OXNARD, CA—The Collection at RiverPark has signed more than 16 new leases with restaurant tenants. The retail center is aiming to become a food center in Ventura County. Currently 10 of the restaurants signed are open and operating while six more are currently under construction and other leases are in negotiations.

The restaurants include a mix of local and national brands. Restaurants already open and operating are Kabuki Japanese Restaurant, Gen Korean BBQ, Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana, Famous Dave's BBQ and Yard House. In June, Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill and Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar will open their doors, while four other restaurants have openings planned at the center this year: Larsen's Grill, Maria's Italian Kitchen, Sabra Fish Grill and Ben & Jerry's.

According to the property's general manager, Michael Pynn, there was a great demand for quality dining in Oxnard, and the property is aiming to fill that void. The community has responded well, driving more restaurants to seek leases in the center.

In addition to signing restaurant tenants, the shopping center has also expanded its retail tenant roaster, signing three new leases at the center. Kriza Aveda Salon and J. Stephens will open later this year, while White House/Black Market is scheduled to open in June.

Eatery options are being included in the design of many mixed-use facilities, and that also includes grocery stores. GlobeSt.com recently reported that several mixed-use facilities, including the One Santa Fe project in downtown Los Angeles, are opening small grocery stores in ground floor retail space.