Van Nuys favorite Sweet E’s is opening a Beverly Hills storefront on South Santa Monica Boulevard. The brand teased the move on Instagram; an opening date hasn’t been set.

Don Cuco is returning to Lancaster as Cuco’s Cantina, moving into a new Ave J8 storefront. Owners say they’re finalizing the menu and seeking an ABC permit.

Chaumont opened a 5,000‑sq‑ft Century City café with a full kitchen, expanded breakfast and lunch menus, and a growing plant‑based line. The new shop is the brand’s largest LA location.

Dragon Alley Coffee Shop has posted signage at 312 Santa Monica Blvd on the Third Street Promenade. Owners say the café will be cozy and community-focused but haven’t announced a date.

A shared taproom on Retro Row has locals waiting in line for Everywhere's approachable beers and seltzers.

Taco Bell Cantina filed permits to convert 318 Santa Monica Blvd into a restaurant and bar as the city loosens downtown chain restrictions. The application is an early step in a wider wave of national tenants eyeing the Promenade.

The Misfit will close its Santa Monica Clock Tower location on April 18 after 15 years. LGO Hospitality cites ownership turnover and downtown conditions and says it is searching for a new home.

Dallas investors bought Tapatío; the Saavedra family keeps a stake while the Vernon plant and staff remain central as the brand eyes national growth.

Simi Valley Brewing Company aims for a June opening at 20 W. Cochran, converting an 8,400‑sq‑ft former restaurant into a beer-forward taproom and barbecue kitchen.

Blu Jam Cafe is opening its first franchised location in North Hollywood this summer, bringing its signature Crunchy French Toast to Magnolia Boulevard. The new 2,200‑sq‑ft cafe is targeting a June–July 2026 debut.

Santa Monica and Westside chefs will serve signature bites at Masters of Taste on April 19, with 100% of ticket proceeds benefiting Union Station Homeless Services.

Crab N' Spice is opening at Cudahy Plaza (8017 Atlantic Ave., Suite 103); franchisee Kevin Maranan expects a spring opening for the seafood boil spot.

Everywhere plans a taproom in Union Station's Fred Harvey Room this spring, reviving the tile‑lined dining room after Homebound closed in 2024.