Drew Pittock | What Now Tampa: The Best Source for Tampa News

Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings to Open New Convenience Store Model in New Port Richey

Local franchisee Paul Rezkalla, whose restaurant will be family-run, says they hope to open more locations inside convenience stores should this one prove successful.

Toastique Set to Make Tampa Debut, Spring 2023

The gourmet toast and juice shop will be opening on the ground floor of Water Street’s Cora Residences, led by father and son team Arturo and Adrian Lojo.

Tempo Cafe Set to Replace Waterside Cafe at Tampa’s Fountain Square II

Largely servicing the surrounding business park, Tempo Cafe will offer sandwiches, cold food, and specialty coffee.

Local Acai & Coffee Concept, Raining Berries, is Coming to South Tampa

More than just a cafe, Raining Berries – which currently operates four locations with another 12 either ‘under construction’ or ‘coming soon’ – also boasts conference rooms where folks can take meetings and get work done.

Blue Pineapple Files Plan Review for Third Sarasota Location

Blue Pineapple sources its ice cream from a homemade creamery in St. Pete that's been operating since 1979.

Savory Thai Appears Poised to Make Lakeland Return

Despite the fact that a Savory Thai at a nearby address is listed as ‘permanently closed’ on Google, the restaurant recently filed a plan review application with the city.

Two New Fresh Kitchen Outposts Coming to Tampa Region

In addition to its Lakeland restaurant that’s opening early 2023, the homegrown quick-service healthy eatery filed a plan review with the city of Tampa for another location on Dec 6.

Tampa Bay to Get Another Urban Air Adventure Park

Franchisees Greg Dunn and Thomas Garcia are currently working with the company’s real estate team to find a suitable location.

Local Restaurateur, Chris Rivas, Taking Over 515 N Franklin St

Despite being announced five years ago, a new construction plan review was just filed this past October, and subsequently approved yesterday, Dec 5.

Plan Review Filed for New Holmes Beach Cafe, Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack

The new café is a ‘labor of love’ from New York native, Michelle McSweeney, who successfully raised funds for the small business via Kickstarter.

Crazy Burrito is Expanding to Hudson’s Sunshine Plaza

This will be the authentic Mexican restaurant’s third location, following openings in Tampa and Dunedin.

Local Ice Creamery, Bright Ice, Opening in Downtown Wellen Park

The small-batch, artisanal shop will join a number of other shops next spring as part of Wellen Park’s revitalization efforts.

Chiki Churros Files Plan Review for Port Richey Outpost

The innovative churro concept made its way to Florida thanks to Canadian native Louka Strongylos, who adds a little hometown flair to an otherwise familiar treat.

Charcuterie Concept, Graze Craze, to Debut in St. Pete by Early 2023

Franchisee Alex Gonzalez is hoping to use the first location as a proof-of-concept, before opening more outposts later next year.

Construction Continues at Sesh in St. Pete

The new gastropub comes courtesy of Matt Powers and his Mad Beach Craft Brewing crew.

Huey Magoo’s to Open in Auburndale, Early 2023

This will be the third of four locations operated by local franchisees, Chris and McKenzie Cohen.

Tapas and Cat Adoption to Converge at Feline, Opening Spring 2023

The new cat cafe with an “elevated twist” will operate in conjunction with St. Francis Society Animal Rescue.

New Construction Plan Review Filed for Culver’s in Lakeland

The plan review was initially filed last month, and received an update yesterday, Nov 22.

Crisp & Green Set to Make Tampa Debut, January 2023

The brand currently operates three outposts across the Sunshine State, with another 20 listed as “coming soon” on its website.

New Private Event Space, Fresh On D Beach, Coming to St Pete

An on-site restaurant and bar for the general public is expected to open in the second half of 2023.