DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Orlando City Ranking in Sports Business Journal's Top Soccer Cities List
The City Beautiful ranked 11th in Sports Business Journal's soccer cities list. This year's list focused on elements such as long-term tenure of teams in the market, presence of new or upgraded venues, frequency of high-profile soccer events hosted, sponsorship opportunities, and input from industry insiders. The publication — a sister paper of the Orlando Business Journal — highlighted the region's large number of soccer events with more than 60, including tournament games, U.S. national team friendlies and international club matches. Orlando will also be the only 2025 FIFA Club World Cup host city with two stadiums where games will take place: Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium. Read the full OBJ article HERE!

Sparrow Wine Bar Now Open Downtown
Good Salt Restaurant Group's latest concept, Sparrow Wine Bar, is now officially open in the North Quarter. Just steps away from the James Beard-nominated group's Reyes Mezcalaria restaurant, Sparrow is a cozy new lounge experience inspired by the flavors of Southern Europe. Sparrow’s menu, curated by executive chef and partner Wendy Lopez, draws from her heritage and culinary influences from France, Portugal, and Italy. The 80-seat venue includes a six-person bar offering a curated selection of Old and New World wines, as well as classic cocktails and fine spirits. Visit www.SparrowOrlando.com/ to see the menu and make reservations.

Orlando Magic Unveil New Logo
The Orlando Magic unveiled a new logo and three updated uniforms during a celebration at the Kia Center on Tuesday, marking a fresh chapter for the franchise. The redesigned logo brings back the iconic star symbol, blending nostalgia with a forward-looking “reach for the stars” mentality that reflects the team’s championship aspirations. Orlando Magic Executive VP and DOP Board Member, Shelly Wilkes, emphasized that the new look is a tribute to fan input and a representation of the organization’s commitment to excellence both on and off the court. This launch signals the beginning of a new era while honoring the club’s rich history. Read more and see the Orlando Magic's new logo and uniforms HERE!

Dean Mead Welcomes Newest Estate Planning Attorney
Dean Mead is proud to announce the addition of Tom Colpitts to the firm's Estate Planning team. His practice focus will include all aspects of personal estate planning, such as the preparation of revocable trusts and wills, as well as advising clients on the succession of family businesses, and the transfer of wealth among generations in a tax-efficient manner. "Dean Mead is excited to welcome Tom to our estate planning team” shares Matthew Ahearn, a senior leader with the firm’s Estate Planning practice. “As a promising attorney with a strong foundation in legal principles and a clear passion for advocacy, Tom brings fresh perspectives which align with our firm’s commitment to helping our clients secure their legacies.” Click here to learn more about Tom and Dean Mead's various practice areas.

Bite30 is Back!
Bite30 is the perfect excuse to treat yourself and try a new – or tried and true – restaurant. Running from now through July 13, explore special $38 prix fixe menus at participating downtown restaurants like DOP Members Acropolis Greek Taverna, Sushi Saint, and The Drake Kitchen + Bar.  No special discount code need, just asked for the Bite30 menu for delicious discounts!

Orlando Advances $60M Lake Eola Overhaul Plan
The City of Orlando is poised to select Wharton-Smith Inc. as the contractor for the $60 million Lake Eola master plan projects. This extensive revitalization includes significant upgrades such as new terraced seating, expanded play zones, and, "The Cove," a reimagined swan boat rentals and events space. Visitors can also look forward to the expanded Washington Street Plaza and amphitheater enhancements, along with new restroom pavilions and a rebuilt Relax Grill restaurant. While the construction timeline is not yet set for these projects, the city is also separately working on a new southwest entryway, expected to be completed by summer 2027. Read more about the master plan here.