Chubby Cattle
Japanese yakiniku restaurant specializing in premium wagyu beef, taking over former Red Lobster space. Features tabletop grilling, tech-forward ordering, and tiered pricing from $55-85 per person.
Labora Cafe
Specialty coffee shop focused on ceremonial grade matcha expanding to second location in North Park. 1,800 square feet space next to The Observatory with minimalist modern design.
Pizza On Pearl
La Jolla-based pizzeria expanding to North Park location, known for New York-style pies. Second location moving into former Sipz Vegetarian Kitchen space. Signage already placed on building.
Kings Meats
Kings Meats is preparing to open a 4,000-square-foot second location at El Dorado Hills Town Center. The butcher shop offers premium dry-aged meats, hand-cut steaks, house-made sausages, and specialty market items including breads, cheeses, and local goods.
Smash
Fast-casual burger restaurant from the team behind Glen Ellen Star and Stella, featuring smashburgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and other casual fare. Located in historic early-1900s bank building near Sonoma Plaza. Will also operate The Beacon speakeasy on second floor.
Mountain House
Sichuan restaurant expanding from New York with new San Gabriel Valley location. Features traditional Sichuan dishes, mountain retreat-inspired interior with 120 seats, koi ponds, and wooden walkways. Culinary Director Zhi Min Zhu leads kitchen with chefs from Sichuan.
Chick-fil-A Centre City
New drive-thru focused Chick-fil-A restaurant opening with approximately 85 jobs created. Features drive-thru, walk-up window, delivery, catering and Mobile Thru. Owner-Operator Zach Thomas will operate Monday-Saturday 6am-11pm.
Champagnes Kitchen
Second location of Newport Beach restaurant expanding to Huntington Beach, taking over former IHOP space. Will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with bar program and espresso menu. Operated by husband-wife team Matt and Winnona Tobey.
Joey Restaurants
British Columbian casual restaurant chain opening first San Diego County location at Westfield UTC. 10,600-square-foot location serving globally inspired menu of fresh seafood, steaks, nigiri, pasta, sandwiches and shareable plates. Soft opening April 18-22.
STARA
Polish street food chain expanding from Original Farmers Market location to Venice Beach Boardwalk. Specializes in pierogi, kielbasa, and traditional Polish dishes with prices ranging from $6 to mid-$20s.