The Hispanic fusion restaurant opened in June by economist Marilyn Castro, a Puerto Rico native, who wanted to jazz up the morning scene and provide jobs for people.

The menu ranges from omelets to pancakes and waffles, to a burrito and a quesadilla made with a choice of protein. Dishes showcase ingredients such as Argentinian sausage, sweet potatoes and Mallorca bread, a sweet bun originating in Mallorca (Majorca), Spain’s Balearic Islands. Castro gets the bread imported from Puerto Rico but creates every recipe. The restaurant also serves nine types of mimosas, including horchata, tamarind and guava.

I dined at one of the six tables on my visits.

The appetizers are a must-have. I tried three on two occasions and I loved them all. My favorite is the egg and sausage empanada ($4.50). I could eat one or two every day. It was fried golden, packed with protein and didn’t weigh the belly down. Pastry perfection.

The Cuban egg roll ($7) pulled up next with flavor from the sandwich’s ingredients. It was cheesy from the Swiss, savory from the ham and tangy from the pickles. The shape, however, was thinner and longer than a traditional roll nor did it have the same crispy texture. I still loved it. Kudos to the chef.

I let out an “ooh” when the Mallorca bread loaded with Bavarian cream ($7) arrived. Lots of smooth cream sat in the middle of thick and fluffy bread. It was decadent, not too sweet and paired well with tea.

The breakfast burrito ($14) and fries also made a great duo. I’m glad they came on the side because my biggest complaint about burritos is the often unseasoned and undercooked potatoes on the inside. The burrito had fluffy scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, pico de gallo and my choice of protein, which was bacon. Each mouthful contained a full breakfast entrée. I plan to get this again. Delicious.

The pork chop and creamy waffle meal ($15) were fantastic too. It came with a choice of coconut, spicy or regular syrup. I selected spicy. Juice oozed as I cut into the fried meat. I liked the seasoning but it was a little too salty. I dipped my fork in syrup but it was too spicy. I asked for regular and it did the trick. The sweetness gave the dish more balance. I snarfed on the pork chop down to the bone. The crispy waffle had a fluffy interior like it was supposed to. No complaints.

Customers could also get the sweet potato waffle which I highly recommend. No syrup is required just the greatness of the vegetable in a cake batter. 

I wrapped up my stay with a pina colada sangria ($9) and I was feeling good after a few sips. It was prepared with white wine and still had a fruity-creamy consistency. I never imagined these two getting together — talk about late to the party.

Breakfast was the best meal of the day.

Rekaya Gibson, 757-295-8809, rekaya.gibson@virginiamedia.com; on X, @gibsonrekaya

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If you go

Where: 2720 North Mall Drive, Virginia Beach

Hours: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday

Prices: $4 to $11 appetizers, $12 to $15 entrees, $9 mimosas and sangria

Details: 757-904-5561; https://breakfastbarva.com

The black and white murals in the monochrome restaurant evoke the look of a coloring book in need of crayons. Everything at 2D Cafe & Eatery is outlined in black, including the wall design, ceiling tiles, sofas, stools and floors, to create cartoon vibes.

In June, Monica Kiraly and her husband, Ali Abay, opened the Instagrammable cafe on 11th Street and Atlantic Avenue. The couple owns three other Oceanfront businesses: Basil Pizza, 204 Pizza and La Dulce Vida.

Kiraly said she loves coffee shops and thought the Oceanfront needed more. So, when her husband went to a 2D cafe in Turkey and brought the creative idea back, Kiraly was sold. Her only concern was finding someone to the paint the 2D concept.

The couple hired two J-1 art students from Thailand to paint the design. The students took three weeks to complete the painting and worked on their days off from their housekeeping jobs at an area hotel. The State Department’s J-1 exchange visitor visa program enables international students to work seasonal jobs.

“I was a J-1 student myself seven years ago,” Kiraly said. “I knew the students coming to Virginia Beach had lots of potential and skills.”

Cafe menu items include Turkish dishes, coffee, iced lattes, boba drinks, bagels, salads, wagyu burgers and dumplings. Kiraly said the best sellers are the signature iced lattes such as Dulce de Coco (dulce de leche cream and coconut cold foam), Strawberry Bliss (strawberry puree, vanilla and strawberry cold foam) and Biscoffee (Biscoff cream, vanilla and cold foam).

Cig kofte, or small and spicy bulgur wheat meatballs, is one of the most popular Turkish dishes. Turkish desserts include baklava, custards, “burnt” cheesecake and others.

The cafe is very active on Instagram and gets tagged frequently. Within the first month, a customer asked to have a photo shoot at the location.

“Most of our customers come because of the 2D concept,” Kiraly said. “We want to keep them happy with the good food, not just the cool design.”

Lee Belote, jlbelote@verizon.net

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If you go

What: 2D Cafe & Eatery

Where: 1102 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach

Info: 2dcafe.com

All of the staff at Stripers Waterside in Norfolk were abruptly told Sept. 1 by management that they were being let go, she said. This came as a complete shock to Halvorson and her co-workers, who she said are just like family.

Employees were led outside — so as not to disrupt in-house diners — and told the restaurant was closing its doors immediately, shutting down and they were all laid off, Halvorson said.

Known for its fresh-caught seafood, draft beer and water views, Stripers had been operating in a roughly 8,000-square-foot space at Waterside since late 2017. Its initial location in Manteo, North Carolina, is still operating.

WAVY-TV first reported the layoff and shutdown on Wednesday. Around 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Stripers responded to media inquiries in a news release and confirmed the restaurant is closed temporarily and the goal is to reopen as soon as possible.

“While we are unable to provide specific details due to an ongoing investigation by authorities, we want to acknowledge that management issues and possible malfeasance played a role in this decision,” the business said in the release. “The closure of Stripers Waterside was not a decision taken lightly. Unfortunately, damage that occurred necessitated the immediate closure of the restaurant. We are currently undergoing remodeling and renovations to address some of these issues and improve our facilities for our loyal patrons.”

The employees are welcome to return when the restaurant reopens, said Kimberly Wimbish, who represents Stripers through her public relations firms, KMK Productions. Stripers employed 32 workers.

As of Thursday, online reservations through OpenTable were available on the Stripers website again in November.

