A fresh wave of new food and drink establishments is opening in cities across the country, bringing exciting and diverse options for you to explore this spring. This report on new food and drink establishments opening city-wide highlights the latest spots you need to know about, from cozy neighborhood cafes to major international brands.
This is your chance to discover a new favorite restaurant and support emerging local businesses. The culinary scene is buzzing with activity, offering everything from classic American comfort food in historic settings to spicy hot chicken and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Get ready to update your must-try list with these fantastic new additions.
What We Know So Far
- Seven new restaurants have recently opened in the Des Moines metro area, offering a wide variety of cuisines, according to the Des Moines Register.
- A new bar and restaurant named Moses McQueens is preparing for its grand opening in Downtown Fresno, as reported by abc30.com.
- The global fast-food chain Jollibee is continuing its expansion in New York City with a new location planned for Midtown Manhattan, according to a press release on prnewswire.com.
- The new dining spots in Des Moines include options for ice cream, Vietnamese food, and Nashville-style hot chicken, the Des Moines Register noted.
- Moses McQueens will be located inside a 100-year-old historic home and will serve classic American cuisine, abc30.com also reported.
Must-Visit New Restaurants and Bars Across The Country
If you're looking for a new dining experience, several cities are welcoming an exciting array of new eateries. In Iowa, the Des Moines metro area has seen seven new restaurants open their doors recently. This boom offers a fantastic tour of different flavors and styles, ensuring there's something new for every palate. The variety is a key part of the appeal for local food lovers.
According to the Des Moines Register, the new spots cover a culinary map. You can cool down with a sweet treat at Scoops by Beth, an ice cream shop that opened its first brick-and-mortar location on February 21. For a taste of Southeast Asia, Phonatics & Grill opened in Norwalk on the same day, serving Vietnamese dishes. If you're craving some heat, Dave’s Hot Chicken opened its second Iowa location in Ankeny on December 12, 2025, bringing its popular Nashville-style spicy chicken to more fans. These openings reflect the diverse demographic and economic trends impacting local businesses, creating a vibrant food scene.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Fresno is about to welcome a unique new destination. A bar and restaurant called Moses McQueens is opening in the city's downtown area. According to abc30.com, the establishment is uniquely situated inside a 100-year-old historic home on Van Ness near Highway 41. This setting promises a dining experience with a touch of history and character. The menu will feature classic American cuisine, offering familiar comforts in a memorable location. Exploring such unique local spots is a great way to connect with the city's heritage, much like you can on one of the best walking tours for food, history, and culture.
In New York City, an international favorite is expanding its presence. Jollibee, the fast-food chain from the Philippines, is opening another location in Midtown Manhattan. A press release on prnewswire.com confirmed the expansion, which is sure to excite the brand's loyal followers. This move brings its famous Chickenjoy and other popular menu items to another high-traffic area of the city, making it even more accessible for residents and tourists alike. Supporting these businesses, both large and small, is vital for a thriving community, as it's our cultural lifeline.
What We Know About Next Steps
You can start planning your visits to some of these new establishments right away. For those in Fresno, the wait is almost over. The grand opening for Moses McQueens is set for Saturday, April 4, according to abc30.com. This gives you a specific date to mark on your calendar to be among the first to experience this new restaurant in its historic setting.
For fans of Jollibee in New York, the new location has a target opening date. The East 42nd Street restaurant is set to welcome guests on March 31, 2026, as stated in the company's press release. While it's still some time away, it's a clear signal of the brand's continued growth in the city. Keeping an eye on these developments is key to staying ahead of the curve in the ever-changing food scene.
Local media in other areas are also closely watching new openings. For example, recordnet.com reports The Stockton Record plans a list of new establishments opening in the Stockton area in 2026. Concurrently, floridatoday.com stated Florida Today will publish a restaurant roundup for March. These reports highlight ongoing media interest in the food and drink sector across various communities.
