It’s an exciting time in the Grand Central District (GCD). That much is evident from the neighborhood’s most recent newsletter. We highly recommend you subscribe to it by clicking here.

GCD officials put a juicy little note that the plans for the former Taco Bus lot at 2329 Central Avenue include a beer garden, brewery, and eatery.

Whether these plans come to fruition or not are dependent upon receiving the proper permits.

BBQ joint moves to much bigger space

That’s not all that new in the neighborhood.

If you didn’t happen to catch the Urban Brew & BBQ crew pushing a grill down Central Avenue, then you might not be aware that they’ve closed their original location and moved into the former Urban Comfort at 2601 Central Avenue.

The restaurant is hosting its grand opening January 18-19. There will be more seats, more games and that same savory menu you’ve come to love.

Popular spot for art, music and coffee expands 

Hey, coffee lovers, there’s more reason to celebrate on Central Avenue. Black Crow Coffee, the ultra popular coffee shop/art gallery/music venue is opening a new location in the Grand Central District. More details on an official address and opening timeline are TBA.

One of our favorite local institutions, The School of Rock, is set to host a ribbon cutting on January 25 at 2401 Central Avenue. The Burg’s phenomenal music school has been featured by Forbes and Bloomberg and is open to musicians of all experience levels.

Today, the pedestrian-friendly area, stretching east-west between the 1600 and 3000 blocks of Central Avenue, is filled with people who quit their day jobs to pursue their passion. There are colorful murals, vintage boutiques, yoga studios, coffee shops, brew pubs, tattoo parlors, hair salons, doggie daycares, and a growing list of restaurants. Old buildings have been repurposed; flower boxes planted, and the laid-back, Old Florida hub, designated both a national and state Main Street community, is on the rise.

If you for whatever reason require further evidence of the District’s growth, we’ll just point you to the Boston Globe’s glowing praise for the area.

Historic hotel gets a makeover

Visitors can also look forward to the redevelopment of the historic Mari-Jean Hotel at 2349 Central Avenue, which will add a new outdoor bar and pool for guests. The newsletter also notes a popular local eatery will be opening in the space too.

Metro Wellness and Community Centers also has its grand opening planned for Saturday, February 9 from 2pm-6pm at 3251 3rd Avenue North.

The event will feature a champagne greeting and donation bar, facility tours and a DJ.

Major block party planned on Central Avenue

Of course, you can’t sleep on the 5th Annual Grandiversary Block Party. The celebration takes place on January 19 from 2pm-6pm. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public and will feature more than 30 local vendors along the 2400 Block of Central Avenue.

What’s your favorite Grand Central District business? Let us know in the comments!