Carly Cooper

Fresh off the opening of Mediterranean-inspired Ela in Virginia-Highland, Fifth Group Restaurants ( La Tavola, Ecco, Alma Cocina, South City Kitchen ) is reimagining another of its long-time staples. Midtown seafood spot Lure, known for the massive anchor that sits outside its front door, is closing September 2. Just a week later, Lure Saltwater Kitchen and Bar will take its place. The new Lure will continue to focus on sustainable seafood but will do so with small plates prepared on a just-installed wood-fire grill. The interior is being refreshed, a patio bar is in the works, and the beverage program is changing, too.

Fried whole red snapper with three-flavor chili sauce, fried okra, and eggplant

The Queen of Hearts High Tea delights adults and children alike

Plan to expand hours and wine selection, with small décor changes to come

Little Tart Bakeshop and Big Softie owner Sarah O’Brien just launched the second outpost of her soft-serve ice cream shop—the original opened in Summerhill in 2019. Located at 632 North Highland Avenue, Big Softie is just a few doors down from Colette Bread & Bakeshop, which was started by O’Brien’s friend and first-ever Little Tart hire, baker Sarah Dodge.

Loren Rosko turns back the clock as the star of Damsel cabaret

Named for a deceased friend, it resides in the former Serenidad space

The restaurant and market is targeting a winter launch on the ground floor of Scout Living

Austin-born Tex-Mex shop boasts scratch-made food with a cult following

We spoke to three of last year’s winners, and there was a clear consensus on the “Michelin effect.”