by | September 15, 2026
Twelve New Openings in Florida This Fall
A new state park, a paddle-sports-obsessed social club, farm-fresh eateries and glittering hotels make a strong case for exploring Florida this fall.
What’s New in North Florida
The Floridian
St. Augustine
This St. Augustine staple relocated from downtown to a modern coastal cottage built from the ground up a few miles away on Anastasia Island. “It feels much more organically us,” says co-owner Genie McNally. In the dining room, Old Florida meets coastal chic with warm wood paneling and modern finishes, while outside, tables are shaded by a canopy of live oaks. A giant black-and-white alligator portrait anchors the space, and the farm-to-table menu leans into the owners’ local roots with dishes like a pork tenderloin served with goat cheese and olive oil and a cornbread stack topped with fresh fish and chimichurri aioli.
thefloridianstaug.com
Dear Sunday Cafe
Tallahassee
All-day brunch is the specialty at one of Tallahassee’s newest eateries, where a sunny patio sets the scene for house-made comfort food served with a Southern accent. Order the Nutty Heaven pancakes and watch warm peanut butter drizzle over the stack, or opt for cold-brew French toast or a crab-cake Benny. “We make it a community feel. There’s nothing better than walking through the restaurant when everybody’s talking,” says co-owner Courtney Atkins. Once a month, Dear Sunday, which shares space with Midtown Reader bookstore, hosts Supper Club, an evening that’s as much about gathering with friends and neighbors as it is about the food itself.
dearsundaycafe.com
Shoal River Headwaters State Park
DeFuniak Springs
Florida’s newest state park opens 2,480 acres of Panhandle wilderness just west of DeFuniak Springs. Hike miles of trails that wind through sandy hills and flatlands with views of Shoal River tributaries. Bring binoculars for spotting blue jays, bobwhite quail and wild turkeys tucked among the pines, then pause for lunch at one of the picnic areas scattered throughout the trail system. The park is part of the state’s Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape, which supports military readiness and other nearby conservation projects.
floridastateparks.org
Hotel Palms: Poolside
Atlantic Beach
When neighboring motor-court hotel Salt Air Inn & Suites was preparing to hit the market, Hotel Palms co-owner and interior designer Julie Schwartzenberger saw an opportunity to expand. “It just lit our eyes up and made sense for us,” she says. Now, Hotel Palms has 26 guest rooms that blend minimalist luxury with vintage charm. Start the day with a latte from Ace Outpost before hitting the beach or lounging away the afternoon poolside, where artist Jason Woodside has transformed the pool deck with his signature bold geometric style.
thehotelpalms.com
What’s New in Central Florida
Epicurean Hotel Historic Suites
Tampa
Hyde Park’s Epicurean Hotel has long been one of Tampa’s premier places to stay, especially for culinary-focused guests, thanks to its prime location in the area’s booming food scene. Now, it has even more to offer. The expansion adds guest rooms, a private lobby, meeting spaces and a rooftop terrace, but one of the coolest aspects is the transformation of a nearby historic apartment building with eight residences into spacious suites with separate dining and living areas, kitchenettes, king beds, sleeper sofas and private outdoor spaces. The project preserves the buildings’ original architectural details while giving them a new purpose. “They’ve long been part of Hyde Park’s character, and we felt a responsibility to preserve that history,” says Joe Collier, president and founder of Mainsail Lodging & Development. The result blends old Tampa charm with modern comforts and a fresh take on the neighborhood’s history.
epicureanhotel.com
Kappo Tsan
Orlando
If you’re a fan of omakase but prefer a more relaxed, intimate experience, then Kappo Tsan in Orlando’s O-Town West neighborhood may be exactly what you’re looking for. “Kappo” means “to cut and cook” in Japanese and “Tsan” is the Taiwanese family name of Executive Chef David Tsan. This 2026 Michelin Guide dinner destination allows guests to experience the traditional kappo cooking style, in which the chef prepares the meal right in front of you.
kappotsan.com
Bosc Modern Bar + Kitchen
Tampa
Maybe it’s the sunny yellow chairs and welcoming patio, or the extensive menu ranging from classic brunch staples to sushi to artisan flatbreads, but there’s something about Bosc Modern Bar + Kitchen in Tampa that makes you want to post up and stay awhile. That was the intention of Main Street Entertainment Group, the visionary behind this community hub where you can pop in for camaraderie or a bite from morning till late night.
bosctampa.com
St. Pete Athletic
St. Petersburg
Raise your paddle if you play pickleball, table tennis or padel. St. Pete Athletic is the only facility in the state that offers all three sports under one roof. It’s also a social club with all-day dining and cocktailing, plus events like trivia and mixology classes. While the club is open to the public, a membership offers exclusive perks. It’s a place “where athletics, wellness and social life come together in the heart of our city,” says Director of Marketing Luke Burton.
stpeteathletic.com
What’s New in South Florida
The Nora Hotel
West Palm Beach
New York hospitality meets Mediterranean ease at The Nora Hotel, an anchor of West Palm Beach’s fast-growing Nora District. Developed by BD Hotels and inspired by architect Addison Mizner’s signature Florida revival style, the 201-room boutique property pairs handcrafted tile, warm terracotta tones and airy interiors with a distinct sense of place. On the ground floor, the celebrated French bistro Pastis from restaurateur Stephen Starr welcomes discerning palates, while two bars, private cabanas, a pool and panoramic views create a rooftop escape that feels an ocean away from Clematis Street.
norahotelwestpalm.com
Olde Naples Hotel
Naples
Old Florida charm finds new life at Olde Naples Hotel, a boutique retreat in Naples’s historic Third Street District. Built on the site of the original 1889 Naples Hotel, the city’s first hotel, the 109-room property honors its roots with vintage photographs, curated antiques and subtle reminders of the landmark that once welcomed generations of visitors. Designed by acclaimed firm Hart Howerton, the white clapboard building pairs historic character with modern comforts through palm-inspired interiors, gold accents, a rooftop pool and Annie’s Bistro, its signature restaurant.
opalcollection.com
Gigi Rigolatto
Miami
Miami becomes the latest glamorous address for Gigi Rigolatto, joining Paris, Saint-Tropez, Rome, Dubai and Bodrum. Set at the newly reimagined Delano Miami Beach, the stylish Italian restaurant blends Riviera flair with the oceanfront energy of South Florida. Poolside tables, private beach cabanas and views of turquoise waters set the stage for grilled octopus, lemon spaghetti, seasonal specialties and creamy pistachio gelato. Serving up equal parts atmosphere and taste, a dedicated Bellini Bar keeps the sparkling cocktails flowing, making it just as tempting for a boozy brunch as a big night out.
gigi-restaurant.com
Sweetwaters
Fort Lauderdale
For those who love Fort Lauderdale’s laid-back vibe but never skip an excuse to get dressed up, Sweetwaters will offer a fresh take on waterfront dining when it opens this fall overlooking the New River. “The idea is to be this approachable but elevated place,” says General Manager Ashley Ermus. Floor-to-ceiling windows and jewel-toned accents create an elegant backdrop with expansive views of the city. Mornings begin with coffee and pastries, while evenings give way to a lively dinner crowd along the riverfront. On the menu, expect dishes like a hot seafood tower bathed in butter and shrimp risotto.
sweetwatersrestaurant.com
