Windfall Group is converting 174 N. Michigan Ave into Pacifica on Michigan, leasing space to Genki, Kanpai Hot Pot and Velvet Taco with openings targeted for 2026–27.

A new Arlington sandwich shop tucks an independent bookstore behind a secret shelf, pairing grilled cheese and PB&J with local indie authors. The hybrid spot blends comfort food and a cozy, fairy-lit book nook.

Owner Adrian Martinez has filed Chapter 7 for Smoke BBQ + Skybar, with court papers showing nearly $2.7M in claims from landlords, lenders and tax authorities. The downtown rooftop's future is now unclear.

Piada is bringing its chef-run fast-casual to San Antonio with two planned sites at Huebner Oaks and in Schertz. Opening dates have not been announced.

Orange Cow Burgers opened at Eastlake and The Pizza Joint is aiming to open nearby, bringing two well-known local spots to El Paso’s east side.

Shake Shack is taking over the former Sushi Loca in Centennial Hills, replacing a neighborhood sushi spot that served the area for 17 years.

HeyTea quietly opened two Houston shops last year; the Coconut Mango Boom and brown-sugar milk tea have already become local favorites. Lines still form, especially on weekends.

Jefferson Park’s Paterno's Pizza was sold to the Patel family, but the Paternos and longtime staff will stay on to preserve the menu and neighborhood feel.

A retro burger bar opened in SoMa with smashburgers, poutine and a $23 burger-and-beer goal.

Fukumi Restaurant Group plans to open Pier 50 Sushi and a ramen spot called Fukumi Chaya in the former Davis City Hall at 226 F St, the Sacramento Business Journal reports.

Atomic Hospitality is now operating VU Rooftop at McCormick Place, has made soft menu and ambience tweaks and installed James Beard winner Debbie Gold to lead the kitchen.

Bojangles is opening a new location in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, marking its return to New York City after decades, with plans to open 20 more locations in the region over the next decade.

Missouri DESE's report highlights public education progress in 2025, with improved school performance, teacher retention, and student assessment strategies. The state's historic budget supports this success with significant funding increases.