The Torres family has converted the former Applebee’s at Brier Creek into Cabo Mexican Cuisine, an upscale coastal‑Mexican spot with ceviche, steak and a marble bar.

Permit filings show Whataburger plans to convert a former Popeyes at 275 Smokey Park Highway into Asheville's first Whataburger; the application is under city review and no opening date was given.

Golden Corral’s Southern Pines test location for its Favorites fast‑casual concept has shut after about a year. The closure raises questions about whether the chain will scale the prototype.

Spazio Vino & Cucina launched a Roman‑inspired event space in Holly Springs for private parties, corporate gatherings and chef‑led classes, now accepting reservations.

An unnamed restaurant has signed a lease for Mandolin’s former Hayes Barton spot and aims to open this fall. Renovations are already under way at the Fairview Road corner.

Jaggers has filed a $2.6M permit to build a 3,500‑sq‑ft restaurant at 1915 Hampton Inn Court, the former Twin Peaks near Hanes Mall. The move extends the brand’s North Carolina expansion.

Tyler Helikson’s new fast-casual Churp is headed to Olde Raleigh Village, offering customizable bowls and a bento-style kids menu with a late-summer to early-fall target.

H&H Bagels will open at Waverly Place in Cary, joining its Chapel Hill debut as the brand expands across the Triangle.

Herons, Fearrington House and Fairview Dining Room were among North Carolina restaurants honored in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2026 Star Awards, giving the Triangle a rare cluster of rated rooms.

Little Barb’s will close its stall at Durham Food Hall on May 31 as owner Barbara Nigro prepares to open a standalone storefront. She hopes to reopen by September.

Vic’s operator Michael Longo is opening Mikey’s Pizzeria at McNeill Pointe, a family-focused spot with arcade games, a kids’ pizza station and slices by the pie.

Dairi-O is planning a Sanford location at 127 Marketplace Drive with a fall 2026 target. The outparcel next to CVS will include a drive‑thru and the chain’s full menu.

Raleigh’s 42nd Street Oyster Bar remains closed more than a year after its March 2025 shutdown. Revival plans have yet to produce a firm reopening date.