Food–Beverage

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By Elizabeth King
May 14, 2025

After nearly closing, Sarasota cheese shop raises capital to remain open

The owner of Artisan Cheese Company, facing closure due to a host of issues, finds salvation in an angel investor — and her customers.

Manatee-Sarasota

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By Laura Lyon
May 14, 2025

South Carolina hospitality group opens first of two Tampa restaurants

Maru, from South Carolina-based Indigo Road Hospitality Group, has opened on the rooftop of Bayshore Gardens in Tampa. The second restaurant is slated for a fall opening.

Tampa Bay-Lakeland

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By Mark Gordon
May 14, 2025

Noted resort developer, entrepreneur dies at 84

Al Ten Ten Broek’s hospitality businesses and entities employed thousands of people.

Charlotte–Lee–Collier

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By Laura Lyon
May 13, 2025

Tampa coffee roaster lands west coast distribution deal

Tampa-based coffee brand Buddy Brew announced its first expansion to California.

Tampa Bay-Lakeland

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By Elizabeth King
May 13, 2025

Chick-fil-A restaurants opening in Bradenton, Tampa hire 160 staff

A Bradenton Chick-fil-A restaurant is holding a grand opening, while a Tampa Chick-fil-A has relocated.

Florida

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By Observer Staff
May 13, 2025

James Beard-nominated restaurateurs to open upscale Japanese spot at UTC

Zoto is being developed by James Beard-nominated restaurateurs Jimmy and Johnny Tung.

Manatee-Sarasota

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By Elizabeth King
May 12, 2025

Fast-casual healthy restaurant opens in Lakewood Ranch

Flower Child is making its Florida debut with the launch of a location on University Parkway.

Manatee-Sarasota

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By Beth Luberecki
May 9, 2025

Luxury Naples restaurateurs plan exclusive Japanese, French concepts

Corinne Ryan and Veljko Pavicevic have found Naples to be an ideal fit for their luxury restaurant concepts. One key, says a co-founder: "We stopped hiring and started recruiting."

Charlotte–Lee–Collier

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By Elizabeth King
May 8, 2025

First Watch opens restaurant in 31st state

The East Manatee County-based daytime restaurant company now has more than 580 locations.

Manatee-Sarasota

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By Dana Kampa
May 7, 2025

Sarasota waterfront bar reopens after storms

Say goodbye to the boat wrecked on this Sarasota Tiki bar's dock and hello to a revamped bay-side experience.

Manatee-Sarasota

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By Elizabeth King
May 6, 2025

Boston restaurant chain opens Parrish location

Kelly’s Roast Beef opened a new restaurant in Creekside Commons in Manatee County, the sixth for the chain in Florida.

Manatee-Sarasota

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By Elizabeth King
May 2, 2025

Fast-casual franchisee grows to four SoFresh stores in region

"I like the challenge," says entrepreneur William Wolf, who started out as a professional gamer and recently turned around an underperforming restaurant in a matter of months. One lesson? Put customer service first.