News of a sudden layoff came as a big surprise to server Pamela Ortiz, who said she was still processing it all.

“It’s been a rough year economically for everybody already and having to take this loss is just horrible,” she said.

Ortiz, of Norfolk, said she heard she was without a job via a group text as she was in the hospital being prepped for kidney surgery. She started as a server in February and management moved her to a host position as she dealt with her health problems.

“I’m very grateful,” she said. “They took good care of me.”

Halvorson, a server, started at Stripers Waterside at the end of March. The Las Vegas native, who was not new to the service industry, was promoted to lead server after two months on the job.

“I really enjoyed being there,” she said.

Halvorson said she saw the owner pull the assistant manager into a boardroom for what seemed like a 20-30 minute meeting.

“He came out and the vibe was definitely different, almost somber,” she said.

Halvorson and Ortiz said they weren’t told the restaurant was remodeling when they were let go.

“Why would you want to get rid of a whole entire staff if you’re just remodeling?” Halvorson said. “I don’t want this to happen to anybody else if Stripers does reopen, and I don’t think there are enough laws to protect service industry workers who have the rug pulled out from underneath them.”

Stripers said in the news release that it understands “concerns raised by our employees regarding the lack of communication and uncertainty surrounding their employment status. We want to assure them and the community that we are working diligently to address these issues and ensure fair treatment for all employees.”

Customers expressed disappointment about the restaurant’s closure on Facebook.

Editor Tara Bozick contributed to this story.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.com

October

• Redwood Smoke Shack will open in the former Bennett’s Creek Farm Market location in Suffolk.

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September

• The Velvet Shoestring, a fine furniture consignment shop located at 311 Second St. in Williamsburg, expanded with the official opening of a second location Sept. 4, according to their Facebook page. The second location, The Velvet Shoestring Too, is located at 7191 Merrimac Trail.
• Norfolk-based LGBT Life Center held a grand opening for its new Hampton facility on Sept. 5. It’s located at 20 Settlers Landing Road.
• A new welding lab and classroom will open Sept. 6 in the Virginia Beach Technical and Career Education Center at 2925 North Landing Road, according to a press release.
• The 757 Creative ReUse Center in MacArthur Center mall in Norfolk is expanding an additional 1,200 square feet for a new art room. A grand opening will be held Sept. 7.
• The Chrysler Museum of Art’s Perry Glass Studio in Norfolk will open to classes after a renovation and expansion Sept. 12. An official grand opening is slated for March.
• Lazy Daisy, a home goods retailer, is opening its first franchise location in Virginia Beach this month. It will be located at 4001 Virginia Beach Blvd. near Town Center.
• Coastal Thirst Beach Deli plans to open this month at 524 Water St. in Yorktown. The space was formerly occupied by Larry’s Lemonade.
• May’s Parlor will close its bakery at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront on Sept. 21.
• Sea Love Candle Bar and Boutique will hold a grand opening Sept. 23. The DIY candle bar is located at 1860 Laskin Road, No. 103, in Virginia Beach.
• Old Point National Bank will close its downtown Norfolk branch on Sept. 27. It’s located at 580 E. Main St.
• A new Dollar Tree is slated to open Sept. 26 in the Kingsgate Green shopping complex off Waller Mill Road in upper York County.

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August

• Casa Furniture, which specializes in living room sets and mattresses, held a grand opening on Aug. 1. It’s located at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets.
• Honey and Hooch opened Aug. 1 at 500 S. Battlefield Blvd. in Chesapeake.
• On Aug. 1, The Hungry Pug food truck announced on social media that it is ceasing operations.
• French Twist Boutique announced on Aug. 1 that its Merchants Square location in Williamsburg is closing.
• Gardner-Willz Cafe, which held a soft opening at 5811 West Norfolk Road in Portsmouth on July 11, is closed. Business challenges and a “30-year-old A/C system which needs replacement” were stated in a Facebook post on Aug. 1 as reasons for the closure.
• Old Beach Farmers Market relocated to 18th Street in Virginia Beach on Aug. 3.
• A new retail center, Market 5, with businesses operating out of shipping containers, opened in Charles City County. The market is located along Route 5 adjacent to the Virginia Capital Trail.
• Big Lots is closing two stores at 5900 E. Virginia Beach Blvd. in Norfolk and 1650 General Booth Blvd. in Virginia Beach. Closing dates have not been announced.
• The Lab Bistro off Holland Road in Virginia Beach permanently closed, according to an Aug. 6 Facebook post.
• Darla’s Downtown Boutique opened Aug. 10 at 126 N. Main St.in Suffolk.
• Leila International Cuisine held a grand opening Aug. 10. It’s located at 4136 Granby St. in Norfolk.
• Be Free Craft Ice Cream Café opened in the Redmill area of Virginia Beach at 2336 Elson Green Ave.
• Cava opened a new restaurant Aug. 16 at 2808 Sabre St. in Virginia Beach.
• Plaza Azteca closed its downtown Norfolk location, at 411 Granby St., on Aug. 16.
• Sweet & Spice Gelato recently opened at 1115 Independence Blvd. in Virginia Beach.
• The Bagel Baker Delicatessen opened at 4000 Virginia Beach Blvd. in Virginia Beach.
• Greenbrier Lighting has closed its Chesapeake location after 31 years.
• Amedeo’s Ristorante and Amedeo’s Bakery in Suffolk closed Aug. 25.
• The Red Lobster at 709 Independence Blvd. in Virginia Beach closed.
• Dignity for the Aged, a nonprofit that aims to improve long-term care facilities and advocate for the residents who live in them, opened an office in Newport News in late August.
• Ladles Soups OBX in Kill Devil Hills served its final customers Aug. 28, the restaurant said in a Facebook post.
• The Annex, a new music venue at 2500 Church St. in Norfolk, opened Aug. 29.
• Tous les Jours, a French-Asian bakery café, opened Aug. 29 at 12515 Jefferson Ave. in Newport News.
• Edgewood Outfitters, a family-owned women’s fashion outfitter, opened Aug. 30 at Greenbrier Mall in Chesapeake.
• Norfolk Smokehouse & Seafood Company held a grand opening Aug. 31. It’s located at 1903 Shoop Ave. in Norfolk.
• Emblem Olive Oil Market, at 416 Green Tree Road in Chesapeake, held a grand opening Aug. 31.

