Asian Buns, Ramen and Sushi Rolling Into Little Italy

The owners of several Japanese eateries are launching a new restaurant called Haru Mama in Little Italy. Local restaurateurs Jenny and James Pyo, who run Love Boat Sushi, Blue Ocean Robata and Sushi Bar, Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge and Pokewan, are taking over the Columbia Street space that last housed Sirena Cocina Latina, which shuttered in February. Mike Spilky of Location Matters represented the landlord in the transaction.

It will be a few months before Haru Mama opens, after a cosmetic remodel that will turn it into a modern and contemporary space that resembles its restaurant siblings. There will be a noodle bar plus traditional seating, and the all-day eatery will serve beer and wine.

Chef James Pyo is currently developing the menu, which will offer a range of ramen that should include some innovative twists and California-inspired additions. It will also focus on steamed hirata buns, folded around meat and other fillings, and possibly homemade dumplings. Signature appetizers from some of their other eateries will be available as well as an array of sushi.