Fablewood
Southern steakhouse and gathering place located in historic Barrel Building, part of forthcoming Balladeer Hotel. Chef Freddy Lee will head the kitchen. Features full bar and dining room.
Wild Roses
Upscale cocktail-centric restaurant with small plates in former Pub at Gateway location. Will seat about 40 customers with bar area, tabletops, and lounge with Chesterfield furniture. Menu includes salmon, lamb chops, octopus and homemade meatballs. Owner is awaiting ABC license and going through inspections.
Fratelli’s Italian Steakhouse
Fratelli’s Italian Steakhouse will undergo a revamp and expansion, adding 2,100 square feet with two additional dining rooms and modern elevated design. Part of Crisp Hospitality Group’s portfolio.
Toastique
Toastique is reopening under new ownership by Fit and Fresh Corp. after closing last year. The restaurant offers gourmet toasts, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices and craft coffee at the Vantage South End location.
The Changebaker Place
Cafe expansion of existing Manolo’s Bakery, serving Colombian espresso, coffee beverages, gelato, pastries and croissants. Inspired by documentary ‘The Changebaker’ debuting this month.
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.