Pepper Lunch, the Japanese-born experiential fast-casual restaurant, is preparing to open a location in San Diego at 1640 Camino Del Rio.
The new location is planned within the Mission Valley Shopping Center, according to documents submitted to the San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality. While an exact opening date has not been announced, the proposed restaurant will bring Pepper Lunch’s signature do-it-yourself teppanyaki experience, allowing customers to cook their own meats, rice, and vegetables at sizzling hot iron plates.
Pepper Lunch was founded in Tokyo in 1994 by chef Kunio Ichinose and has grown into a global franchise with more than 500 locations in 15 countries. The concept centers on a fast-casual dining experience in which meals are served on 500-degree plates and prepared by customers themselves, offering a hands-on, interactive experience.
The first San Diego location is getting ready to open in Kearny Mesa at 8322 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suites 103 and 104. That restaurant was selected for its proximity to international grocery stores, office workers, and a strong Asian dining presence. Pepper Lunch’s Mission Valley location similarly benefits from heavy traffic, nearby residential areas, and the shopping center’s diverse dining scene.
The menu features a range of teppanyaki-style dishes, including Beef Kimchi Pepper Rice, Salmon & New York Steak Combo, Chicken & Mushroom Pasta, and various vegetarian options. Meals are designed for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, with sides like miso soup, onion rings, and potato wedges, along with beverages including Pepsi products and fresh fruit drinks.
Pepper Lunch continues to expand its footprint in the United States, bringing its interactive, fast-casual dining style to new neighborhoods.
