From the latest news & highlights to exciting events & specials happenings at all of your favorite places, the Downtown Suffolk Business Buzz is your go-to for all business-related information.

WATCH Downtown Suffolk in 2026

A new year brings fresh energy, and downtown is stepping into 2026 with momentum, creativity, and plenty to savor. With 20+ restaurants offering something for any budget, any appetite, any time of day, there’s never been a better excuse to meet friends for lunch, enjoy a cozy dinner, or discover your next favorite spot after work.

Our arts and culture scene continues to shine. Notice as new pops of color and activities giving a nod to our culture and history begin to appear. Live performances, classes, and rotating exhibits at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts and inspiring exhibitions at the Suffolk Art Gallery will give you even more reasons to linger downtown and experience something new.

We’re excited to welcome new businesses to our downtown family, including AJ’s Downtown Dogs and Kings Restaurant and Hookah Bar. The new year see the opening of the brand new library on West Washington which neighbors the young Downtown Festival Park. These openings reflect the continued confidence and creativity taking root in our historic streets.

Get reacquainted with downtown in 2026. Explore, support local, and rediscover all the reasons Downtown Suffolk is a place to gather, create, and belong.

See you Soon in Downtown Suffolk !

Congratulations to Winners of the Shop Small, Suffolk VA Campaign!

Congratulations to all the winners of the fabulous prizes donated by the following businesses:

A. Dodson's, Hilton Garden Inn, Sushi Aka, Flickerstix, Visit Suffolk and more! For a full list of participating businesses and sponsors visit ShopSmallSuffolkVa.com.

YESTERYEAR AND TODAY

The Elliott Hotel (left) was originally built in 1925 at the height of the Peanut Industry in Suffolk. It was thoughtfuly restored in 2024 by Tymoff+Moss Architects and Commonwealth Preservation Group as luxury apartments. Today, 45 residential units set atop Baron’s Pub and Restaurant and The Hanger at the corner of Market and Main Streets. Scheduled a tour with Petra Properties by calling 757-477-7645. One month rent free is available on select floor plans for a limited time!

AJ's Downtown Dogs Now Open in Downtown Suffolk!

Suffolk Mayor Mike Duman and guests helped AJ and Sherri Johnson cut the ribbon on AJ's Downtown Dogs signaling the offical opening for business. The eatery's hours are: Monday- Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday 10am-7pm and Saturday 11am-4pm. With limited time offerings and an expanding menu, this is a fabulous time to stop in for unique food offerings and fun. It's more than hotdogs (yummy in their own right)!

Downtown Suffolk Eats

New for 2026, we'll highlight a local eatery in Downtown. This month you're invited to experience the award-winning Sushi Aka.

Known for its artfully prepared sushi, creative rolls, and impecably presented dishes, Sushi Aka brings a modern twist to Downtown. Chef/owner Mike Hart has studied under sushi pioneers including Iron Chef's Morimoto. Special attention to detail is provided from ingredients to presentation, reflecting care and pride behind this locally owned restaurant. Sushi Aka is located at 116 W. Washington Street, Suffolk. Call 757-923-1160 or visit susiaka.com to make a reservation today. Be sure to let Mike know you heard all about it in the Downtown Buzz, the official newsletter of Downtown Suffolk!



VisitSuffolkVa is a GREAT resource for all events and activities in Downtown and Citywide. Visit today!