One of my favorite things to do in Santa Clarita is discovering new local spots to enjoy with my family. Whether it is grabbing a meal with my husband and two sons, stopping by somewhere new after a long day or turning dinner into a simple family outing, I love seeing our local business community thrive.

Supporting small businesses has always been important to me, and it is rewarding to watch our city continue to grow in ways that bring people together.

Over the years, Santa Clarita has built a strong reputation for being responsive, predictable and welcoming to entrepreneurs. Our Economic Development team works closely with business owners to help them open, expand and succeed, offering guidance and support every step of the way. From family-owned shops to nationally recognized brands, businesses know they can find true partnership here. That trust matters, especially for small businesses taking the important step to open or grow.

That commitment is reflected in the economic momentum we continue to see across the city. New storefronts are opening, dining options are expanding, entertainment choices are growing and there are more reasons than ever for residents and visitors to stay local, explore and spend time in Santa Clarita.

In 2025, that momentum was recognized once again when Santa Clarita was named the most business-friendly city in Los Angeles county in the BizFed 2025 Pulse Poll for the third straight year. The poll includes feedback from more than 1,200 business and civic leaders across the region. Being selected for this recognition speaks to the environment our city has worked hard to create and maintain. It reflects years of thoughtful planning, collaboration and a shared commitment to supporting local businesses, and plays an important role when businesses decide where to invest, hire and put down roots and it helps keep our local economy strong and competitive.

Residents see the benefits of this success in their everyday lives. In 2025, Santa Clarita welcomed a diverse mix of new businesses offering something for families, couples and visitors alike. Dog Haus on Golden Valley Road provides a fun and casual dining experience, while Booku PoBoys brought the bold flavors of New Orleans to Canyon Country. Sweet Red Peach on Bouquet Canyon Road introduced sweet treats that are always made from scratch, and Café 86 on Newhall Ranch Road offers a modern café experience, serving ube drinks, lattes and pastries. Looking for a cozy place to enjoy coffee, relax and spend time with adoptable cats while supporting local animal rescue efforts? You’re in luck: Catfe on Via Princessa Drive is for you. Most recently, Sky Zone opened a new location on Carl Boyer Drive, expanding family-friendly indoor fun and giving kids and teens a place to jump, play and stay active year-round.

That momentum continues into 2026, with several new businesses already slated to open. Yard House is coming soon to Magic Mountain Parkway, bringing a lively dining experience that will feature an extensive menu, a wide selection of beers and a welcoming atmosphere that is sure to be a hit! McBean Parkway will soon be home to CAVA and will offer a fresh, fast-casual dining option serving customizable Mediterranean-inspired bowls and wraps made with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Each of these openings is meaningful on its own, but together they show that Santa Clarita’s commercial areas are active and diverse, with businesses choosing to invest here because they believe in the community. These additions support daily life, create jobs, drive investment and strengthen the local economy, reinforcing why Santa Clarita continues to be recognized as the Most Business Friendly city in Los Angeles county.

I encourage families and couples to visit these new local spots, try something new and continue supporting the businesses that support our community. When we shop and dine locally, we help strengthen our economy and support the roads, parks and services that make Santa Clarita such a great place to live and visit.

Councilmember Patsy Ayala is the Mayor Pro Tem of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at payala@santaclarita.gov.