Former Babalu space to be replaced by new Asian restaurant in Lakeview – Bham Now

Author Irene Richardson - October 24, 2020October 24, 2020UMAMI, a new sushi and Thai restaurant, will occupy the space previously housed by Babalu. Photo via Jacob Blankenship for Bham Now

Lakeview has the drinks, the dancing and now the area will have a staple weve all been missing. The owners of Nori Thai and Sushi and Shikiare moving into the 29Seven mixed-use development with plans to open a new Asian restaurant, UMAMI.

The restauranteurs partnered withRetail Specialists Lyndsy Yim to find the ideal spot for UMAMI. Its new home is the former space of Babalu. The Mexican restaurant. which specialized in tapas and small plates, closed in March of this year.

While we were sad to wave goodbye, we cant help but be excited to hear the news something delicious is filling the space (and our stomachs).

The Lakeview area has been missing an Asian concept and UMAMI fits perfect into our overall strategy to bring unique concepts to the development.

The joint Thai and sushi restaurant is set to be a hit and were already texting the group chat for dinner plans. Have you eaten at Nori or Shikki before? I think its safe to say we can trust the talent from those kitchens will be carry over to Lakeview.

But, its just the beginning for what Retail Specialists, the local real estate firm who owns the property, envisions for the growing neighborhood. The team recognizes Lakeview as a unique part of Birmingham that welcomes families and young professionals alike. So, their focus aims to cater to both sets of people.

Our focus is on bringing concepts that will bring consumers to 29-7 during the day and after work during the weekwe want it to be a destination seven days a week

Lakeview is in such a great part of Birmingham positioned closed to Avondale and Downtown. Its perfect for families during the day to have lunch, but poised for happy hours and nightlife as well for young professionals.

Lakeview has been on a roll lately and it doesnt seem like thats going to stop any time soon. The Purple Onion brought its Mediterranean eats to the area just this month. Also, Magic City Wellness moved into space previously occupied by Baptist Health Systems.

Not every addition has been accompanied by a roof and four walls. Crosstown scooters made Lakeview go mobile with its motorized scooters that are now available at Nails Convenience Store.

While we not-so-patiently wait for UMAMI to open, swing by Nori Thai and Sushi or Shiki for takeout or dine-in and get a preview of what we might see on the menu. If theres one thing Im sure can solve anything, its a bowl of Panang curry.

Related

Excerpt from:
Former Babalu space to be replaced by new Asian restaurant in Lakeview - Bham Now