NorthTown Mall’s $8.5 million redevelopment of its north entrance has resulted in a shuffling of retailers and restaurants, with some new stores opening in the shopping center.  

“Basically we’ve given our Queen Avenue entrance a facelift,” says John Shasky, general manager for NorthTown. “It’s a really positive upgrade, and we’re excited to see what it brings for the future.” 

Two new restaurants opening in the redeveloped space early this coming year will be Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill, both owned by Bloomin’ Brands Inc., a national restaurant group. 

“Some of the spaces haven’t been built out yet, but we are in the process of pursuing opportunities to add to our current merchandise mix and continue to grow,” says Shasky. 

Also newly added in the north wing is an Internet Café where customers can relax while shopping. 

“The café includes comfortable furniture with ports for charging various devices, big screen TVs, as well as a play area for kids,” says Shasky. 

Urban Blends coffee shop, which previously had just one kiosk on the mall’s first floor near Sears, now has an additional location within the Internet Café. 

“They’ve done really well over the years that they’ve been here,” Shasky says of the coffee shop. “We’re excited for them to continue their success in this new space.” 

Stores that previously were relocated to other parts of the mall during the redevelopment, but have since moved back into the north wing, include LensCrafters, Northwest Beauty Supply & Salon, Q-Nails, Hi-Tek Nails, Motherhood Maternity, Maurices, Pink Cadillac, and Drop In & Play, he says. The improvements also involved relocating Macy’s Women’s World and shoe stores, he says. 

Rue 21 also was relocated to the first floor, opening in a new and expanded space next door to Buffalo Wild Wings, Shasky says. The store has added a plus size department and a section for men, he says.

As reported earlier, the redevelopment project has included updates to an estimated 120,000 square feet of space between the Macy’s and Kohl’s department stores, with new entrances, space for new retail stores and restaurants, and a newly configured and landscaped parking area.