Plaza’s Food Court Signing Up Tenants

In what city officials say is a sign of Simi Valley’s economic strength, a number of restaurant chains have signed leases to open outlets at the future Civic Center Plaza’s food court.

According to Deputy City Manager Brian Gabler, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, Starbucks Coffee and Quizno’s Subs have made commitments to open stores in the plaza, planned for the west side of Tapo Canyon Road between the Ronald Reagan Freeway and Alamo Street.

They join a list of others, including Baja Fresh and Carl’s Jr. Although not part of the food court, TGI Friday’s has also signed a lease to open a restaurant at the plaza.

The Civic Center Plaza, scheduled to open next year, will also include a 16-screen movie theater operated by Regal Cinemas.

Plans for the plaza hit snags earlier this year when neighbors complained it would be a nuisance and a detriment to their property values.

Developers amended their plans, agreeing to better shield neighbors from the plaza.