The Sleepy Whale
The Sleepy Whale, an Arizona craft beer bar and bottle shop, is expanding from its original Chandler location to a new Phoenix location at Uptown Plaza, taking over the former Huss Brewing Uptown Phoenix Taproom + Kitchen space. A liquor license application has been filed with the City of Phoenix. No exact opening date announced […]
Bojangles
Bojangles, a North Carolina-based Southern fried chicken chain known for Cajun-style fried chicken, scratch-made biscuits, and sweet tea, is opening its first Arizona location on July 14, 2026 near Val Vista Drive and Germann Road in Gilbert. The chain announced plans to build 20 restaurants in metro Phoenix. A second location is also in the […]
Spitz Mediterranean Street Grill
Spitz Mediterranean Street Grill is planning a new franchise location in Buckeye, AZ at 20640 W. Roosevelt St., operated by franchisee Jaskarn Singh. The fast-casual Mediterranean concept features wraps, gyros, bowls, and salads. No specific opening date announced; listed as ‘Opening Soon’ on company website.
Arcadia Pizza Company
Neighborhood pizzeria focused on Midwest-inspired styles including Chicago tavern-style and Detroit square pizzas. Approximately 1,200 sq ft with small dining room, primarily takeout/delivery with planned patio. Uses slow-fermented dough and traditional methods. Owner targeting late summer/early September debut. Awaiting city permit approval before construction begins; kitchen R&D targeted for end of July 2026.
Litchfield’s
Litchfield’s, the signature restaurant at The Wigwam Resort, closed June 1, 2026 for a major renovation and plans to reopen in early fall 2026. The upscale Southwestern restaurant features an exhibition kitchen, wood-fired steaks, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails. Owned and operated by JDM Partners. No specific reopening date announced yet.
Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila
Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila is opening its second Valley location in Chandler, AZ in August 2026. The concept, part of Backbar Hospitality Management, is known for tacos, margaritas, and 100+ agave spirits. The original Scottsdale location opened in 2007. Menu includes traditional Mexican dishes, signature tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and fresh-squeezed margaritas.
Hudson House
Dallas-based Vandelay Cos. has signed leases for two Phoenix-area locations of its East Coast-inspired Hudson House eatery. The company is also constructing Drake’s Hollywood in Scottsdale, expected to open later in 2026. Hunter Pond is founder, chairman and CEO of Vandelay Cos.
Turquoise Wine Bar
Franchise location of Turquoise Wine Bar, founded by Jen Sinconis and Laura Hernandez. Concept focuses on boutique/small-lot wines, small plates (salads, flatbreads, charcuterie, desserts), live weekend entertainment, and wine club memberships. No TVs; community-focused atmosphere. Located in Surprise City Center. Expected to open mid to late August 2026.
Fà-me Café
Fà-me Café, a locally owned breakfast and lunch restaurant founded by Maria and Ivan O’Farrill, is relocating from 4700 N. Central Ave. to a 3,600-square-foot ground-floor space at the 24th at Camelback office complex in Phoenix’s Biltmore neighborhood. The move is expected during Q4 2026, replacing Scramble which closed in September 2025. The café specializes […]
Ace Of Wingz
Ace Of Wingz is expanding to Tempe with its fifth Phoenix-area location and first in the East Valley. The wing concept, founded by Abion Acoy, is expected to open in August 2026. Construction is underway with regular social media updates being shared. Menu includes wings, loaded fries, chicken salad, mac and cheese, and chicken parmesan […]