The San Francisco International Wine Competition disqualified Russian wines due to U.S. sanctions, reflecting the larger context of global solidarity amid Russia-Ukraine tensions.

Cobb Wines opened its first tasting room in Healdsburg as it celebrates its 25th year, aiming to support sales and offer an accessible location to customers.

Colibrí Mexican Restaurant in Baldwin Park closed after nearly 20 years, with the owners choosing not to renew their lease, leaving a void in the local dining scene.

Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias hosted a Christmas comedy show as a food drive for the San Antonio Food Bank, drawing a large turnout and conversations on social issues.

Winston's opened a Bee Cave location at Hill Country Galleria, serving fresh-roasted coffee, donuts, Italian sandwiches and Neapolitan-style pizzas. The spot launched in early December.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai brings a star-studded roster to Kona this Monday for Taste of the Islands. Tickets are $225 for adults and $115 for keiki.

A child was sexually assaulted by a registered sex offender at Orangewood Elementary School in Phoenix, leading to criticisms of public safety measures.

Cafe Olivia filed to open a 4,436‑sq‑ft cafe at 2400 Dallas Parkway in Plano, with work set to start Feb. 1, 2026 and a late‑summer opening anticipated.

Longtime Hartz Chicken on Pinemont will close Dec. 31 after the landlord declined to renew the lease; marketing materials for the adjacent parcel list a supermarket and apartments.

Longtime all-you-can-eat sushi spot Sushi Delight (1946 Market Street) has announced it will close after more than 25 years.

Em Café quietly opened Dec. 12 on Spencer Highway in Deer Park, serving Vietnamese phin coffee, matcha and boba. A grand-opening date hasn't been announced.

Smoothie King opened a second New Braunfels location at 654 S. Walnut Ave., expanding the local franchise operated by Paul Flores.

Bankhead Brewpub will close its West 7th Fort Worth location on Dec. 30 after the owners accepted an offer for the property. The brewery says it plans to scout new Fort Worth locations in 2026 while keeping other sites open.