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July

• Zion’s Kreations & Kuisine, a new boutique and snack bar specializing in plant-based treats, Caribbean-inspired vegan cuisine, herbal teas and more opened on July 1. It’s located in the Williamsburg Premium Outlets near the Vans Outlet and Columbia Factory Store.
• Corkscrews & Brews, which serves a variety of coffees, smoothies and wine, held a grand opening at 208 23rd St. in Newport News.
• Virginia’s first Del Taco, a Southern California-based Mexican fast food chain, held a grand opening in Chesapeake on July 3. It’s located near Sam’s Club in Greenbrier at 1507 Sam’s Circle.
• North Carolina Furniture & Mattress  opened a new location at Williamsburg Pottery at 6692 Richmond Road in Williamsburg. A soft opening was held July 4 and a grand opening is planned in the fall.
• Norfolk Candle opened a brick- and-mortar location inside Selden Market in downtown Norfolk.
• The Seafare, one of Williamsburg’s best-known restaurants, is closed for the summer. The owner plans to reopen in the fall after a remodel.
• Perfect Touch Brows opened at Williamsburg Premium Outlets July 9.
• Edmarc, a Portsmouth-based nonprofit that provides services to terminally ill children and their families, held a ribbon cutting July 9 for a new facility on Monticello Avenue in Williamsburg.
• MacArthur Pharmacy in downtown Norfolk closed in mid-July. The building owner plans to open a general store and mini-grocery store in its place.
• En Pointe Dance Academy held a grand reopening for its expanded studio on July 15. The new studio is located at 6610 Mooretown Road, Unit K, in Williamsburg.
• The Mason Jar opened in mid-July at 141 Hillcrest Parkway, Suite 100, in Chesapeake. The restaurant specializes in breakfast, brunch and Southern comfort food, according to its Facebook page.
• Perfume Hut opened near Ben & Jerry’s at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets.
• Tommy’s Restaurant, in the 3400 block of West Mercury Blvd. in Hampton, closed indefinitely after a vehicle crashed into the building on July 18.
• The Keurig Green Mountain facility in Isle of Wight County will close by the end of the year, the company announced July 24. There’s no specific date for the closure.
• Conn’s HomePlus is closing three stores in Hampton Roads: 1082 W. Mercury Blvd. in Hampton; 2550 Airline Blvd. in Portsmouth; and 3421 Virginia Beach Blvd. in Virginia Beach. The retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on July 23. Closings dates for the local stores haven’t been announced, but going-out-of-business sales are happening at the locations.
• Posh Wholesale Surf Shop recently opened at 17 1/2 Street in the ViBe Creative District in Virginia Beach.
• Journeys held a grand opening at Norfolk Premium Outlets on July 27, according to a press release.

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June

• Korean fried chicken restaurant Chick N Roll opened June 5 in Hampton, near AMC Hampton Town Centre 24, according to a Facebook post.
• iCollectables Popculture Emporium, a collectible shop that specializes in Funko Pop toys, opened at the beginning of the month in the Williamsburg Premium Outlets.
• School Crossing, a toy and educational specialty store in Monticello Marketplace in James City County, held a grand reopening celebration June 8-13.
• Rite Aid’s location at 1624 Laskin Road in Virginia Beach closed June 13. Its pharmacy closed May 9. Three other locations closed on June 19: 1101 E. Little Creek Road in Norfolk; 324 Virginia Beach Blvd. and 1660 Independence Blvd., both in Virginia Beach.
• Bubba-N-Frank’s Smokehouse BBQ closed its Virginia Beach location on June 13, according to a Facebook post.
• Movie theater EVO Entertainment at Peninsula Town Center in Hampton abruptly closed its doors June 17.
• Centria Autism opened a Life Skills Autism Academy center in Portsmouth on June 17. The center is located at 3225 High St. and is the first in Virginia, according to a press release.
• LoKee Restaurant & Bar held a grand opening at 130 West Washington St. in Suffolk on June 18.
• Peninsula Health Center relocated to its new home at the former Stratford University building, located at 836-A J. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Newport News, according to a press release.
• The Williamsburg Drug Co. at 240 McLaws Circle closed June 21. It consolidated its operation to the store at 1310 Jamestown Road in Williamsburg.
• Gosport Tavern gastropub in Olde Towne Portsmouth closed June 22.
• White’s Old Mill Garden Center and Nursery in the Deep Creek area of Chesapeake closed after 68 years.
• CityVet expanded its veterinary network to Virginia Beach June 24 with a clinic in the Lynnhaven neighborhood at Lynnhaven Parkway and Princess Anne Road. CityVet clinics provide veterinary care, dental care, boarding, grooming, various therapies and healthy pet foods.
• District Apizza closed on June 24, just shy of a year after opening in Norfolk’s Railroad District.
• Lucita’s Express, featuring pupusas and tacos, is open in the former Bliss Bakery location at 1401 Lynnhaven Parkway in Virginia Beach. A grand opening was held on June 24.
• La Brioche, a French bakery in Norfolk’s Neon District, moved into the former Colley Discount Pharmacy location in Ghent. It opened on June 28 at 1415 Colley Ave.
• Burlington opened  a new store in Suffolk’s Harbour View East shopping center on June 28. It’s located at 6253 College Drive #400.

