IMG 4725 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — The focal point of the Sakura Room is a massive light-up tree in the center of the dining room. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

Starting Friday, Aug. 1, downtown Birmingham will welcome a unique newcomer to the culinary scene.

Johin’na, located at 2002 2nd Ave. N., offers an upscale Asian-cuisine dining option that embraces the culture of the South. The restaurant offers sleek, modern vibes in addition to its mouth-watering menu.

To check out the menu, scroll to the bottom of the article.

Johin’na brings a refined, intentionally curated dining experience to downtown Birmingham. The concept combines the technique and precision of Japanese cuisine with the warmth and service style of Southern hospitality. From sushi and chef-led tastings to design and presentation, every element is focused on quality, detail and guest experience.
Johin’na Chef Ashley Jackson

IMG 4721 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — A giant mural depicting a serene pagoda nestled under twilight skies is where the Pagoda Room got its name. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

IMG 4736 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — The Pagoda Room has a floor-to-ceiling view of 2nd Avenue and a sushi bar. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

There are three main dining spaces, each with its own atmosphere: the Sakura Room, the Pagoda Room and the Kurama Room. The walls of all three are plastered with warm, vibrant murals inspired by traditional Japanese art.

When you first walk in, look up! You’ll see a rainbow of parasols (paper umbrellas) adorning the ceiling of the lobby. Small details like this are everywhere in the restaurant. Even the bathrooms have a unique flair—the walls are entirely mirrored tile.

IMG 4714 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — The lobby of Johin’na has a prominent light-up sign of the restaurant logo, two aquariums and Japanese parasols lining the ceiling. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

To the left of the lobby is the Kurama Room, the coziest dining room of the three, facing 2nd Avenue. The dining room to the right is the Pagoda Room, also facing 2nd Avenue, which has a full sushi bar, neon lights and a giant mural of a pagoda nestled among a dreamscape of twilight skies.

IMG 4717 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — The coziest space of the three, the Kurama Room is perfect for larger parties that want to book a more private area. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

IMG 4728 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — This is just one of the murals that adorn the walls at Johin’na. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

The Sakura Room, the largest dining room, features a gorgeous light-up cherry blossom tree with long, looming branches as the center focal point. There is a circular marble bar surrounding the tree, and velvet banquettes and high-top tables are around the perimeter of the room.

This new dining spot is sure to offer an unforgettable dining experience, but don’t just take our word for it. Explore Johin’na’s cuisine and aesthetics in person starting Aug. 1. Online reservations for opening day are already booked, so act fast if you want to be one of the first in the door.

IMG 4707 First look of Johin’na: Take a peek inside the upcoming Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant — Johin’a is located at 2002 2nd Ave. N. in The Frank. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

Johin’na: 205-202-3409 | Website | Instagram | Facebook
Address: 2002 2nd Ave. N.
Lunch hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Brunch served on Sundays)
Dinner hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM