CALIFORNIA, Md. — From grand openings and retail expansions to temporary shutdowns and seasonal closures, 2025 was a busy year for Southern Maryland’s business landscape. Restaurants, shopping centers, and longtime local establishments made headlines as they adapted to changing consumer habits, regulations, and economic opportunities.
The BayNet covered it all—from viral closures to exciting new eateries, and from small-town liquor shops to flagship retail announcements. These were the most-read economy and business stories of the year, as chosen by reader interest and total engagement.
Below, we count down the top business stories that shaped our region in 2025:
10. ALDI, Dash In, And More Coming To Prince Frederick
Published: April 5, 2025
By: BayNet Staff
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Summary: ALDI and several other retailers, including Dash In, Michaels, Ace Hardware, and Jersey Mike’s, were announced to be coming to Armory Square in Prince Frederick. The development was planned on the former Calvert Middle School site at 429 Solomons Island Road, with some store openings still pending official confirmation.
9. 5 New Restaurants Opening In St. Mary’s County: Mofongo, Bagels & More
Published: Feb. 24, 2025
By: Jessica Jennings
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Summary: Five new restaurants announced openings in St. Mary’s County, including Boone’s Bagels & Marketplace, El Coqui, Mi Tierra, One-Eyed Jack’s Seafood Market & Deli, and Scramblers, offering a variety of bagels, Latin and Puerto Rican cuisine, seafood, and breakfast fare. The establishments planned to open throughout 2025, bringing diverse dining options and culinary experiences to the county.
8. McKay’s To Open New Liquor Store In Charlotte Hall Station
Published: Jan. 16, 2025
By: Katie Callander
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Summary: McKay’s announced plans to open a new liquor store, McKay’s Grapes, Grains & Gatherings, at Charlotte Hall Station, featuring a wide selection of wines, beers, spirits, cheeses, charcuteries, and home goods. Construction began in early 2025, with the store scheduled to open alongside the new Weis supermarket, offering a unique shopping experience with knowledgeable staff and personalized customer service.
7. Waldorf Restaurant Szechuan Garden Reopens After Temporary Closure
Published: Oct. 30, 2025
By: Jessica Jennings
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Summary: Szechuan Garden in Waldorf reopened after a three-week closure during which it underwent deep cleaning, staff training, and kitchen upgrades. The restaurant passed inspections and resumed normal operations with enhanced safety and sanitation measures in place.
6. 5 Exciting New Restaurants Opening In Southern Maryland: Seafood, Subs, & More
Published: Feb. 6, 2025
By: Michael Caruso
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Summary: Five new restaurants were set to open across Southern Maryland in 2025, including T & J’s Cove, Waldo’s Chicken & Beer, Zaxby’s, Capo Deli, and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. These establishments offered a variety of cuisine, from seafood and Italian sandwiches to fried chicken and frozen custard, expanding dining options for local residents.
5. What’s Coming To Brandywine Crossing? New Dining, Retail And Kids’ Attraction
Published: July 7, 2025
By: Jessica Jennings
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Summary: Brandywine Crossing announced several new dining, retail, and family-friendly additions, including Another Broken Egg Cafe, Buffalo Wild Wings GO, Burlington, Joyland, and Saladworks. The openings were planned through late 2025 and into 2026, aiming to create a more vibrant and convenient hub for Southern Maryland residents.
4. Toys”R”Us Is Opening a New Flagship Store In Maryland
Published: Sept. 24, 2025
By: Carrie Cabral
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Summary: Toys”R”Us announced it would open a new flagship store in Arundel Mills, Hanover, Maryland, as part of its ongoing comeback. The store was scheduled to open in October 2025 and was designed to offer interactive, immersive experiences beyond traditional toy shopping.
3. Annapolis Mall Announces 7 New Stores, Major Expansion
Published: Oct. 20, 2025
By: Carrie Cabral
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Summary: Annapolis Mall announced plans for a major expansion, adding seven new stores and relocating Talbots to a larger space. The additions were part of a 300,000-square-foot growth aimed at enhancing the mall’s appeal and attracting both national and regional brands.
2. Szechuan Garden At St. Charles Towne Center Closed After County Finds Cockroach Infestation
Published: Oct. 8, 2025
By: Jessica Jennings
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Summary: Charles County officials shut down Szechuan Garden in Waldorf after inspectors discovered a severe cockroach infestation that contaminated food and prep areas. The closure followed a viral TikTok video showing roaches in the restaurant, and the eatery remained closed until it passed health and building inspections.
1. Last Call For Crabs: Closures Coming To Local Favorites
Published: Oct. 23, 2025
By: Jessica Jennings
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Summary: Captain Billy’s Crab House in Newburg and Grinders Seafood in Indian Head closed for their seasonal winter breaks in early November 2025, marking the end of the local crab season at these popular waterfront restaurants. Both establishments, known for their classic Maryland seafood and loyal followings, plan to reopen in spring 2026.
Related Year-in-Review Coverage:
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