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May

• Funbox brings an inflatable park to Virginia Beach. The four zones of inflatables, totaling 25,000 square feet, opened for the season on May 3. The bounce park is slated to be open through the summer and is located in the Lynnhaven Mall parking lot, between the mall’s movie theater and South Lynnhaven Road.
• Project Seed Coffee held a grand opening on May 4, according to a Facebook post. The new coffee shop serves coffee and pastries influenced by Filipino culture.
• Dollar General’s newly relocated store at 3318 Holland Road in Virginia Beach is open, according to a May 6 press release.
• A new food truck specializing in burritos, Vivi’s Burritos, recently began operations in the Williamsburg area.
• Zaxby’s first Virginia Beach location opened on May 8, according to a news release. It’s located at 2332 Elson Green Ave.
• Paradice, an ice cream and Italian ice shop, held a grand opening on May 11. It’s located at 1906 Frederick Blvd. in Portsmouth.
• Hauser’s Jewelers held a grand opening for its Williamsburg location on Mother’s Day weekend. The new storefront is located at 1325 Jamestown Road.
• Rise Yoga and Wellness, a new Christian-based hot yoga studio in Yorktown, held a grand opening on May 14. It’s located at 4740 George Washington Memorial Highway in Grafton Square.
• Potted, an all-in-one plant shop and tea café, opened in Norfolk’s Selden Market May 14.
• The Riverwalk restaurant along the Yorktown waterfront held a grand reopening on May 14.
• Two Red Lobster locations in Hampton Roads have closed: One at 12580 Jefferson Ave. in Newport News and the other at 2100 Richmond Road in Williamsburg.
• Wawa opened its Outer Banks store, the first of several planned for North Carolina, on May 16.
• Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes located at Settlers Market in Williamsburg has permanently closed, according to a corporate representative.
• A grand opening was held on May 18 for El Ahorro Latin Store in York County. El Ahorro, located at 1900 George Washington Memorial Highway, specializes in a variety of Latin foods, snacks and other products.
• South Moon Under, which sells trendy swimwear and coastal attire, recently opened in Virginia Beach’s Town Center at 4549 Main St.
• Rue21 is closing stores nationwide and plans to close four Hampton Roads locations: MacArthur Center and Janaf Shopping Yard in Norfolk, Patrick Henry Mall in Newport News and Crossways Shopping Center at 1412 Greenbrier Parkway in Chesapeake.
• Column 15 Café and Roastery, a coffeehouse located in the James-York Plaza on Merrimac Trail in Williamsburg, recently expanded after taking over an adjacent storefront. The coffeehouse is now double in size. A grand reopening was held May 18.
• York County held a grand opening for their Law Enforcement Building, which includes the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office, on May 21. It’s located at 159 Goodwin Neck Road in Yorktown.
• Rite Aid’s location at 1808 Salem Road in Virginia Beach closed May 23. Its pharmacy closed April 18.
• Bob’s Discount Furniture opened a new showroom in Chesapeake on May 24, according to a press release. It’s located at 1324 Greenbrier Parkway.
• Beach Barracuda’s Grill near the Dam Neck area of Virginia Beach closed on May 24.
• Aslin Beer Co. opened at 823 Virginia Beach Blvd., a block east of the sports center,  on May 25.
• Men’s urban clothing store Supreme Styles House of Fashion held a grand opening on May 25. It’s located in the Victory Village Shopping Center on Mooretown Road in Williamsburg.
• New York Bagel Company opened May 25 at 200 North Battlefield Blvd. in Chesapeake.
• Gourmet coffee shop Eleva held a grand opening May 31 in downtown Williamsburg at 111 S. Boundary St. in Merchants Square.
• The Playful Educator, a toy and teacher boutique, opened in the Williamsburg Crossing shopping center near The Coffeehouse and Food Lion. It’s located at 5251 John Tyler Highway in Williamsburg.
• Sloppy Sailors, a restaurant specializing in subs, shakes and salads, opened on May 31. It’s located at 4214 E. Little Creek Road in Norfolk.

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April

• Cooking with Greens, a shop with healthier alternative spice blends and kitchen products, opened in downtown Norfolk’s Selden Market on April 5.
• Studio Kuumba, which opened a temporary pop-up shop in Selden Market in January, transitioned to a full-time storefront on April 5. The studio helps adults tap into their creativity through the arts, including painting and making bracelets. The studio hosts group workshops and special events.
• CAVA opened a new restaurant in Hampton on April 5, according to a news release. It’s located at 2033 Coliseum Drive in Peninsula Town Center.
• Mochi Donut & Tea recently opened at 1255 Fordham Drive in KempsRiver Crossing in Virginia Beach.
• Agenda Virginia, a vintage garment shop, held a grand opening on April 6 at 4291 Holland Road in Virginia Beach.
• Onelife Fitness opened March 27 in Hampton’s Coliseum Marketplace. A ribbon cutting and open house were held on April 8.
• Gourmet Burger Bistro opened at 202 E. Washinton St. in downtown Suffolk on April 13.
• Golden Corral in Chesapeake’s Volvo Parkway Shopping Center has closed, according to a WTKR report.
• I Heart Mac & Cheese, a South Florida-based restaurant specializing in customizable, made-to-order macaroni and cheese bowls and grilled cheese sandwiches, opened in Virginia Beach on April 15, according to its website. It’s located at 5168 Princess Anne Road, Suite 142.
• 508 Crafthouse held a grand opening on April 16 for its location at 508 Oropax St. in Norfolk.
• Kusina Filipinio Cuisine held a grand opening at its new location in Suffolk on April 17. It’s located at 6550 Hampton Roads Center Parkway, #107.
• Cork & Kettle, which offers about 30 Virginia and international organic wines and 16 teas, held a grand opening on April 17. It’s located at 420 Monticello Ave. in Norfolk.
• Burger Haven opened April 19 at 916 Great Bridge Blvd. in Chesapeake, according to their Facebook page.
• Cook’s Burger Bar opened the weekend of April 20 in the former Matchsticks BBQ Co. space in Williamsburg. It’s located at 1246 Richmond Road.
• Blue Sky Distillery held a grand reopening on April 20 at 17466 Benns Church Blvd. in Portsmouth.
• Miss Lilly’s Trading Post, a one-of-a-kind consignment shop and market, celebrated its grand opening in Suffolk on April 20. It’s located at 6707 S. Quay Road.
• Vegan restaurant Kahiau’s Bakery & Cafe in Virginia Beach closed on April 21.
• District Taco opened a new restaurant at 2700 Hampton Boulevard in Norfolk on April 23.
• Raising Cane’s opened April 23  in Chesapeake at 1304 Greenbrier Parkway between Volvo and Eden Way.
• Shoe company Hey Dude opened a storefront at Williamsburg Premium Outlets on April 26, according to a Facebook post.
• Virginia Car Wash Co. celebrated its ribbon cutting on April 26. As part of their grand opening, which lasts through May 5, they’re giving away free car washes and free air fresheners. The car wash is located at 4830 Portsmouth Blvd. in Chesapeake.
• Freedom Boat Club hosted a grand opening for its newest location in Newport News located at Deep Creek Landing Marina at 200 Old Marina Lane on April 26.
• Ynot Italian at 1225 Cedar Road in Chesapeake closed.
• S.O.S. Thrift Store — which sells clothing, home décor, housewares, furniture and electronics — opened on Virginia Beach Boulevard, next to Dunkin’ Donuts in Virginia Beach.
• Another Broken Egg Cafe opened at 1550 Laskin Road, Suite 198, in Virginia Beach on April 29.
• Pangaea Coffee Emporium opened a second location on April 29 inside Anderson’s Garden Center in Newport News.

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March

• Monkee’s, a women’s high-end fashion boutique, opened at 103B N. Boundary St. next to William and Harry in Williamsburg on March 1.
• The Family Dollar at 720 Church St. in Norfolk reopened on March 2 after a fire closed the store for more than a year.
• Bread of Life Bakery opened March 2 at 1650 General Booth Blvd., Suite 106, in Virginia Beach.
• The wholesale operations at White’s Nursery at White’s Old Mill Garden Center are shutting down, but the garden center in the Deep Creek area of Chesapeake isn’t going anywhere.
• Teriyaki Madness held a grand opening March 8 in Williamsburg, according to a Facebook post. The Asian fusion restaurant is located at 6497 Centerville Road in the Lightfoot Marketplace shopping center next to the AT&T Store.
• Burlington opened a store at 5900 E. Virginia Beach Blvd. in Norfolk on March 8, according to a release.
• Andora’s Pizza Box reopened as The Box on March 12. It’s located at 2616 Detroit St. in Portsmouth.
• Tastefully Philly held a grand opening for the café located inside the Paperbacks Ink Bookstore at 9716 Warwick Blvd. in Newport News.
• Grit Coffee opened a location in Midtown Row at 100 College Row, Suite 2101, in Williamsburg on March 13, according to a Facebook post.
• Pisco Paradise, a restaurant offering Peruvian dishes, held a grand opening on March 15. It’s located at 500 Central Drive, Suite 107, in Virginia Beach.
• The Plaza, a dessert shop in Virginia Beach, opened March 16. It’s located at 3762 Virginia Beach Blvd.
• Jungle Jamz Play Café, Suffolk’s first indoor play area tailored for children and coffee enthusiasts alike, opened on March 18 at 1238 Holland Road.
• THRIVE Peninsula held a ribbon cutting for their new headquarters at 12749 Nettles Drive in Newport News on March 19. THRIVE moved into the space on Nov. 20, 2023, but the building was under construction. Work is now complete on the building, which hosts a free grocery store inside.
• Longtime William & Mary clothing shop, the Campus Shop, relocated to Duke of Gloucester Street in Merchants Square. The store opened next to Lululemon, at 345 Duke of Gloucester St.
• After less than a year in operation, the 501 Galley restaurant located on Richmond Road in Norge in James City County has closed.
• Biscuit Belly held a grand opening in Norfolk on March 22, according to a press release. It’s located at 2401 Hampton Blvd.
• Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken & Wings held a grand opening in Norfolk at 5900 E Virginia Beach Blvd., Suite 43, on March 27.
• Pop-up shop and business incubator Bloom Market, which features locally made and unique goods, opened March 28 at 719 High St. in Portsmouth.
• A grand opening was held March 29 for Remix Market Williamsburg, a new retail store in Toano in James City County. The shop, an extension of The Junkluggers of Williamsburg, recently opened at 200-3 Industrial Blvd.
• Ice cream shop ELG Sweet Boutique opened at 340 High St. in Olde Towne Portsmouth, inside The Mustard Seed Place. The Mustard Seed Place celebrated a grand opening on March 27.
• Reaver Beach Brewing Co. closed its Norfolk location on March 30.
• Kensley’s Açaí & Café, which serves acai bowls prepared with sorbet, Puerto Rican coffee and sandwiches on house-made Puerto Rican pan sabao, opened at the end of March in the Cahoon Commons shopping center.

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February

• Little Caesars celebrated the grand opening of its new restaurant at 3742 Virginia Beach Blvd. on Feb. 3.
• Cafe Genevieve held a grand opening of its second Hampton Roads location at 317 S. Witchduck Road in Virginia Beach on Feb. 3.
• Dough Haus, offering coffee, donuts and pizza, opened Feb. 6 at 17303 Warwick Blvd. in Newport News, according to Facebook.
• New donut concept Oh! Mochi held a grand opening on Feb. 9 at 4224 Virginia Beach Blvd., Suite 103.
• C.P. Dean, a Richmond-based indoor game furnishings supplier, expanded to Chesapeake. The company opened a 3,700-square-foot showroom, workshop and warehouse at 1244 Executive Blvd. in Greenbrier. The location focuses mainly on the sale of billiard tables, shuffleboard tables, darts and residential and commercial game room furniture.
• HCK Hot Chicken is opening Feb. 10 at 430 N. Newtown Road in Virginia Beach.
• Pixelated Boutique moved from the ViBe District in Virginia Beach to the Hilltop North Shopping Center at 1628 Laskin Road.
• Hello Sweetie Cheesecakes opened on Feb. 10 at 333 High St. in Portsmouth.
• The Community Feed at Berkley opened Feb. 12 at 701 S Main St. in Norfolk, according to a press release.
• Dollar General opened a store on Feb. 13 at 3300 Academy Ave. in Portsmouth, according to a press release.
• One of the only Black-owned ship repair businesses in the U.S. expanded to Portsmouth. Mills Marine and Ship Repair opened a fabrication and training facility on Feb. 22 at 30 Beechdale Road.
• Plaza Bakery moved to 3762 Virginia Beach Blvd. in Virginia Beach and held a soft opening on Feb. 24.
• Hyperbaric Health opened Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy & Red Light Therapy center at 2605 Virginia Beach Blvd., Suite 105, on Feb. 27, according to a release.
• Mod Pizza celebrated a grand opening in Norfolk on Feb. 27, according to a release. The chain is located at 1560 Mall Drive Unit CD-13 at Naval Station Norfolk.

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January

• Dave’s BBQ held a grand opening of its new location at 1009 Laskin Road in Virginia Beach on Jan. 1.
• IncuHub opened a second coworking space at 101 Eaton St. in downtown Hampton on Jan. 1.
• Conte’s Bike Shop moved from 4900 Courthouse St. in Williamsburg to a larger location around the corner at 5105 Main St. on Jan. 2. The new location features a fit area, a cafe and expanded service department.
• The Wandering Sausage food truck launched on Jan. 3. Specializing in Philly cheesesteaks and chicken cheesesteaks along with mild and hot Italian sausages, the food truck stops at breweries and other establishments in the Williamsburg area.
• Precarious Beer Project announced on Jan. 4 its plans to close the Electric Circus Taco Bar located within Precarious Beer Hall. The brewery will begin offering a rotating pop-up food option with new dishes each quarter.
• Choice Korean Food Hall & Pub opened at 12515 Jefferson Ave. #450 in Newport News.
• Grocery store Walkers Market opened in Suffolk at 530 W. Washington St.
• Rite Aid closed three local stores in the span of a week. Its store located at 840 S. Military Highway in Virginia Beach shuttered on Jan. 8. The store at 14260 Warwick Blvd. in Newport News closed on Jan. 9 and one at 5601B Richmond Road in Williamsburg closed on Jan. 10, according to a company spokesperson. The company confirmed the closures of several additional stores in the area.
• Gourmet Gang opened a posh spot in La Promenade, a popular shopping destination in the Hilltop area. The location with upscale decor can host private events and happy hours.
• Torrid held a grand opening at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets near Nike and Michael Kors on Jan. 13.
• Superheroes Ice Cream opened near Lynnhaven Mall on Jan. 13. It’s located at 2724 N Mall Drive in Virginia Beach.
• Voodoo Brewing Co. held a grand opening in Virginia Beach at 300 Constitution Drive, Suite 109, on Jan. 13.
• Farm Fresh in Poquoson announced it’ll close this winter. The renovated store at 460 Wythe Creek Road will remain open until all inventory is sold.
• Crumbl held a grand opening at 236 Carmichael Way in Chesapeake on Jan. 19.
• Wall Street Cafe closed in Suffolk on Jan. 19, according to the Suffolk News-Herald.
• A grand opening for Pet Supplies Plus in Chesapeake was held on Jan. 20, according to a press release. In addition to pet products, the store offers a full-service grooming salon and self-pet wash stations. The store is located at 4107 Portsmouth Blvd.
• A Pet Supplies Plus opened on Jan. 20 at 2129 General Booth Blvd. in Virginia Beach.
• The Salt Life opened in Williamsburg Premium Outlets on Jan. 23. It’s located between Vineyard Vines and Vans.
• Bohemian Amigos Record Shop opened Jan. 26 at 227 Fox Hill Road, Suite C-4, in Hampton.
• The Carol S. and Edward D. Cowell, Jr. Cancer Center opened at 4927 S. Croatan Highway in Nags Head on Jan. 29. For the first time, local cancer patients can receive all services under one roof.
• Crave Bakery + Coffee Bar moved to 200 College Place in Norfolk.

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End of 2023

• Rajput Indian Cuisine opened on Dec. 26 at 2099 Sun Harbour Ave., Suite 115, in Suffolk.
• Bodega Cafe opened on Dec. 23 at 3574 Holland Road in Virginia Beach.
• After 144 years in business, Spertner Jewlers, which was located within Ghent Antiques in Norfolk, closed on Dec. 21.
• Newly renovated Red Roof Inn & Suites opened on Dec. 20 at 16890 Warwick Blvd. in Newport News, according to a press release.
• Assisted living community Regent of Newport News opened in mid-December at 741 Thimble Shoals Blvd.
• Anya Thai Cuisine opened Dec. 11 at 12454 Warwick Blvd. in Newport News.
• Kidtique Hampton opened Dec. 11 at 4400 Kilgore Ave. in Peninsula Town Center.
• First Watch opened its third Virginia Beach restaurant at 1909 Landstown Centre Way on Dec. 11, according to a press release.
• Soulivia’s Art + Soul Restaurant at Hillcrest Parkway in Chesapeake closed Dec. 8, according to the restaurant’s Facebook post.
• Veterinary clinic MyVet opened Dec. 7 at 620 Grassfield Parkway, Suite 150, in Chesapeake.
• Locals Marketplace, a pop-up shop for artisans’ locally made and sourced products, took over the space of The Mic in the former Urban Outfitters spot at the beginning of December in downtown Norfolk.
• Pizza shop Your Pie at 754 Hilltop North Shopping Center in Virginia Beach closed on Dec.4, according to a Facebook post.
• Megallons Gourmet Barbeque at 2424 E Little Creek Road in Norfolk closed Dec. 2, according to a Facebook post.

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Coming soon

• Chef’Store plans to open two stores at 1 Town Centre Way in Hampton and 4001 Virginia Beach Blvd. in Collins Square Shopping Center in Virginia Beach in the second half of 2024, according to a release. The stores will offer fresh produce, meat, beverages, restaurant equipment and more.
• The Wagsters Magic Theatre will relocate to a larger space in the shops at High Street later this year. The theater is currently located at 5535 Olde Towne Road behind Williamsburg Premium Outlets.
• Handsome Biscuit plans to open a second location in Virginia Beach soon. They’re coming to the former Tijuana Flats location at 4224 Virginia Beach Blvd.
• Goodwill will open a second location in Greater Williamsburg this fall. The new store will be located at 4501 News Road.
• A Chicken Salad Chick will open in Chesapeake’s Greenbrier neighborhood in November followed by another location in Settler’s Market near Williamsburg in early 2025.
• The Picklr, dubbed the world’s largest indoor pickleball club, plans to open a franchise location at 120 Gristmill Plaza in Williamsburg in the winter.
• Mr. Rogers Windows outgrew its showroom and warehouse in the Greenbrier area of Chesapeake. A site near the city’s Grassfield High School for a 52,000-square-foot facility is expected to open in early 2025.

These are the businesses that opened, moved locations, or closed last year.

