new openings — If you’re looking for a new space to collaborate, check out Workshop in Homewood. (Workshop)

Monday is here again, but fear not—we’re brightening your week with five new businesses that are open now and coming soon.

Are you ready to dive in? Get ready to check out this week’s top picks.

1. Champs Sandwich Shop | Bessemer

hot new openings — Just look at that Polish Sausage! (Champs Sandwich Shop)

Move over homemade sammies, Champs is coming out swinging in Bessemer with their world-class sandwiches, burgers and hot dogs. Their food has been known to be a hit in their first couple of weeks, so they’ll be one to watch.

They’re also known for a creation known as “freaky fries” which we’re dying to try. With the option to get one or two meats on your fries—its a no brainer. Who said fries couldn’t be a whole meal?

Location: 216 19th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020
Contact: Website | Facebook

2. Workshop | Homewood

Ever wanted fresh inspiration, network opportunities or simply want to learn a new skill? It’s time to check out Workshop—Homewood’s newest concept for local creatives. Founded by a Homewood local, Katherine Thrower, this new spot will focus on collaborative work. Why? Because investing in yourself is the best form of self-care.

This new creative classroom is so close to parks, coffee shops, restaurants and so many other new businesses, so you can foster those new relationships outside of the classroom. Keep up on their website or Instagram—we’re already looking forward to seeing the space.

“Workshop is built on the idea that investing in knowledge is investing in yourself. Our goal is to bring both personal and professional topics to the Birmingham community in a unique way, and we are excited to offer a variety of classes each month taught by local authors, artists, chefs, designers, florists, teachers, stylists and various business professionals who will share their own expertise and passions.”
-Workshop, according to a recent press release

Location: 186 Oxmoor Rd #220, Homewood, AL 35209
Contact: Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Tina and Gina’s Sandwich Shoppe | The Pizitz

Tina and Gina’s is bringing a taste of New York City down South. This new deli will be owned by Christina Harrison, New York born and Atlanta raised. It’s named after Harrison’s mother and grandmother, some of her biggest inspirations.

Menu highlights? A Chopped cheese, Italian sub and Pastrami sandwiches are all the rage—talk about delicious. However, they offer much more than sandwiches with offerings such as soups, truffle fries, potato salad and grab-and-go options for those of us who might be on a lunchtime crunch. Catch them opening this spring—we can’t wait.

Location: 1821 2nd Ave N #3112, Birmingham, AL 35203
Contact: Socials coming soon—keep up with The Pizitz Food Hall.

4. K&J’s Elegant Pastries | Uptown

K&J's Elegant Pastry — Photo via K&J’s Elegant Pastry’s Facebook

For those of us who have a major sweet tooth, get ready to sweeten the deal with a new K&J’s Elegant Pastries coming to Uptown. Among their biggest fans: Mayor Woodfin. He posted a picture with owner Kristal Bryant and safe to say—it went viral.

The new location will feature favorites like: indoor and patio seating, new desserts (crazy sundaes) and savory bites like sandwiches. They’ll be closing their doors in Alabaster, but looking forward to a new beginning in the heart of The Magic City.

Location: next to Eugene’s Hot Chicken
Contact: Website | Facebook | Instagram

5. Taco Bell | Leeds

Everyone’s favorite late-night spot has officially re-opened their doors in Leeds. After months of construction, this existing location got a complete makeover. If you haven’t been lately, now’s the time to check it out.

Whether you’re team Crunchwap Supreme, Chicken Quesadilla or Nachos Bell Grande, we can all agree that the Mountain Dew Baja Blast is where its at. What are you waiting for? Stop by for lunch or dinner today—or check out their breakfast menu tomorrow morning, we won’t judge.