BIRMINGHAM, Ala — Nori Thai and Sushi, a beloved Asian fusion restaurant at 4704 Cahaba River Road, has closed its dining room after a federal immigration raid left much of its immigrant staff detained and the city’s vibrant food scene reeling. The ICE operation earlier this week targeted Nori, an established spot known for its classic Thai curries, sushi rolls, and welcoming atmosphere—a favorite among locals and visitors for more than a decade.
Founded in 2013 by Putu Arsana, Nori began as a humble Thai eatery and quickly expanded into a larger Asian fusion restaurant, marked by its innovative sushi bar and skilled staff who brought international culinary expertise to the Magic City. Chef Yong Yi, once a Sushi Master at Nobu Hard Rock in Las Vegas, helped shape Nori’s reputation for authenticity and quality, giving Birmingham residents a taste of renowned global flavors in a cozy neighborhood setting.
The staff—many of whom were immigrants—have played a crucial role in Nori’s rise, reflecting the influence of diverse cultures on Birmingham’s evolving restaurant scene. Community support is central to Nori’s ethos. Following the raid, management announced that the restaurant will offer only takeout and delivery with a limited menu, and thanked patrons for solidarity during a difficult period that underscores ongoing tensions over local immigration enforcement.
The restaurant’s closure strikes at the heart of Birmingham’s immigrant food workforce—a reality not lost on its regulars, who continue to send messages of support from across the city. The incident invites renewed discussion on immigration and labor, as Birmingham’s restaurants rely heavily on immigrants for their unique flavors and hospitality—a truth made painfully clear whenever enforcement intervenes.