New shops and food spots shaping up in Williamsburg and nearby areas

A long-running Williamsburg restaurant has shut its doors after four decades, but new businesses are stepping in to fill the space. The Whaling Co. , a fixture in the area since the 1980s, closed for good in August, leaving a vacant building on McLaws Circle. Now, two big-name chains are vying for the spot—Sheetz wants to build a gas station and convenience store there, while Dutch Bros. Coffee has applied to open a drive-thru café next door. Both companies have already expanded into the Hampton Roads market this year, signaling a push into new neighborhoods. Sheetz, a Pennsylvania-based chain with over 750 stores, has been quietly preparing plans for its location since last year. If approved, the new store would include fuel pumps and a 24-hour convenience section. Nearby, Dutch Bros. , known for its bright blue drinks and Oregon roots, is eyeing the old bank building next door. The coffee shop already has another Virginia location on the way in Grafton, showing it’s serious about growing in the region.Over at The Shops at High Street, Tipsy Beans Café is back after a two-month pause for renovations. The popular spot, famous for boozy coffees and smoothie bowls, expanded into an extra storefront. Its grand reopening drew crowds, proving that people still love its mix of sweet treats and caffeinated kicks. Meanwhile, Waller Mill Park is getting a fresh reason to visit this summer. The Millstone Market will pop up once a month, offering local vendors, food trucks, and live music. The free event runs from June to September on Thursday evenings, giving families a laid-back way to spend time together. Not all changes are welcome—J. Fenton Clothes & Gifts in Merchants Square will shutter its Williamsburg location after May 25, though its online store and Charlottesville shop remain open. On the brighter side, WOLF Martial Arts Academy just celebrated its grand opening in York County, and J&B’s Country Store in Toano expanded its menu with dirty sodas and lunch specials.