Happy Joe’s, Newk’s Eatery, and South Block lead RestaurantMagazine.com’s Top Ten stories for the week ending April 13, 2025.
1) Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream Welcomes Key Iowa Markets for Development
Happy Joe’s Pizza and Ice Cream, the legendary family-friendly brand known for bringing pizza, ice cream and big smiles to generations of Midwestern families, has officially reopened development opportunities in a trade area rich with history and brand loyalty: eastern and central Iowa.
2) Newk’s Eatery Opens 97th Location in Pascagoula
Newk’s Eatery, known for its fresh salads, sandwiches, soups and pizzas, is opening its 97th location in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This marks the brand’s 30th corporate-owned location and the 17th Newk’s in Mississippi.
3) South Block Soars to 20 Locations
“This is a major milestone in our journey to build healthier, happier blocks everywhere we go,” said Amir Mostafavi, CEO and Founder. “We can’t wait for more and more guests to experience our good vibes, fresh flavors, authentic ingredients, and community-first mission.”
4) Chocolate Bash Welcomes New Franchisees Jahnavi Cherukumall and Tyler Ross Hundtoft to the Sacramento Market
This marks the third Chocolate Bash location in the Sacramento area, reinforcing the brand’s strong presence in Northern California and continued appeal among both customers and entrepreneurs.
5) Boba Cucue Expands to Montana with First-Ever Location in Bozeman
The family-friendly, fun-for-all tea house sets sights on Bozeman with exclusive treats, vibrant vibes, and brand-new franchise partners as it continues its franchise expansion across the U.S.
6) 86DeadStock is The Hospitality Marketplace for Overstock Woes
Founded by longtime industry professional Jeremy Fitzgerald, 86DeadStock was created to solve this very problem: businesses stuck with excess goods they can’t use, while others struggle to find affordable supplies.
7) Grand Opening Celebration of Fresno Paris Baguette Café on April 12 as the Brand Continues to Dominate the Bakery Café Space
Paris Baguette, the bakery café concept with over 4,000 units worldwide, is growing quickly in the US & Canada. With over 200 bakery cafés open in North America and more in development, they are building a strong presence.
8) Angry Chickz Coming in Hot with Houston Debut
Favorite Nashville hot chicken brand set to open in Webster on April 25 with exclusive giveaways, including limited edition jerseys and the chance to win free Angry Chickz for a year.
9) Off The Hook Reels In Shrimp Season with TABASCO Pepper Jelly Sauce
Off The Hook Restaurants is getting extra saucy this spring with its inaugural Shrimp Season, teaming up with fellow Louisiana legend Tabasco for a spiced-up celebration of local seafood served fast and straight from the Gulf.
10) Roosters Takes Flight: Alabama-Based Latin American Eatery Announces Franchise Opportunity
Founded in January 2017, Roosters has built a loyal following, poured into its surrounding community, and garnered national attention. Now, after years of refining its concept, Roosters is inviting entrepreneurs to bring this dynamic brand to new markets.