H&H Bagels
H&H Bagels opening first location in Raleigh-Durham area, owned by franchise owners Michael and Amanda Klein who plan to open five North Carolina locations. Features classic NYC bagels with variety of spreads and sandwiches.
Pizza Restaurant at Highland Brewing
Highland Brewing will debut an in-house pizza concept in 2026, featuring New Haven’ish pies, hearty sandwiches, salads and other offerings at their 40-acre property seven minutes from Downtown Asheville
South Block
South Block is opening its first Charlotte location at The Bowl at Ballantyne, offering handcrafted acai bowls, smoothies, and fresh juices. This is the brand’s first expansion outside the Washington D.C. area. A second location in Plaza Midwood is planned for spring 2026.
Republica Restaurant + Lounge
Dominican and Latin fusion restaurant reopening after temporary closure due to border patrol operations. Soft opening scheduled for January 14, 2026 at 4 p.m.
Shinjuku Station
All-you-can-eat revolving sushi bar opening at Grande Promenade shopping center in University City. Will be second NC location after High Point, with plans for Raleigh and Winston-Salem locations.
Franko’s Prime
Classic American steakhouse serving cuts such as ribeyes and filets, along with seafood and an extensive domestic wine list. Located at Lafayette Village in North Raleigh.
Big Cat
Multi-concept restaurant collaboration between acclaimed Raleigh culinary minds including owners of Ajja, Mala Pata, and Locals Seafood. Will combine restaurant, bar and market under one roof as a community gathering spot.
Girls with Dough
Pizza restaurant planning to open a new location in downtown Wilmington in the spring. The original location opened in 2021 and will be featured on ‘America’s Best Restaurants’ YouTube show.
Frenchy’s La Cave
Second location of Frenchy’s Sip and Shop wine bar, featuring expanded cellar program and ‘Paris then’ atmosphere with dark woods and cozy design in 1,000 square foot space
Super Chix
Super Chix franchise location opening in Morrisville, featuring chicken sandwiches, tenders, salads, and frozen custard. Corner unit in shopping center with large patio and lots of natural light. Part of planned Triangle area expansion.