Japanese sushi chain wins approval for first US outlet, in the Back Bay

The Boston Licensing Board today approved a proposal by Food & Life Companies of Osaka to open Sakabayashi Sushi Tavern at 665 Boylston St. in Copley Square, where the b.good used to be.

The chain runs more than 1,100 sushi restaurants across Asia; the Back Bay outlet will be its first in the U.S.

Using the beer-and-wine license it's buying from the Clover Food Lab in the Longwood Medical Area, manager Rui Higuchi will orchestrate a menu of both sushi and related Japanese foods along with sake and other alcoholic beverages. In addition to indoor seating, the new restaurant will have 16 outdoor seats on a seasonal patio.

The Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay formally did not oppose the proposal.