Kaishin Izakaya Opens in Downtown Birmingham on South Old Woodward

Kaishin Izakaya has opened at 176 South Old Woodward Avenue in downtown Birmingham in the space where Sushi Japan previously operated. The restaurant is listed as an active business in the Downtown Birmingham directory, and its own website is taking reservations and online orders, confirming the opening for families who have been watching the location.

An izakaya is a Japanese gastropub, and the menu at this location follows that style, with small plates designed for sharing alongside a full lunch and dinner service. Official hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

South Old Woodward has been adding dining options over the past couple of years, and Kaishin Izakaya brings a different cuisine to the stretch a short walk from the downtown's shops and parks. For families, another sit-down restaurant with a weekday lunch service on that block makes the downtown easier to use for an afternoon meal as well as a planned dinner out.

Sources: Kaishin Izakaya official website (kaishinizakaya.com) and the Downtown Birmingham business directory (downtownbirmingham.com). Information verified September 15, 2026.