Twelve new businesses are set to open in a shopping center located south of Tampa Bay.
University Town Center (UTC) near Bradenton is set to enhance its retail and dining landscape with an ambitious expansion plan. This initiative, slated to unfold between 2025 and 2026, will introduce a variety of new shopping and dining options to the bustling area situated at the intersection of University Parkway and North Cattleman Road in Sarasota.
Among the most notable additions to the UTC is a pair of new restaurants from award-winning chef Chris Ponte. These establishments will be located on North Cattlemen Road, directly across from the popular Ford’s Garage. Ponte’s portfolio will expand with the opening of Olivia, a modern Italian eatery named in honor of his daughter. The restaurant, which originally launched in South Tampa in 2019, will take up 6,500 square feet at its UTC location, marking its third establishment. Additionally, the contemporary American restaurant On Swann, which has garnered a Michelin Guide recommendation at its original Tampa location, will occupy 5,000 square feet at UTC. Ponte has expressed excitement about entering the Sarasota market and aims for both restaurants to complement each other through their proximity.
A diverse array of culinary ventures is also on the horizon for UTC’s West District. Spanish tapas restaurant Bulla Gastrobar is expected to debut in 2026, positioned near furniture retailer Ethan Allen. Meanwhile, Blu Kouzina, an establishment specializing in Greek cuisine originally from St. Armand’s Circle, will open later this year adjacent to Ford’s Garage. Another addition, Zōtō, a Japanese izakaya featuring sushi and craft cocktails, is anticipated to launch this summer, further diversifying the dining options available.
Consumers can also look forward to the arrival of Rita’s Italian Ice, set to open in late spring or early summer in the Shoppes at UTC, conveniently located next to the Sprinkles cupcake shop. In a noteworthy development for outdoor enthusiasts, L.L. Bean announced its first Florida store opening on May 9, strategically situated near the Target store in UTC’s West District.
Additionally, City Furniture is preparing to unveil a showroom in a substantial 120,000-square-foot building adjacent to Tesla in UTC’s East District, with the opening planned for later this year. The Mall at UTC, which has been operational since 2014, will also welcome new stores including Design with Reach, Garage, and jewelry retailer Gorjana, enriching the shopping experience.
UTC, a project by Benderson Development, spans over 4 million square feet, encompassing a diverse range of retail, dining, lodging, and office spaces. For further information, visit Media News Source.
