A new multi-concept dining destination is on the horizon for Allston.
Set to open at 161 Brighton Ave—formerly home to Tavern in the Square—Jinjee, Sanbada, and Bomb Bada will unite three Korean-inspired experiences under one roof, according to a licensing board hearing page (via Boston Restaurant Talk).
Co-owner Juhun Kwak told What Now Boston that the 7,000-square-foot space will be divided into two main sections, with Jinjee occupying the larger portion. Inspired by the comforting, home-cooked meals of Grandma’s kitchen, the concept will offer premium Korean barbecue, specializing in high-end, dry-aged grilling.
The remaining third of the space will house Sanbada, a Korean restaurant named after the phrase ‘mountain and sea.’ The menu will showcase smoky, wood-fired fish alongside beef and spicy pork, served with a spread of traditional side dishes, rice, and soup. Designed to evoke the freshness of the outdoors, Sanbada will feature a bright, open atmosphere—“a very classic Korean setup,” according to Kwak.
As night falls, Sanbada will transform into Bomb Bada, a Korean bar and lounge with a moody, intimate ambiance. Named after the Korean word bombada—meaning ‘night sea’—this concept will focus on Korean dishes designed to complement specialty cocktails, providing a relaxed setting for evening diners.
Kwak is partnering with his former boss Henry Kim, the founder of Cap’t Loui, a casual seafood boil chain known for its Cajun-style Louisiana flavors. Together, the duo launched Cafe Weekend in 2022, serving casual eats for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Kwak and Kim hope to unveil their innovative dining experience on September 1, 2025.
