State inspectors ordered eight Central Florida restaurants closed after finding rodents, roaches and sewage in inspections; most reopened only after fixes. Records name several affected eateries.

A Pennsylvania diner operator has opened Hot Spot Diner on Tyrone Boulevard, serving big breakfasts and Greek favorites. The new spot took over the former First Watch space.

Drive‑thru chain 7 Brew is planning a Sarasota County location as part of its Florida expansion.

Utah-based Costa Vida is opening its first Florida restaurant in Pinellas County, bringing its Baja-inspired quick-casual menu to the Tampa Bay area.

St. Pete chef Cameron Schneider’s Smash & Grab truck is rolling through Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco with smashburgers, bacon jam and lemon‑pepper fries.

Saucy by KFC has begun opening in Tampa, converting some KFC and PDQ sites and debuting in West Tampa with more Bay Area locations planned.

Just Salad has opened on West Neptune Street in South Tampa, adding chef‑designed salads, reusable‑bowl perks and a week of grand‑opening deals.

Aqua Tequila's Parrish outpost opened Friday in Creekside Commons, bringing margaritas, street tacos and a tequila-forward menu to Manatee County.

Dutch Bros is coming to Bradenton — its first shop in Manatee County — as part of the SeaFlower Village Center. The center is slated to be completed in late 2026.

Jeff's Bagel Run has opened in South Tampa, serving scratch-made bagels, rotating daily specials and an array of whipped spreads for the morning crowd.

Philly bagel chain Bagels & Co. filed permits for a Cypress Creek shop at 957 E Cypress Creek Rd. The brand is expanding across Florida with bold schmears and sandwiches.

Cru Hospitality will open Smith's Provisions and The Back Bar at Sparkman Wharf this March, adding quick-service burgers and a cocktail/wine bar to the Channelside waterfront.

Burger Vault opened on North 56th Street with halal beef, homemade sauces and plant‑based options after sampling more than 20 farms. The shop opens daily at 11 a.m.