Benkay, the popular Japanese restaurant that served sushi at 2 India St. for 20 years, will reopen in mid-September at 16 Middle St. in Portland, according to the restaurant’s owner, Hyon Kim of Falmouth.

Kim closed the India Street location for the summer while he builds out his new space on Middle Street. He has owned Benkay since 2008.

Kim, who is out of the country, said via email that he decided he’d rather own his own place than continue to pay rent year after year. So he bought the 3,200-square-foot first floor at 16 Middle St. and is transforming it into a “nice and new” restaurant space.

Benkay’s application for a new liquor license goes before the Portland City Council for approval Monday.

The new Benkay will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.


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