The Volusia-Flagler region in Florida saw the opening of at least five new restaurants and cafes in February, ranging from health-conscious cafes to barbecue spots and Mexican cantinas. These establishments introduce fresh dining options amid the evolving local food scene. Highlights include a build-your-own experience bar in Flagler Beach and a gluten-free Italian ice shop in New Smyrna Beach.
Florida's dining landscape in the Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, and Flagler areas continued to evolve in February, with several closures offset by promising new openings. According to local reports, five notable establishments launched or began soft operations during the month, offering diverse menus from barbecue to Mexican fare and health-focused bites.
Bee Fly Grab N Go Cafe opened in Port Orange at 4647 S. Clyde Morris Blvd, Unit #501, in the former Pony Bar location within Radiant Studios hair salon. The menu features made-to-order items such as smoothies, salad bowls, wraps including the veggie panini and Greek wrap, a rotating soup of the day, breakfast options, and coffee with alternative milks like oat and almond available for an extra charge.
In Flagler Beach, Charboozie Before & After Bar at 213 S. 2nd St., Unit 1, held its official opening and ribbon-cutting. Described on social media as a “build-your-own experience bar,” it serves wine, craft beers, and mocktails, allowing patrons to create boards, boxes, bouquets, and more with flowers and charcuterie. Upcoming events include the Wine Bites & Brew tasting on March 18.
Costa Del Sol Cantina in New Smyrna Beach at 1414 S. Atlantic Ave. started a “train with us” soft opening in late February under owners Joe Ryan and Jeremy Miller, who also host a podcast. The spot, previously La Terraza, plans a grand opening in early March. Owner Ryan told The News-Journal that the menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and Mexican flavors, including street tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, and various margaritas, cocktails, and mocktails.
Lemons Italian Ice & Gluten-Free Treats opened at 431 Canal St. in New Smyrna Beach, in the former Beachin’ Burritos space. The family-owned shop provides dairy-free and gluten-free Italian ices in flavors like cotton candy, root beer, honey dew, and pineapple, along with toppings, sugar-free options, ice cream, gluten-free baked goods such as muffins and cookies, and fresh squeezed lemonade.
Third Wave Smokehouse began serving at the end of February at 218 N. Orange St. in New Smyrna Beach. This fast-casual barbecue restaurant, a sister to Third Wave Café & Wine Bar, offers outdoor seating and is adjacent to Sugar Works Distillery, where customers can pair meals with cocktails. Past menu items have included brisket tacos, smokehouse chili, sausage plates, rib platters, and smoked fish dip, with updates available on social media.
Local diners are encouraged to check social media or contact the eateries for current details, as offerings may rotate.