Check out the 6 most read stories from Community Impact's Plano coverage in 2025.

1. Luxury bus service adds route from Plano to Austin
A luxury bus service is now offering direct trips between Plano and Austin. Service is provided by Vonlane, a regional transportation company that caters to business and leisure travelers.

2. J. Alexander’s to open first North Texas location in Plano
J. Alexander’s Kitchen and Bar is coming soon to Plano, according to a J. Alexander's representative. The Plano location is set to open in early 2026, followed by a new location in Prosper in summer 2026, according to the representative.

Gloria’s Latin Cuisine has relocated from Frisco to Plano, and its new location is now open, according to the restaurant’s social media.

Quote of note: “We’re excited to bring a modern dining experience to our guests in the Plano and Frisco areas," owner Gloria Fuentes said in a news release. “We can’t wait to share this new experience with our guests.”

First-time visitors to Texas Counter Fitters showroom in Richardson are often surprised to find a museum-like space, where natural stone slabs are showcased alongside diverse styles of artwork.

“People are surprised by the beauty,” Community Engagement Officer Diana Einstein said. “I've invited people here and they wear sneakers and sweatpants because they expect it to be dusty and cold. They walk in and say, ‘I should have dressed up, this is like an art gallery.’”

Chris Blackburn and Andrew Gilbert opened Texas Counter Fitters in 2010 followed by the Richardson showroom in 2020.

The set up: Sandwiched between two indoor showrooms is an outside showroom. Each area features a variety of stone slabs sourced from around the world including Italy, Brazil, Turkey, Cambodia and more.

Blackburn said Texas Counter Fitters focuses on exotic stones.

• 909 N. Bowser Road, Richardson