bit of everything from the happy hour menu and it was so good read more

AKA - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

We came to AKA as part of restaurant week and Cru provided excellent service and suggestions for a first timer. All of his suggestions were spot on especially the Surf N Turf roll as well as the Thai Me Up cocktail. We felt consistently taken care of, and had a wonderful time including the food and decor/ambience. The restaurant week menu was definitely "the best bang for our buck" just as Cru stated. I had the Chicken Kara-Age, Filet Mignon, and Ube Japanese Cheesecake. All dishes exceeded our expectations and am glad my fiance and I chose AKA for our date night. read more

AKA - Filet Mignon and Chicken Kara-Age - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

Had the miso soup and the bluefin poke bites. Both were real tasty and right amount of serving. Bluefin was nice and refreshing.

I feel like you pay for the ambiance here . That's about it. Service wasn't bad, other than the fact the waiter gave free shots to the couple next to us. The food though, was sad it was a set menu as when I booked it there was no saying it was a set menu. The food was just ok. The filet was sweet with the raspberry sauce and the chicken the bf had just tasted like any other curry butter chicken. The deserts tasted like they were just reheated You could get certain sushi rolls if you did ask, but not their entire menu. Not worth it at all. read more

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Overall, not great. The place smelled like a bar (gross chemicals), the sushi rolls weren't that good, the service was pretty horrible. Definitely would not recommend. read more

Came to Aka in Gaslamp for a friend's birthday and had an awesome experience. We had a group of 9 and sat at the bar, and the staff handled it really well. Everyone was attentive, friendly, and quick without making us feel rushed. Shout out to Kelsey and Giacomo! The drinks were great, the vibe was perfect for a birthday night out, and the food was honestly better than expected. Everything came out fresh and tasted amazing. Overall, great service, great atmosphere, and a perfect spot for a group. Definitely coming back. read more

Such a great experience!!! had the yummiest food and the nicest staff. highly recommend! read more

AKA - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

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Not really a fan of this place even though I really try to like it. Its definately on the expensive side for sushi and looks like everyone there was there for a special occasion. Regardless on the price, the food was just okay. The best thing there was the poke. The presentation looked good. The server was very nice. I couldnt see myself going here again, the price really doesn't justify the taste of the food. It is a fusion restaurant but the combination of the ingredients just didn't match up. Even the drinks were a lil off. read more

AKA - Poke - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

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Food is good, service is good, ambiance is good too. We will definitely come back if we are here in the area.

We came to AKA with a group of 11 to celebrate a bachelorette and unfortunately had a really disappointing experience. Our server told our group he was bringing out celebratory shots "on the house" for the bride. Because of that, we all participated in the moment thinking it was a kind gesture from the restaurant. However, when the bill came, we realized we had actually been charged $90 for those shots, including mocktail shots for the two pregnant members of our group. When something is clearly presented as complimentary and then appears on the bill, it feels extremely misleading. On top of that, the menu states there is an automatic 18% gratuity for large parties, yet our bill included 20% gratuity instead. We emailed and called the restaurant afterward to give them the opportunity to address the situation privately, but the manager has still not responded, which is disappointing. No one answers the phone either and no one responds to the multiple voicemails we have left. We understand mistakes can happen, but communication and accountability matter--especially when guests raise a concern after the fact. I would encourage future guests to double-check their bill carefully, particularly if anything is presented as "on the house." read more

The only explanation for any bad review of this place must be from competitors. The food here is INCREDIBLE! Went last weekend for my bachelorette and they made me feel so special. Food was beyond amazing, going back next week for my birthday! I'll actually take food pics this time. I was so in the moment! Also the place transforms into a club at night and it was the most fun we had the whole weekend. Best place downtown and my new fav! read more

AKA - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

We came to this club because it seemed like a great way to start the night. The decor was nice, and both the bouncers and bartenders were friendly, which we appreciated. However, our experience was completely ruined by one of the bottle service girls. There was a blonde staff member who pushed my friend while walking by with a bottle. My friend didn't say anything at first, assuming she was just trying to do her job. But then it happened again this time she wasn't even carrying anything and still pushed past her for no reason. At that point, my friend calmly told her she could simply say "excuse me" instead of pushing people. Instead of handling it professionally, the staff member escalated the situation and told security to kick us out. That kind of behavior is unacceptable. No employee should be putting their hands on guests, especially when it's completely unnecessary. Management seriously needs to address this and remind their staff to treat customers with basic respect. Honestly, now it makes sense why there wasn't a line to get in. With service like that, it's not a place worth spending your time or money. read more

