The Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory is planning its third Charlotte-area location at Concord Mills mall. Filed building review plan on March 30, currently in discussions with Simon Properties for lease. Will convert existing retail space to full-service restaurant with commercial kitchen, bar and bakery service counter, plus new mall entry tower and covered patio.
La La Land Kind Café
TikTok-famous Dallas-based coffee chain known for bold yellow cups and Instagram-worthy lattes, with mission to hire and mentor foster youth. Taking over former Bitty & Beau’s Coffee space in South End’s Design Center of the Carolinas. First North Carolina location.
Chicken Salad Chick
First Durham location of the Southern fast-casual chain opening at Renaissance Center, taking approximately 3,100-square-foot space next to Moe’s Southwest Grill. Chain specializes in chicken salads with 12+ flavors.
Carrburritos
Carrburritos is relocating from its current Rosemary Street location to Carr Mill Mall after nearly 30 years. The new location will feature a full bar, larger kitchen space for catering business, and better parking access.
Rio 150 Mexican Restaurant
Rio 150 Mexican Restaurant will open in the former La Victoria Cocina Mexicana & Bar space near Exit 25 in Huntersville. This will be the brand’s fifth location in the Charlotte area. Family-owned restaurant with ties to Tijuana, known for large margaritas and traditional Mexican dishes.
Simpli City Cafe
New coffee cafe concept offering coffee, lattes, smoothies and foods with whole ingredients. Aims to bring fun, creative energy with high-energy atmosphere inspired by metropolitan life. Owned by Marian and Owen Hall.
Shuckin’ Shack
Shuckin’ Shack oyster bar franchise opening at Promenade on Providence, operated by first-time franchisees Dawn and Kevin Powers. Menu includes seafood plates, po-boys, oysters and fish ‘n chips.
Blue Skies Creamery
Ice cream parlor transitioning from food truck to first brick-and-mortar location, offering homemade craft ice cream with unique flavors and monthly new additions
Jaggers
Burger-and-shake brand Jaggers is planning a new drive-thru restaurant in a former Chick-fil-A location. Jaggers is under the Texas Roadhouse umbrella and features burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads and milkshakes.
7 Brew
510-square-foot standalone coffee shop operating as drive-thru. Part of expansion plan for 100 locations across Carolinas and Georgia.