Ben & Jerry’s
New locally owned Ben & Jerry’s scoop shop opening in the Steeplechase area of Newberry (Gainesville area). Franchise owner Heali Mehta is targeting the third week of August 2026 for opening. The location is listed as ‘coming soon’ on the company’s website. Mehta plans to focus on community engagement, connecting with families and creating activities.
Taco Bell
A new Taco Bell is proposed for Jacksonville’s Westside at 7211 Normandy Blvd. A city filing shows the proposed restaurant at this site. No construction schedule or opening date has been provided. The location is pending approval and completion.
Pura Bean Coffee Co.
Pura Bean Coffee Co. plans to open a new location at Jacksonville International Airport in Concourse B (Unit B248). The shop will offer handcrafted coffee, espresso drinks, tea, and baked items. A city filing confirms the planned location. Owner has not yet responded to media inquiries.
Bar Citra
Bar Citra, a St. Augustine-based coffee, pastry, and seasonal fare restaurant with a Bib Gourmand distinction in the 2026 Florida Michelin Guide, is opening its first Jacksonville location at Pearl Square (Vandeveer building) in Downtown Jacksonville. The 2,000 sq ft space is owned by husband-and-wife duo Rachel Gant and Andrew Deming. It will be among […]
Fat Tuesday
Fat Tuesday frozen cocktail chain is returning to Jacksonville after nearly three decades, listing a Five Points location at 1045 Park Street (former Rain Dogs space) as ‘coming soon’ on its website. No opening date has been announced. The brand is known for frozen daiquiris and cocktails, founded on Bourbon Street in New Orleans in […]
PopUp Bagels
PopUp Bagels is opening a second Jacksonville location at Pearl Square (Vandeveer building) in Downtown Jacksonville. The 1,443-square-foot shop is part of Gateway Jax’s $1 billion mixed-use development. Operated by Built Different Brands under Florida partner Kal Gullapali. The building is expected to welcome residents in late summer 2026, with retailers opening around the same […]
Workaround Cafe
New co-working coffee shop concept planned for the Greater Heights/Lazybrook-Timbergrove area. 3,001 sq ft tenant improvement project estimated at $450,000. Construction planned to start December 2026 and wrap up by end of January 2027, with opening anticipated by early 2027. Will feature a coffee shop with various seating environments for different work settings.
Island Deli and Smoothie Bar
Second location of Island Deli and Smoothie Bar, a family-owned restaurant specializing in sandwiches, sliders, salads, smoothie bowls, boba, and coffee. Opening in the Montage Shopping Center in the Spring Valley/Southwest Las Vegas area. Permit filed with Clark County. Owners include Dewayne Rose, Gina, and Rodel. Original location at 1014 E Charleston Blvd established December […]
Tacos La Bala
Family-owned Mexican restaurant chain expanding to Caney Crossing shopping center. New 2,482 sq ft location with estimated $250,000 construction cost. Construction set to begin September 2026 and wrap up end of January 2027, with opening expected early 2027. Co-owner Alejandra Gonzalez confirmed the opening. Chain has 8 existing locations in Greater Houston area.
Gong cha
Gong cha bubble tea chain has signed a 50-unit exclusive franchise deal with Bakers Acres & Cattle Company (BACC) to open locations across Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas over the next seven years. This is the largest direct franchising deal in Gong cha history. BACC Managing Member is Brett Walker. No specific opening dates […]