2024
YAYA is an Asian canteen in London specialising in Chinese fen noodles and Japanese sushi. Inspired by Southeast Asia's shitang (食堂) culture, YAYA showcases a variety of authentic, affordable street food.
The design features a vibrant clash of bold blue and red interiors, complemented by handcrafted menus that capture the essence of Southeast Asian street food with a contemporary London twist.
The layout includes a tiled furniture unit that houses both sushi and drinks fridges, topped by a red timber-framed lightbox above the open bar counter for self-ordering and cooking. The Terrazzo-effect rubber flooring enhances the delightful interior while meeting weatherproof requirements for the seating area.
The hand-drawn menu, with its bold typographic logo and playful illustrations, engages a diverse audience from the street level. It resonates with the Chinese community and appeals to local Londoners, blending seamlessly with the lively atmosphere of Fitzrovia.