Florida, December 28, 2025
Florida’s culinary scene is expanding with the anticipated opening of 16 new restaurants across the state. From health-focused eateries to beloved chains returning, these venues promise to enhance dining experiences for both residents and visitors. Key highlights include Fresh Kitchen’s flagship location and LEVEL99’s interactive entertainment venue at Disney Springs, alongside expansions from Fatburger and Chick-fil-A. This surge in new establishments reflects economic growth and aims to create job opportunities, benefiting local communities.
Exciting New Restaurant Openings Across Florida
A Culinary Surge in the Sunshine State
The culinary landscape in Florida is brimming with new opportunities as 16 restaurants prepare to open across the state. From fresh health-focused eateries to beloved chains making a comeback, Florida’s additions promise an exciting range of dining experiences for locals and visitors alike. This list not only showcases the resilience and innovative spirit of the state’s entrepreneurs but also highlights how reduced regulatory hurdles can drive growth in the hospitality sector.
The dining industry is often seen as a bellwether for economic vitality, and the burgeoning new establishments reflect a forward momentum that could contribute to job creation and local economic development. By supporting these businesses, communities can enjoy not only enhanced dining options but also bolster the local economy.
Fresh Kitchen’s New Flagship Location
Set to open in early 2026, Fresh Kitchen’s flagship restaurant will take over the former Ducky’s Sports Lounge space at 1719 W. Kennedy Blvd. This location will double the size of a typical Fresh Kitchen, signifying a major investment and a new hub for nutritious, customizable meal options in the area.
Disney’s LEVEL99 Entertainment Venue
Scheduled for a 2026 opening at Disney Springs’ West Side, LEVEL99 will offer an interactive dining experience with physical and mental challenges in immersive settings. The venue will feature a gourmet menu, including Detroit-style pizza, catering to both appetite and adventure.
Sweet Tomatoes’ Return to Florida
After a nationwide closure in 2020, Sweet Tomatoes is set to reopen its Fort Myers location at 14080 S Tamiami Trail in 2026. The renovations aim for a spring debut, bringing back the beloved salad buffet experience that many Floridians cherished.
Fatburger’s Expansion in Florida
Fatburger plans to open 40 additional locations throughout Florida in the next decade, with the first new location set to debut this year near Jacksonville in Orange Park. This expansion indicates a growing appetite for fast-casual dining offerings in the state.
Chick-fil-A’s New Miami-Area Restaurants
Chick-fil-A is expanding its footprint in the Miami area with four new restaurants slated for Fall 2024 through early 2025. This expansion will create over 500 new jobs in the local community, showcasing a commitment to enhancing employment opportunities.
Michelin’s New Additions to Florida Guide
Michelin has added 10 new restaurants to its Florida Guide, enhancing the state’s culinary reputation. With the total now surpassing 140 eateries, these new additions feature both affordable and casual options located primarily in Miami and Orlando.
Metro Diner’s First Palm Harbor Location
Metro Diner has opened its first Palm Harbor location at 35000 U.S. Highway 19 N., expanding its presence with a 3,490-square-foot restaurant that accommodates 112 guests. This marks an important step in the brand’s expansion in the Tampa Bay Area.
Bahama Breeze’s Strategic Changes
Amid operational adjustments, Bahama Breeze closed 15 locations across the country in May 2025 and is now looking to re-evaluate its remaining restaurants. This marks a shift in their strategy, with an emphasis on prioritizing locations that align with their business goals.
Jack in the Box’s Entry into Orlando Market
Jack in the Box has announced plans to establish itself in the Orlando market with up to 20 new locations, starting with a venue on John Young Parkway. This move reflects a growing competitive landscape for fast food in Central Florida.
Raising Cane’s Expansion in Florida
Since launching its first location in Homestead in November 2022, Raising Cane’s has opened 16 establishments across Florida, with more locations on the way in Altamonte Springs and Lutz. This expansion highlights the brand’s increasing popularity and the potential for further growth in the state.
The Gardens Mall’s New Dick’s House of Sport
The Gardens Mall is set to open a new Dick’s House of Sport in the space formerly occupied by Sears. This addition aims to enhance the shopping experience and attract more visitors, further solidifying the mall’s position as a local shopping destination.
Conclusion
Florida’s expanding restaurant scene is a testament to the hard work and innovation of local entrepreneurs. From health-focused arrays to beloved franchises returning to their roots, these new openings are poised to bring positive impacts to communities across the state. By patronizing these eateries, residents can support local businesses and contribute to economic growth in their neighborhoods. Stay tuned for more developments as Florida enjoys a culinary renaissance.
FAQ
What new restaurants are opening in Florida?
Florida will see the opening of 16 new restaurants, ranging from fast-casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
When will Fresh Kitchen’s flagship location open?
Fresh Kitchen is set to open its new flagship location in early 2026.
What types of cuisine will be featured at LEVEL99?
LEVEL99 will offer an interactive experience with a chef-crafted menu, including Detroit-style pizza.
How many jobs will Chick-fil-A’s new Miami locations create?
The four new Chick-fil-A restaurants are expected to create over 500 job opportunities in the local area.
What is the status of Sweet Tomatoes in Florida?
Sweet Tomatoes plans to reopen its Fort Myers location in 2026 after its nationwide closure in 2020.
Key Features of New Restaurant Openings in Florida
| Restaurant Name | Opening Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Kitchen | Early 2026 | 1719 W. Kennedy Blvd. | New flagship location with customizable bowls. |
| LEVEL99 | 2026 | Disney Springs | Interactive venue with chef-crafted menus. |
| Sweet Tomatoes | 2026 | 14080 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers | Return after nationwide closure in 2020. |
| Fatburger | 2025 | Orange Park | Expansion of 40 new locations in Florida. |
| Chick-fil-A | Fall 2024 – Early 2025 | Miami Area | Four new restaurants creating 500+ jobs. |
| Metro Diner | Now Open | Palm Harbor | First location in Palm Harbor. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
