Defiant Brewing Co. in Pearl River will close at the end of March after 21 years. Longtime patrons are sharing memories as the taproom prepares for its final weeks.

Baka Umai has quietly opened the Ramen Den on NW 23rd, serving the full ramen menu with table service and a cocktail program rolling out soon. The Hawthorne kitchen will continue to supply noodles and broth.

Cups of Pasta in Sunnyside will give away a free cup of penne alla vodka on Saturday, March 14. The tiny shop's cups and "super cup" options have been drawing late‑night crowds since last fall.

Bloomington's Gables Bagels has opened its first Boone County storefront in Zionsville's Village District, delivering kettle‑boiled bagels, schmears and signature sandwiches.

The Manhattan burger brand has leased a Manhattan Avenue shop in Greenpoint; a franchisee will run the 1,580‑sq‑ft space, with a late‑summer 2026 opening planned.

After years of construction and permitting delays, Lilly’s Café has cleared approvals to open a second Magazine Street location, expanding the Vietnamese spot’s footprint and menu.

Little Ola's Biscuits pops up at Olamaie this Saturday and Sunday for a two-day SXSW run, serving fried-chicken, PB&J and other biscuit sandwiches until they sell out.

Chez Philippe at The Peabody earned AAA's Five Diamond designation, a rare upgrade that spotlights Memphis’ fine‑dining credentials. The honor recognizes years of service and a chef‑driven menu.

A 7 Brew drive‑thru is proposed for Prairie Centre in St. Charles, with city planners reviewing plans and a late‑August target if permits are approved.

McDonald’s says it will phase out self‑serve soda fountains across U.S. restaurants by 2032. Some locations have already switched to crew‑poured or automated systems.

Martin’s BBQ has signs up and interior work underway on Easy Street in Ocala; the Puerto Rican chain has not announced an opening date.

Smorgasburg reopens April 4–5 for its 16th season with 74 vendors and 22 newcomers — many immigrant-founded — across Williamsburg and Prospect Park.

Engine Room Pub & Bistro has opened in Salt Lake City's Ballpark, pairing family‑friendly daytime service with a curtain‑backed 21+ bar and a broad pub menu.