Orlando Unplugged: January News & Updates

Orlando and Central Florida welcomed a flurry of new openings, neighborhood updates, and milestones last month. From vibrant murals and exciting retail debuts at Lake Nona, to Winter Park bakeries and Ivanhoe Village’s marketplace, the region is buzzing with creativity, local flavor, and community-driven developments. Plus, we reflect on longtime favorites closing their doors and honor beloved local personalities who left a mark on the city. Here's everything that happened in December of 2025.

Originally published on January 1st, 2026. Updated for accuracy.

Curry Ford West Welcomes Colorful New Mural

A splash of vibrant color now greets visitors at the corner of Curry Ford Road and Crystal Lake Drive. Local artist and teacher Valeria Malaria, who calls herself a “full-time weirdo,” painted the mural on the side of Alona’s Food Affair, a new kids’ cooking and craft studio. The artwork adds to Curry Ford West’s growing reputation for celebrating local creativity, small businesses, and neighborhood pride—definitely worth a quick stop if you’re driving by.

Sephora & JETSET Pilates Set to Open at Lake Nona West

Lake Nona West is expanding its lineup of national retailers with Sephora and JETSET Pilates, joining brands like Target, Nordstrom Rack, and Barnes & Noble. This 405,000-square-foot lifestyle center, minutes from Orlando International Airport, is designed to blend shopping, dining, and wellness across 54 walkable acres. Shaded promenades, art-lined plazas, and a high-speed EV charging hub make it a destination for lifestyle-driven retail and self-care when it debuts in summer 2026.

Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Coming to Winter Park

The longtime-empty corner at Morse Boulevard and Pennsylvania Avenue will soon buzz with the aroma of Colombian treats. Mecatos Bakery & Cafe, known for empanadas, pan de bono, and fresh coffee, plans to open in 2026, taking over the former home of The Coop. The move brings new energy to Winter Park and a tasty taste of Colombia for locals to enjoy.

Ivanhoe Village Gains Upscale Furniture Marketplace

A new furniture marketplace has opened in Ivanhoe Village at 1900 Alden Road, transforming the former Garden Tiger warehouse. Shoppers can browse designer furnishings, showroom samples, and overstock pieces at more accessible prices. This addition continues Ivanhoe Village’s evolution as a hub for creative retail, dining, and lifestyle offerings.

New NY-Style Pizza Shop Heads to Curry Ford West

Chef Omar Perez, formerly of Gnarly Barley in Ivanhoe Village, is opening Raine’s Pizzaria at 2401 Curry Ford Road. Named after his daughter, Raine, the shop will serve classic New York-style pizza, fresh salads, and more. Follow @rainespizzaria on Instagram for soft-opening updates as Curry Ford West welcomes another local restaurant.

Trader Joe’s Plans Maitland Location

Trader Joe’s is officially headed to Maitland with a roughly 12,500-square-foot store, part of the growing development around the Trelago district. While details like the exact address and opening date are still under wraps, local shoppers are already imagining the impact on traffic.

Downtown Orlando’s Tanqueray’s Closes After Nearly 37 Years

After almost four decades of live music, drinks, and community, Tanqueray’s Bar closed its doors on New Year’s Eve. Owner and longtime hospitality veteran celebrated 49 years in the business while retiring on the bar’s final night. Downtown loses a staple, but patrons and musicians alike remember the energy and legacy Tanqueray’s leaves behind.

The Baker’s Son Brings Filipino Flavors to Kissimmee

Celebration of Filipino-American bakery culture has arrived in Central Florida with The Baker’s Son opening at 4797 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy. The bakery serves fresh breads, pastries, and Filipino favorites like ube cheese melts, ensaymada, and tapsilog. Chef Jun Valerios emphasizes freshness, quality ingredients, and affordability, inviting locals to experience authentic Filipino baking.

Edgewater Drive Teases Future Market Destination

A new sign hints at Edgewater Market Gardens, a proposed retail and dining hub in College Park targeting a Fall 2026 debut. While tenants haven’t been announced and construction hasn’t started, the project marks a potential revitalization for the corridor. Current businesses, like Form Function Form, remain open as plans slowly develop.

Next Phase Begins for Pulse Nightclub Memorial

The City of Orlando is carefully removing interior artifacts from the Pulse Nightclub site to preserve them for a future permanent memorial. Items including chandeliers, flooring, and signage will be stored while design and construction planning continues, aiming for late-2027 completion. For a community that has waited nearly a decade, this marks a meaningful step toward remembrance and reflection.

Orlando YouTuber Passes Away at 51

Celebration resident and beloved YouTube vlogger Adam The Woo, born David Adam Williams, was found deceased on December 22nd, 2025. Known for documenting his adventures across Central Florida and beyond, Adam inspired a loyal following with his daily videos exploring theme parks, abandoned sites, and local culture. Tributes from fans and fellow creators highlight his enduring impact on the YouTube community and Orlando’s local scene.