Pros: The staff is all very friendly The environment is beautiful The sushi was good Cons: The music was so loud I couldn't even talk to the person sitting right next to me The sound system was not mixed properly so the loud music was grating at certain parts The chairs by the window where we were seated are so uncomfortable to sit on because they are rounded that I kept feeling like I was going to slide off. I am short also, and with no good foot rest that lined up for me. It was incredibly difficult to stay in my seat It's pretty expensive for what you get This place is getting two stars from me because I really have no interest in going back ever. I would give it one star except for the staff was really great and attentive. read more

Beautifully themed restaurant. Touristy. Sushi isn't great. Hate that they also try to start tipping at 20% + plus some bs service charge which makes me not want to come back. read more

Sushi was good and portion was good! Service was good shout to James! They also take photo and placed it in picture frame for $20.00 it was good. read more

AKA just opened in November and finally had a chance to stop in. I got a seat at the bar at the tail end of happy hour, and ordered the, garlic edamame with butter soy ($5) - it was very flavorful and generous portion. Then salmon and avocado roll ($11) - did not love this - was a bit slimy and too fishy. I initially ordered the Geisha Rita, but it was just too acidic for me today, so my friendly bartender let me switch it out for the dirty chai martini, which was very tasty. Liked the kind of funky but still comfortable ambience. Wish the sushi had been better. read more

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I've seen instagram posts of this restaurant and was excited to visit and take photos of the decor, specifically of the shrine (pillars) from Kyoto. We arrived at 6pm on an early Friday evening, and there were only 2 tables aside from ours. As the night progressed, the restaurant was starting to get somewhat busy. We ordered a bunch of items to share. Ming Sling drink (3/5): tasted alright, but my drink had soo much ice and wasn't filled all the way (see photo, as I hadn't even taken a sip). Yellowtail scallion (3.5/5): good and fresh, but overly priced. Rock Shrimp COCO MAYO (3/5): not bad, but the shrimp were small and also quite pricey. Chicken Kara-Age (3/5): alright. Australian Wagyu drunken noodle (1/5): beautiful presentation, but super bland and flavorless. The meat didn't taste like Wagyu... Would NOT recommend. Dry dan dan Noodle (2/5): better than the Wagyu drunken noodles, but still bland. Kung pao SSC Roll (1/5): so dry. It tasted like store bought sushi. Also would NOT recommend. Fatty tuna (Sashimi) (2.5/5): mushy; didn't taste fresh. The following are some of the better items compared to what's been mentioned. Black Cod (4/5): super tender, per usual. I love black cod for its rich and buttery taste. This dish was sweet and flavorful. Lamb Chops (3.75/5): pretty good. I also enjoyed the green curry it came with. However, one of the chops I had was very tough and inedible. Filet Mignon (3.75/5): pretty good. Quite tender. 20% gratuity was automatically applied to our party of 8. They also added a 3.95% service surcharge. I made a reservation online 6 weeks in advance, and they emailed me asking to select a pre fixe menu and to provide my credit card information to secure our res. I replied to their email 5 TIMES (not exaggerating) and didn't receive a single response! TERRIBLE COMMUNICATION. I was worried we wouldn't have a secured dinner reservation due to their lack of communication... hope they get it together. Anyways, nice atmosphere and decor, but substandard food. Pricing is what you'd expect for downtown. Our server, Mando (?) I believe was his name, was awesome. read more

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Five stars for the service! Troy was our server and he was fantastic. He made sure our food and drinks arrived quickly and checked on us just the right amount of times. Great food and even better service. read more

AKA - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

Anniversary dinner before going out in Gaslamp. We had very tasty food from, the Spicy garlic to the pad Thai. The drinks were also very tasty. Our server Kelsey was super cool, very fun, friendly and attentive They have good music in the background keeping the vibes going all night, with a surprise on your bday! Overall great experience, highly recommend read more

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we went here for the first time for my birthday weekend and everything was fabulous. The ambience was great very upbeat and vibrant energy. The service was excellent. The food was excellent and everything was good. We'll definitely be back next time we come to San Diego. Roberto was an extremely good waiter very attentive, great personality very friendly. We loved him. He made our experience extra special. We will definitely be back. read more

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Connected with friend while she was in town for a conference. This was minutes from her Airbnb. The service was good and they had a good selection of asian dishes. The speciality cocktails were nice and but the best part of the meal was the server. He was attentive and offered up great suggestions for dinner. read more

