Because Norfolk is always evolving and changing, we want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the new talented chefs, baristas, boutique owners or pitmasters opening up businesses. Whether it’s trying an innovative dish or buying a new outfit, we’re always excited to try out the new locally-owned shops and restaurants. Although we cannot list every new entity that joins Norfolk’s culture, we encourage you to follow along with us on social media for more openings and happenings within the city!
Amale Tre Focacceria
Operated by husband and wife partner Gabriele and Nicole Pianezze, Amale Tre Focacceria crafts mouthwatering foccacias, imported meats and cheeses and other Italian delights in Selden Market. Also serving homemade breads, pasts, sauces, deserts and more. You may know the pair from their popular La Cucina di Sophia food truck. A steady stream of customers at their kiosk tells you everything you need to know about the quality of their offerings.
Crave Bakery & Coffee Bar
Camille Sheppard-Parrish has recently moved Crave Bakery from its Edinburgh location to the former Chocollage space at Boush and College in the Historic Freemason District. The bakery serves up coffee, pastries, ice cream and a full breakfast and lunch menu including croissants, toasts, waffles and more. 200 College Place.
Ordinaire
Located in the original Brothers restaurant space at 200 E. Plume St. in Downtown Norfolk, Ordinaire serves up a coastal Gullah-inspired menu. Appetizers include fried pickled okra, fried deviled eggs, boiled peanuts and entrees such as shrimp and grits, lamb chops, chicken and collar alfredo and more.
Studio Kuumba
This pop-up art studio and workspace began as a pop-up in Selden Market at 208 E. Main St. The concept is simple: pop in any time for simple free flow crafting like creating bookmarks, bracelets, paintings and more. Sign up for guided workshops by yourself or with a group. Also carries local art, jewelry and more, created by the owner and other talented artists. Now, the store is expanding to a full-fledged storefront.
Biscuit Belly
Slated to open mid-March in the ambitious Railyard at Lambert’s Point project is regional chain Biscuit Belly at 2401 Hampton Blvd. The eatery promises a “brunch menu filled with bold new twists on Southern favorites.”
StretchLab
Also found in the Railyard at Lambert’s Point, StretchLab offers “one-on-one, customized assisted stretching sessions. The stretches are given on our custom designed benches by Flexologists who will customize your stretch to your needs and talk you through your stretches.” Find it at 1225 W. 25th St.
Chicken Salad Chick
Load up on a dozen different types of chicken salad, served on bread, croissants or lettuce at this new Railyard entry. Find it at 1200 W. 26th St.
Cooking with Greens
Slated to open in early April 2024, Cooking with Greens is operated by Derak and Anita Green (get it?). What began as a Facebook page has transformed into a storefront in Selden Market where the Greens will sell seasonings, cookbooks, kitchenware and more. 208 E. Main St.
PJay’s Kitchen
Veteran-owned Granby Street spot for shrimp po’boys, slow-braised oxtail sandwiches, tacos and more. 323 Granby St.
The New F.R.E.D.
If you’ve spent any time downtown, you’ve likely seen F.R.E.D. roaming the streets, offering Free Rides Every Day to visitors. Downtown Norfolk recently unveiled a new, fancified battery-operated F.R.E.D. unit that transports up to 8 passengers with confort. Call 757-478-7233 to hitch a ride.
Victory Rover
Like F.R.E.D., Victory Rover has been a downtown staple for many years, but it’s worth noting that March 2024 marked the return of these ever-popular naval base harbor cruises at the Waterside. As things heat up, don’t miss the chance to see Mermaid City from a different vantage point – aboard a 149-passenger ship.
LoveWork AR Installation
As part of its “Love is in the Air” campaign, Norfolk International Airport recently unveiled its newest LOVEwork sign that features an Augmented Reality (AR) experience for those who scan the QR code. Check it out; it’s pretty neat!
Want to tell us about new business openings? Email us your tips.
