New dining and retail options are springing up across the U.S., bringing excitement and variety to local communities just in time for the new year and the busy holiday shopping season.
For those heading back to school at the University of Mississippi, there’s great news this January. Ole Miss Dining Services is set to open a new Chick-fil-A location within the Gertrude C. Ford Ole Miss Student Union. Scheduled for grand opening on January 20, just before the spring semester kicks off, this location will take the place of the old Chick-fil-A, which is currently undergoing renovations after closing on December 16. The new venue promises to offer the full Chick-fil-A menu, including breakfast items, sandwiches, spicy offerings, and much-loved milkshakes. Chip Burr, director of Ole Miss Dining Services, expressed excitement about enhancing the dining experience on campus: "I can’t wait to complete this project and deliver on our commitment to enhancing the student dining experience." The grand opening event will feature activities and special promotions, setting the stage for buzzworthy future dining at the university.
A little to the south, Orlando's Vineland Pointe mall has emerged as the latest hotspot for meat lovers with the opening of Fogo De Chão. Known for its unique dining experience of Brazilian flame-roasted beef served tableside, the steakhouse opened its doors last Thursday. During its first week, Fogo De Chão will donate 10% of the proceeds to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, echoing their commitment to community engagement. CEO Barry McGowan noted, "We look forward to opening at Vineland Pointe and bringing the Culinary Art of Churrasco to Fogo fans and new guests seeking an unforgettable dining experience." The new restaurant boasts private dining spaces and happy hour offerings, perfect for the busy holiday season.
Meanwhile, convenience meets community with RaceTrac's first convenience store opening in Ohio. The 8,100-square-foot travel center aims to cater to the needs of nearly 75,000 drivers and commuters passing through the region daily. Chief brand officer Melanie Isbill characterized the opening as a significant milestone for RaceTrac, highlighting their dedication to community engagement and exceptional service. During the grand opening festivities, which included gift card giveaways and significant checks to local organizations, Ohioans were welcomed to explore the store which features fast fuel services and ample parking for larger vehicles, including trucks.
On the dining front, Proudly Serving, helmed by Matthew McIvor, is set to launch its second location, anticipated to open early January at 1617 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach. Beginning as a pop-up during the pandemic, McIvor turned flipping burgers from his driveway to establishing brick and mortar locations due to the success of his smash burgers. This new 60-seat venture will showcase signature items like the Juicy James burger, adding innovative flavor to their offerings. "We’re super excited but super nervous at the same time," McIvor said, highlighting the challenges and excitement of growth.
Similarly, Novus Clothing Company celebrated its first retail opening inside the Impact Athletic Center, finally providing solid ground for what began as a modest project by college students selling t-shirts and athletic gear. Owner Nick Bernardo noted their humble beginnings and the path their business has taken over the past decade. Today, they offer custom team apparel and have grown significantly, even attracting interest from former NBA player Kevin Huerter, one of their co-founders.
The bustle of new restaurant and retail openings reflects not only the varied culinary and shopping experiences springing up nationwide but also the entrepreneurial spirit at play. Each establishment carries its unique story, service, and charm, promising to contribute to the communities they inhabit.