We finally came last Friday. Since we were going all over Gaslamp we just. Same for drinks and an appetizer. We've been coming to this location for many years. Since it was Searsucker and Lavo. They have an outstanding location and bar. We get there close to 5:30 and sit at the bar. We ordered a Azaela mocktail and Geisha-Rita. The mocktail had an apple sort of taste to it. My wife liked it. The Geisha-Rita tasted just like a jalapeño Rita that Searsucker used to serve. It was very delicious and had a good amount of heat to it. We ordered the Filet Mingon Potsticker's. I am used to Boston/NY style which have a thicker dough. These are thin dough but are very good. The filling reminded me of exactly on how a potsticker filling should be. Couldn't taste the Filet Mingon however it was delicious. The bartenders were great and very informative. Pablo took care of us and was very nice and quick to serve. We were there for about an hour and it was still kinda dead. They told me it picks up later in the night. That makes sense since it's nightclub oriented. The place is very well designed. It will remind of you of Tao in Vegas. It is very instagramic lol. The bathroom was beautiful as well. Almost didn't want to leave. The damage for a couple drinks and Potstickers was close to $60. We will be back for sure. read more

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Visiting San Diego over the weekend and AKA was one of the highlights during our stay. We didn't have reservations and still got seated immediately. Our server Marco was very pleasant and the food was excellent. We ordered the Mango Yellowtail sushi and ended up ordering a second round of the sushi it was so fresh and delicious. read more

Came on a week night and got the Karaage, Dan Dan noodles, Braised short ribs and miso black cod. The karaage was very crispy and juicy, the ponzu aioli was a tasty dip. The Dry Dan Dan noodles were my favorite item of the evening. The noodles were very chewy (in a good way) which I've found only in a handful of restaurants. it came topped with a flavorful ground pork, the noodles were coated lightly with a cream (maybe mayo) based sauce. The cucumbers added a nice freshness and crunch which was a nice contrast to the chewy noodles. The short ribs were very tender and delicious, and the mashed potatoes were creamy, but I didn't really feel it had much of an asian influence despite the black bean curry sauce. Short ribs are usually my go to dish, I'd still recommend them if you're craving short ribs but they don't have a strong asian influence. Maybe if it came on some sort of rice like asian influenced risotto or something. The miso black cod was also good, very tender and moist. Pretty standard at any high end asian place these days. AKA did a good job of it. The place is modern and new, AKA means red in Japanese and the place has a red backlit shelf which reminds me of TAO in Las Vegas. The hallway to the restrooms look like the gates of the iconic Fukushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto. Its a definite photo op that's IG or FB worthy. Service was friendly and attentive, the place is new and modern. Being downtown parking can be tough and the prices a little higher than normal but not unexpected in the Gaslamp. read more

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I like that they call themselves a boutique - gives your t-shirt that bourgeois feeling. Fantastic assortment of shirts, hoodies, patches, tumblers, doo-dads, etc. Some of the funniest North Park themed t-shirts can be found here - like the one on 'Urban Camping'. Friendly staff too - really helpful with ideas for that ultimate print job. And reasonably priced - I think most of the local businesses uses AKA - which means their rep is solid. Like the 5 star rating I'm leaving. read more

Very fun, almost club like atmosphere. Our sever provided excellent service and helped us celebrate a friend's birthday properly; complete with handheld f Fireworks (of sorts). The food was all delicious and sake was very good. read more

I went on Sunday around 7pm. The service was quick. Ambiance was beautiful. I had the Bluefin Tuna roll. It was fine. I was expecting much more flavor in the sushi rice. The fish was fresh. I'll add that i loved their Sriracha! read more

AKA - Bluefin Tuna Roll - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California

beautiful japanese themed bar/restaurant, reminds me of john wick 4 vibes. love the red lit bar the bathrooms are very well done, beautiful decor. very chill bar before the music turns up read more

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Drinks were ok, sushi was mid. The bartender, I think his name is Christian, totally made it worth the visit and likely the reason I'll come back. read more

Came here for my birthday and ordered the filet mignon medium rare. Unfortunately, it was cooked medium instead. For a cut like filet, that difference matters -- medium rare should be tender and juicy. This was noticeably overcooked and much drier than expected. I was really disappointed, especially for a special occasion. At this price point, attention to temperature is basic execution. Hoping they tighten this up, because it took away from what should have been a great night. read more

Amazing service by Cru and the rest of the staff! He understood the vibe for our friend's bachelorette party and kept the energy up all night! read more

I loved my time at AKA last time I went but this one employee I met Tommy (a blonde young Woman), is hands down one of the best bartenders at AKA. She's incredibly friendly, attentive, and makes sure you're comfortable from the moment you sit down. Whether it's drinks or food, she's always on top of your order and checks in to make sure everything is perfect. She handles busy rushes like a pro and still gives excellent, respectful service to everyone. If you're at AKA, you'll definitely want Tommy taking care of you, she makes the experience so much better. Ambiance is truly amazing and worth going into AKA! read more

AKA - Asian Fusion Near Me - San Diego, California