Birmingham, Alabama, July 31, 2025
News Summary
A new culinary hotspot is coming to Birmingham, Alabama on August 1. Johin’na will delight diners with a unique blend of Japanese and Southern flavors, crafted by skilled chefs Ashley and Amber Jackson. The restaurant features intimate dining areas and a diverse menu including signature items like sweet tea soy sauce and sake sangria. With a stylish atmosphere, Johin’na promises an unforgettable dining experience for locals and visitors alike.
Birmingham Welcomes Johin’na: A New Japanese-Southern Fusion Restaurant Opening August 1
Exciting things are brewing in Birmingham, Alabama as a brand-new dining spot gears up for its grand opening. Mark your calendars for Friday, August 1, because Johin’na (pronounced jo-heen-na) is ready to blend the best of Japanese and Southern cuisine under one roof! Nestled at 2002 2nd Ave. North, this eatery is not just a restaurant; it’s a fusion experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
A Menu Inspired by Life’s Adventures
The incredible menu at Johin’na is crafted by head chef Ashley Jackson and her sister Amber, both proud Alabama natives. Their love for food has been influenced by their experiences living in diverse cities like Bali, London, and Los Angeles. From frog legs to alligator, these culinary adventurers have tried it all, and now they’re bringing those bold flavors to Birmingham.
What can you expect? The menu features a delightful mix of Southern soul and global flavors. Dishes incorporate local ingredients such as fried okra and Alabama white sauce into Asian-inspired creations. One standout item to look out for is the sweet tea soy sauce crafted with Milo’s Sweet Tea, a beloved local brand.
Dining Areas with Personal Touches
Johin’na is designed with intimacy and style in mind. It boasts three distinct dining areas: the Sakura Room, Pagoda Room, and Kurama Room. Each space has its own unique décor, making every visit feel special. For instance, the Sakura Room features an enchanting color-changing cherry blossom tree as its stunning centerpiece, creating an atmosphere that feels both elegant and relaxed.
A Cozy Yet Chic Dining Experience
With the goal of making each meal memorable, every corner of Johin’na pays tribute to the bond of sisterhood between Ashley and Amber. Elements like the Pisces zodiac symbol can be found in the design, reflecting their personal stories. Moreover, Chef de Cuisine Kevin Whitmore brings his experience from renowned restaurants like Bistro 218 and Hot & Hot Fish Club, helping to bring the vision of Johin’na to life.
Signature Cocktails and More
The drink menu at Johin’na is equally impressive. Guests have already raved about the sake sangria, a refreshing blend featuring fresh fruit such as peach, plum, lychee, and sparkling wine. As the reservations for opening day are already fully booked, it’s clear that the excitement for this culinary hotspot is palpable.
Unique Decor Highlights
As you stroll through the restaurant, you’ll notice eye-catching details like parasols hanging from the lobby ceiling and mirrored tile bathrooms, adding to the visual allure. Additionally, traditional Japanese art murals elegantly decorate the walls, ensuring that every meal feels immersive and distinctly unique.
Join the Excitement
Whether you’re considering a romantic date night, a cozy birthday celebration, or just a casual outing, Johin’na promises to deliver a refined dining experience that perfectly marries Japanese cuisine with Southern hospitality. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other in Birmingham!
FAQs about Johin’na
What is Johin’na?
Johin’na is a new Japanese-Southern fusion restaurant located in Birmingham, Alabama.
When does Johin’na open?
The official opening date is Friday, August 1.
Where is Johin’na located?
Johin’na is situated at 2002 2nd Ave. North, Birmingham, Alabama.
Who created the menu for Johin’na?
The menu was created by chefs Ashley Jackson and Amber.
Can you reserve a spot for dining?
Yes, reservations for the opening day are fully booked.
What kind of atmosphere can I expect at Johin’na?
Johin’na features a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere with beautifully designed dining areas.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Opening Date | Friday, August 1 |
| Location | 2002 2nd Ave. North, Birmingham, Alabama |
| Dining Areas | Sakura Room, Pagoda Room, Kurama Room |
| Signature Menu Items | Pork belly bao buns, sweet tea soy sauce, sake sangria |
| Decor Highlights | Color-changing cherry blossom tree, parasols, mirrored tile bathrooms |
| Atmosphere | Stylish and relaxed |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Eatery Johin’na Opens in Downtown Birmingham
Birmingham Welcomes the Upscale Japanese Restaurant Johin’na
Birmingham Welcomes Eight New Restaurants and Bars
New Dining Options Abound in Birmingham with Multiple Openings
Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Inside Downtown Birmingham’s Newest Dining Experience, Johin’na Opens August 1
- Bham Now: First Look of Johin’na – A Peek Inside the Upcoming Japanese-Southern Fusion Restaurant
- Bham Now: Two New Fine Dining Restaurants One Step Closer to Opening in Birmingham
- Wikipedia: Japanese Cuisine
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Southern Cuisine
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
