Casa Nama, a new Japanese fusion restaurant from JalMex Restaurant Group, is slated to open in late 2026 at East End Market in Raleigh. The concept will take over the former Giorgios Epicurean Market space at 2020 Progress Court, Suite 150, owner Salvador Alvarez recently confirmed in an interview with WhatNow Charlotte.
According to a recent report by The News & Observer, Casa Nama is planned as a larger, full-service counterpart to Yatai, another concept from JalMex Restaurant Group. While Yatai serves sushi rolls, ramen, dumplings, and tacos, owner Alvarez told the publication that Casa Nama will feature an expanded menu that adds ceviches to the mix. The restaurant will occupy approximately 5,000 square feet at East End Market.
Casa Nama will move into the space formerly occupied by Giorgios Epicurean Market, which opened in 2024. Earlier this year, owner Giorgios Bakatsias announced plans to close the concept for renovations temporarily. However, The News & Observer later reported that the space would transition to Casa Nama, while GEM is expected to relocate to a new location in the future.
Alvarez oversees a growing portfolio of restaurant concepts through JalMex Restaurant Group, including Yatai, La Buena Vida, La Victoria Cocina, Gringo a GoGo, and Chido Taco + Tequila. The company operates several concepts across the Triangle region, spanning a variety of cuisines and dining styles.