Macy Friend, mfriend@dailypress.com

Beach Ambassadors, VEER and Virginia Craft Beer magazines will host more than 40 breweries looking to claim a top spot, including Harbor Trail Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, Aslin Beer Co. in Virginia Beach and Studly Brewing Co. in Chesapeake. The competition might get brew-tal — last year’s winners will be there: Thin Brew Line (1st) from Virginia Beach, Cova Brewing Co. (2nd) from Norfolk and Tradition Brewing Co. (3rd) from Newport News.

Attendees can spend the afternoon (1-6:30 p.m.) tasting more than 80 beers. General admission tickets ($75) include a souvenir glass, a food voucher ($5 value) for a meal at one of the food trucks, a token to vote for People’s Choice and other cool activities.

Nondrinkers can join the fun too. There will be live music, yard games and a silent auction on tap. Tickets ($25) include nonalcoholic options, a voucher and more.

Beach Ambassadors, a nonprofit, has raised more than $200,000 since launching the event in 2013. This year’s proceeds benefit St. Mary’s Home, Hope House Foundation and other brewer-chosen charities.

For more information, call 757-342-0013; 757battleofthebeers.com.

Rekaya Gibson, 757-295-8809, rekaya.gibson@virginiamedia.com; on X, @gibsonrekaya

They would stop by after dropping his brother off at the nearby Galilee preschool and order their favorites — quiche or “to die for” cruffins. Often, they left with lunch items, and their seasonal favorite was the strawberry croissant.

The bakery, located inside a charming beach cottage, is known for its artisan selection of pastry, pies, quiches and sandwiches. The bake shop posted on social media that Sept. 21 would be its last day. An outpouring of customers posted memories and appreciation for the bakery. The Norfolk location in Ghent will remain open.

Todd, like many of May’s Parlor’s customers, is sad to see the bakery close.

“We will miss the tradition and the lovely dichotomy of the local-tourist community that May’s offered,” Todd said. “Not to mention the yummy food and spirit of community!”

Racheal Browning opened May’s Parlor in 2017. She received her pastry arts degree from the Culinary Institute of America in New York and worked for several NYC bakeries, The Greenbrier and The Regency Hotel before finding the tiny 1940s house at the Oceanfront that she turned into May’s Parlor.

“I always wanted to bring my love of baking home,” the Chesapeake native said.

Browning worked out of two ovens and a 400-square-foot kitchen for her first three years.

“Word got out during COVID times that we were still cranking out artisan baked goods, and it became a pandemic staple,” Browning said. “I felt it was time to expand to a 3,000-square-foot commercial bake shop.”

Shortly after, she added a Norfolk location at 340 W. 22nd St. too.

Browning said the everchanging cruffin, made with laminated croissant dough, was their most viral baked good. She said other fan favorites were the lemon dill chicken salad, breakfast sandwiches on house-made butter brioche buns and the croissant filled with fresh cream and sliced strawberries.

People speculate most businesses close because they’re failing financially, Browning said, but “sometimes, that couldn’t be further from the truth.”

“People forget local small businesses are operated by people just like them,” she said. “People have young children, elderly parents and their own hardships and dreams.”

Browning said she was young, spry and 25 when she opened May’s Parlor. She could easily work 18-hour days in the hot kitchen. Now, she has a toddler and is pregnant with her second child. She has decided to focus on her family.

“I’m always balancing what’s most important to to me,” Browning said. “I’m happy with how our story is ending, and it was an incredible eight years.”

May’s Parlor will honor all their wedding and catering orders throughout the remainder of 2024-2025 through their commercial bake shop. Browning hopes to offer some baking classes and join some farmers markets with a smaller volume of goods.

“I’d love to still share a bit of May’s with the community for as long as I can,” she said.

Lee Belote, jlbelote@verizon.net

The takeout spot opened about three months ago on East Little Creek Road near Shore Drive. Its owner Bruno Diotallezi has had 15 restaurants, including the former 21st Street Deli in Norfolk.

Sloppy Sailors is his latest assignment. It features subs, shakes and salads. The shop uses Dietz & Watson deli meats and 100% beef products for the burgers and hotdogs. The lunch joint has a fun menu with names such as NATO salad (turkey, ham and bacon), Mess Hall (chili cheese fries) and Enlisted (cheeseburger).

I gravitated towards the subs because I had a craving.

The Sloppy Cheesesteak was still warm when I got home. I unwrapped it with anticipation. The 100% Angus beef looked sparse and I removed the soft bun for further examination. It had an adequate amount of meat but less than what I’m used to. I also could see the grilled onions and peppers throughout. I placed the bread back and took a bite. My mood changed. The juicy, seasoned meat brought me joy. Even the melted provolone made its presence known before going down. Don’t underestimate this sandwich until you try it.

Next, I went for The Torpedo, tempted by the ham, salami and provolone peeking from underneath the bread. That thing was huge. Surprisingly, I didn’t taste the explosion of spice from the hot peppers and I’m a lightweight. I did get a surge of sweetness from the other peppers, though. The lettuce, tomatoes, oregano, oil and vinegar played their parts well; it was like eating a mini salad. Together, everything sailed down with satisfaction.

The Commander, however, was top-notch. It was packed with sliced smoked turkey, smoked provolone, tomatoes, onions and house dressing. Lettuce fell out of the bread and onto the table as I took a bite but the flavors were too good for me to stop and clean the mess. A sample turned into a meal. The double-smoked sammich with saucy sweetness held my attention until it was gone. It was insanely good and my favorite sub.

Rekaya Gibson, 757-295-8809, rekaya.gibson@virginiamedia.com; on X, @gibsonrekaya 

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If you go

Where:  4214 E. Little Creek Road, Norfolk

Prices: $9.99 to $11.50 subs

Hours: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Details: 757-917-5800; sloppysailors.info

I recently visited the Poquoson location near Victory Boulevard and Wythe Creek Road and its latest spot at Anderson’s in Newport News.

Business partners Jesse Del Prado and Jay Barnthouse, Air Force veterans, have created an indoor oasis by serving paradise in a cup and on a plate. They’ve kept their travels in mind when developing the atmosphere and recipes. 

