The Sunshine Bliss Brunchery
New brunch restaurant with drive-thru offering coffee, breakfast items, burgers and wings. Signs recently appeared but no opening timeline determined yet.
Dutch Country Table
New restaurant being built at former BP gas station and Hard Luck Café location. Will serve breakfast and lunch 6am-2pm, closed Wednesdays and Sundays. Features drive-thru with pre-ordering via app, event spaces upstairs. Owner also operates Dutch Country Inn next door.
Dutch Bros Coffee
Dutch Bros Coffee planning first Iowa locations with three drive-thru coffee shops in Des Moines metro area. First location taking over former Fazoli’s site, transforming into 986-square-foot drive-thru-only coffee shop. Part of company’s rapid 2026 nationwide growth strategy.
Moe’s Southwest Grill
First Des Moines metro location of Moe’s Southwest Grill, a fast-casual Mexican/Southwestern restaurant chain. Taking over former Dunkin’ Donuts location north of Merle Hay Mall.
Home2 Suites by Hilton
88-room Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel in downtown Mason City. Part of the River City Renaissance project. Extended stay hotel with full kitchens, free breakfast, and indoor pool. Will connect to The Music Man Square via skywalk.
Ford’s Garage
1920s-themed burger chain inspired by Ford Motor Company planning to open 3 Iowa locations. Franchisee considering Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and Davenport. Five-year timeline to open all three restaurants.
The Laughing Crab
Cajun seafood restaurant chain staging soft opening, known for midwestern classics and Asian-style seafood. Boiled seafood dishes served with sausage, corn and potatoes. Ribbon cutting planned for next week.
Kwik Star
New Kwik Star gas station opening in Knoxville, with a new Casey’s also planned for later in the year