Small Bar NoDa
Third location for Small Bar brand opening at The Joinery mixed-use development in Optimist Park. Will offer lunch, dinner, beer, cocktails, games, karaoke and live DJs.
Cielo Café
Coffee shop and cafe with Mexican pastries and Christian focus, owned by husband-and-wife team David Saldaña and Montse Vazquez. Taking over former La Costa Mexican restaurant location.
Asheville River Cabins
WorldHotels glamping resort expanding into experiential travel sector as part of nature-focused retreats. Part of WorldHotels’ 2026 growth plans with approximately 40 hotels in development.
Fratelli’s Italian Steakhouse
Fratelli’s Italian Steakhouse will undergo a revamp starting in February 2026, adding 2,100 square feet with two additional dining rooms and modern elevated design. Part of Crisp Hospitality Group’s portfolio.
Toastique
Toastique reopening under new ownership by Fit and Fresh Corp. after closing last year. Offers gourmet toasts, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices and craft coffee.
The Changebaker Place
Cafe expansion of Manolo’s Bakery serving Colombian espresso, coffee beverages, gelato, pastries and croissants. Located in former hair salon space. Inspired by documentary ‘The Changebaker’ about owner’s life.
Mad Dash
Mad Dash sandwich shop expanding from Market at 7th Street to full brick-and-mortar location at Truist Plaza. Will feature expanded sandwich menu, burgers, wraps, wings, and new breakfast menu with coffee options. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner including Saturday brunch.
Casa Azteca
Modern Mexican restaurant Casa Azteca is expanding with a second location in Uptown Charlotte, in the space formerly home to King’s Kitchen. The spot is still in early stages of development with no opening timeline announced.
Sugar Creek Brewing
Sugar Creek Brewing and restaurateur Martin Sprock purchased the former Cavendish Brewing space with plans for a Sugar Creek taproom, a barbecue restaurant called Dixon’s, and production facilities. Extensive construction is still ahead for the new site.
Laurel Market
Family-operated neighborhood market and deli relocating to a larger 3,500-square-foot space that will include a wine bar. Known for made-to-order sandwiches and salads.