Grumpy’s Restaurant Announces New Location Coming to Fleming Island, FL

January 21, 2026 // Franchising.com // JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Grumpy’s Restaurant is proud to announce that the franchisees behind its successful Middleburg, FL location have officially signed on to open a new Grumpy’s in Fleming Island. The expansion marks an exciting milestone for both the franchise partners and the beloved Jacksonville brand and is anticipated to open in Q1 of 2026.

After launching their Middleburg location in 2020, the Hoard family were faced with a difficult setback after an equipment fire caused major damage to the restaurant in 2022. Upon re-opening in 2023, they were thrilled with the welcome back they received from the community. The Hoard family loved how being Grumpy’s franchisees allowed them to give back to their neighbors and knew that they would one day want to grow their partnership with the brand. The Hoards are thrilled to finally be taking that step in the continuation of their journey with Grumpy’s, working alongside Daniel and Morgan DeLeon, Grumpy’s President & CEO and Vice President of Operations, as they expand the brand’s reach in Florida.

“Our experience as Grumpy’s franchisees has been exceptional,” said Dell Hoard Jr. “Running our first location has been challenging in the best possible way; it’s the kind of work that feels meaningful. The DeLeons have cultivated a culture of real partnership and their hands-on support in training, operations, and leadership has given us the confidence to grow. Getting to know our regulars, hearing their stories, and watching families make Grumpy’s part of their routine is something we truly cherish, and we can’t wait to continue this in Fleming Island.”

The Hoards’ decision to become multi-unit franchisees was driven by the strength of the brand’s model, their personal ties to the city and the loyal following it has in the area. Grumpy’s continues to be a standout in the Best of Bold City Community’s Choice Awards presented by The Florida Times-Union and Jacksonville.com. This year, the restaurant earned five honors, including Best Restaurant Overall and Best Breakfast for the seventh consecutive year, as well as Best Brunch, Best Chef, and Best Locally Owned Business—underscoring the brand’s success and strong local following.

“The thoughtful systems in place and warm culture are something we believe in wholeheartedly,” said Courtney Hoard. “Expanding within Clay County is deeply personal, having both grown up here and raised our family here. Bringing Grumpy’s to Middleburg was special, but bringing it to Fleming Island feels like building a lasting family footprint in our hometown.”

With deep roots in Northeast Florida, Grumpy’s Restaurant continues to grow as a community staple while staying true to its mission of quality, consistency, and genuine hospitality. With five Jacksonville locations, Grumpy’s is known for made-from-scratch, made-to-order comfort food served with warm Southern hospitality at a working-class price. The breakfast, lunch, and brunch menu features rotating chalkboard specials alongside classics like pancakes, omelets, sandwiches, soups and salads.

“Our Middleburg franchisees have built something truly special and watching them grow into multi-unit owners is incredibly meaningful,” said Daniel DeLeon, President & CEO of Grumpy’s Restaurant. “Their commitment to their guests, their team, and the Clay County community reflects everything we believe in as a brand. Bringing Grumpy’s to Fleming Island is another proud moment in our shared journey, and I know they will thrive in their new location.”

SOURCE Grumpy’s Restaurant

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