Last month, it was reported that an African-inspired market, café, and halal butcher shop was planning a Roxbury expansion, though the exact address was unknown at the time. Now, the secret’s out.
Nubian Markets co-founders Ismail Samad and Yusuf Yassin have confirmed that they’re opening a second location at 742 Columbus Ave, taking over the former site of Underground Cafe + Lounge near Northeastern University.
“This new space will allow us to continue our mission of celebrating and uplifting African Diaspora and Transatlantic food traditions,” Yassin said in an email to What Now Boston. “We plan to serve healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”
Founded in Nubian Square in 2023, Nubian Markets serves as an all-day café exploring the flavors of the African Diaspora, as well as a halal butchery and market stocked with goods from local Black-owned vendors. The café menu features must-try dishes like lamb couscous, jerk salmon salad, and crispy chicken + hoppin’ John.
The business is currently hiring café and grocery team members to help bring its thoughtfully curated food and community-centered mission to the neighborhood.
Construction is currently underway, with plans to launch the new space before the end of 2025. Follow @nubianmarkets on social media for grand opening updates.
