Better Blend will open three Tampa Bay shops and launch two Blendmobile trucks, starting with a Brandon storefront this year.

AES Group has filed plans for an Arby’s at 1725 S McCall Rd in Englewood, a drive‑thru retrofit on an outparcel next to Publix and Bealls. The franchisee’s expansion would add another quick‑serve option to the busy McCall Road corridor.

Ziggi’s Coffee filed plan‑review paperwork for a drive‑thru at 3114 Hueland Pond Blvd in Wesley Chapel, joining other new retail and housing projects in the area.

Plan-review filings suggest Clark’s Coffee House is headed to 3875 Central Ave in St. Petersburg; the owner was not immediately reachable and no opening date is listed.

Yumsem Eats is moving from Fletcher Avenue to a Bruce B Downs storefront near USF, according to plan-review filings and the chain’s website. The company lists the new unit as "coming soon."

CAVA plans two Tampa Bay locations — one in Lutz and one at Bradenton's Marketplace at Heritage Harbour, expanding the chain's local footprint.

Café Seventy One at The Florida Aquarium launched in Tampa with ocean-friendly sourcing, tech to cut single-use waste, and community meal donations.

The Hob Nob Drive-In, a Sarasota landmark since 1957, is set to reopen this spring under new owners who promise classic burgers, shakes and community nights.

After months of repairs, Friendly Tavern reopened on the Redington Strip, bringing back karaoke, a tiki hut and a refreshed menu.

Gulf Pine Brewing converted the former Brū growler bar on Gunn Highway into a tiny Odessa microbrewery, opening regular hours in mid-January with rotating, taproom-first beers.

Chipotle opened a new Bradenton restaurant with a Chipotlane drive‑thru and roughly 30 new jobs. The chain is serving limited‑time Chicken al Pastor and high‑protein items.

Tampa-born Naked Farmer is opening in South End at 2725 South Blvd, bringing seasonal, locally sourced bowls and plates to Charlotte this month. The chain says the Charlotte spot is its first location beyond Florida.

The Hillsborough House of Hope Spring Fling Fashion Show, supported by Tampa Police, highlighted the organization's aid for women reintegrating post-incarceration.