Pangaea offers coffee ranging from a French press to red velvet to Dalgona, inspired by candy from South Korea where Del Prado used to live. Dalgona is poured over ice and topped with a cloud-like froth. The coffeehouse has a small selection of treats such as cookies and Japanese-inspired cloud cheesecake. It also provides a few breakfast and lunch items such as oatmeal bowls, a Baja burrito and a Sichuan sandwich with grilled spam, purple and green cabbage, infused with eggs on a ciabatta roll.

In the Poquoson spot, I couldn’t help but “rest, relax and reconnect,” a motto I got from Barnthouse. Artificial plants dangled from the ceiling, sat in nooks and crannies and are strategically placed on the walls like ivy. The jungle theme with modern furniture felt special just like the greeting I got walking into the establishment.

I noticed on the menu that Poquoson has more food options than Newport News. I reviewed items found at both.

Moroccan Mint iced tea was my drink of choice — I’m not a regular coffee drinker. The cool sensation tingled my mouth and gave it a minty fresh smell. The agave wasn’t overly sweet. I took refreshing swigs between chatting with the owners and admiring the decor.

The Newport News location had a cavern vibe reminiscent of Barnthouse’s experience living in Iceland. White cascading structures looked like icicles and were surrounded by fake greenery. It was a neat place to gather after an exhausting shopping trip. I refused to sit on the sleek turquoise couches because I was afraid I wouldn’t get up. Perhaps on my return trip.

I turned my attention to the cloud cheesecake with Ghirardelli ganache prepared by Del Prado. A sample convinced me to take my time; it was scrumptious and I wanted that feeling to last. I saved the rest for later. At home that evening, I warmed the cheesecake in the microwave for 10 seconds, making the filling fluffier and lighter with a little jiggle. Heavenly.

The house-made cookies were also worth the trip. I stopped in my tracks after biting the butterscotch and bacon cookie. “Wow, that was good,” I said out loud. It was a perfect combination of sweet and salty that I didn’t know I needed in my life. I gave it a 10 out of 10 on my imaginary score sheet. It was one of the best treats I had this year.

The Gochujang cookie was unique and delicious too. The spicy snickerdoodle appeared slightly red and was made with a Korean red chili paste. Don’t shy away because of the heat. The sweetness tempered it for a pleasant experience.

The red bean and white chocolate cookie also piqued my interest. I would have never thought to put the two together. They worked. I enjoyed the creaminess that only the white chocolate could provide and the earthiness of the bean — an unforgettable creation.

While I gobbled down the cookies, my colleague sipped on the Arabian coffee, a bestseller at both locations. It came with two shots of espresso and cardamom, nutmeg and cloves. She liked this java but normally drinks a cold brew.

“The spices were similar to a snickerdoodle but not sweet,” photographer Kendall Warner said “The espresso was smooth and with the oat milk, it had a rounded flavor.”

Rekaya Gibson, 757-295-8809, rekaya.gibson@virginiamedia.com; on X, @gibsonrekaya

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If you go

Where: 200 Fountains Lane, Poquoson; 11250 Jefferson Ave., Newport News, inside Anderson’s

Prices: $3.90 to $5.80 coffee; $8.50 cheesecake with ganache; $3.50 cookie or 3 for $9; $6 to $12.50 food

Hours: Poquoson, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Newport News, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Details: bit.ly/PangaeaCoffee; bit.ly/PangaeaNN

Tous les Jours, a French Asian bakery café, features about 300 artisan pastries, gourmet cakes and desserts plus a variety of coffees, teas and blended beverages. The French name means “every day,” a reference to the desserts and artisan bread products that are baked in-store daily.

Hampton Roads franchise owner and South Korea native J.R. Kim opened Tous les Jours on Thursday in Jefferson Marketplace at the corner of Bland Boulevard and Jefferson Avenue in Newport News with 23 employees. He brought the franchise to the region with the help of his wife and co-owner, Julia, who operated a bakery for 18 years in Norfolk.

Tous les Jours, founded in 1997 in South Korea, entered the U.S. market in 2004 and is expanding across the country. Kim said they plan to expand the franchise next year to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake. Their territory covers Virginia Beach to Williamsburg.

“We plan to open five stores in the next five years,” Kim said.

The blend of French and Asian flavors draws in customers. A big seller is the Japanese cloud cakes in various flavors such as green tea and triple berry cloud. The cloud cakes use less butter and sugar than American recipes. This makes a light pastry with a crispy exterior and subtly chewy texture, Kim said.

“It requires a special technique,” he said. “It’s delicate, which makes it soft and tasty. Most people have never tasted a cake like this.”

Among the many cake flavors are chocolate cloud, orange cream and peach cream. Doughnuts come with mango cream, chocolate cream and vanilla cream. French desserts include flavored croissants, handheld pies with classic toppings, macarons and Danishes.

In addition to sandwiches, the shop sells a large selection of artisan breads, including salt and butter rolls, baguettes and milk bread.

“We have so many different types of bread,” he said.

Coffee and tea are standouts, including such beverages as honey lavender matcha latte and caramel macchiato. The company’s beverage research and development specialist, Alexandra Hager, was the 2022 U.S. Coffee In Good Spirits Champion, earned at the U.S. Coffee Championships in Boston.

“The coffee and tea go nice with the desserts,” Kim said.

Tous les Jours has more than 110 locations across the United States and more than 1,740 worldwide, according to its website.

The eatery known by the slogan “Hot Soup for Cool People” moved into the site of a former Arby’s at 1901 S. Croatan Highway nearly a decade ago and was a popular spot for locals and tourists.

“Since December 2014, we have ladled our way through the years serving our wonderful Outer Banks community that has never let us down and we thank you for all of your support, as well as our friends that have come from near and far to visit us while they vacation here, we thank you!” the post said.

The franchise owner and Ladles Soup corporate office did not return requests for comment. The restaurant posted several times in late July and throughout this month that it would be closed due to illness.

“This winter will be a little colder without Ladles soup,” Kill Devil Hills Mayor John Windley said in reply to the farewell post.

At one time, the South Carolina-based Ladles Soups had 12 franchised restaurants, but with the Outer Banks closure, only two are left, one in downtown Charleston and the other in James Island, South Carolina.