Makenna Koffee
Multi-location cafe brand exploring new location in El Cajon, potentially moving into current Cafe Bella space. Offers coffee, teas, smoothies, and baked goods. Permit filings show active pursuit of expansion.
Tigawok
Fast-casual Chinese-inspired mini bowl concept preparing to open sixth location in La Jolla Village Square, moving into former Voqozo space. Menu includes orange peel chicken, kung pao chicken, mapo tofu, and wagyu curry with customizable bowl options.
The Macaron Shop SD
Bakery specializing in custom French macarons opening first brick-and-mortar location. Owner hopes to welcome customers in May once health permits are approved. Offers handmade macarons, custom designs, seasonal flavors, and specialty macaron towers.
JINYA.
Flagship live-fire dining concept from JINYA Holdings featuring Japanese cuisine with live-fire grilling, sushi, and cocktails. Full-service restaurant with climate controlled aging room, open for dinner 5-10pm with daily happy hour.
H&H Bagels
Famous New York bagel shop expanding to Palm Desert, part of company’s growth plan. Will offer various bagels, spreads, egg sandwiches, and smoked fish, with bagels baked fresh throughout the day.
Bacari
Bacari expanding to Old Town Pasadena in One Colorado shopping center. 5,000-square-foot space formerly home to Sage Regenerative Kitchen. Restaurant offers items like shrimp ceviche, flat iron steak, sea bass, and specialty grilled pizzas.
Seabutter
Sushi restaurant expanding to fifth location at The Runway in Playa Vista. Offers fresh fish, sushi, sashimi, hand-cut rolls, and tempura. Has existing locations in Beverly Hills, Glendale, Laguna Beach and Westlake Village.
Omake
Coffee concept focused on connection and coffee/tea education, featuring signature coffee tasting experiences, tea rituals, globally-inspired multi-roastery coffees, and ceremonial matcha from Japan. Space designed with natural stones, walnut wood and microcement.
Bacio di Latte
Italian gelateria expanding to The Americana at Brand shopping mall in Glendale. Makes fresh gelato daily with organic ingredients and Italian-sourced nuts. Currently has 12 locations in LA area.
Koakai Brewing Company
Craft brewery with Asian-inspired food program owned by husband-and-wife team Mike and AJ Aubuchon. Will offer house-brewed beers and food menu blending Japanese, Hawaiian, and barbecue influences. Opening next to owners’ existing Kyoto Japanese Market.