Big Pointe Orlando expansion

[71jason]

Four new tenants signed for Pointe Orlando. Biggest is probably Blue Martini, which is currently at Mall at Millenia. A very upscale cougar (and manther) bar, it has a huge following--I've rarely seen it when it wasn't packed. Curious to see if its regulars follow it; Millenia is sort of the No Mans Land between "Tourist Orlando" and "Regular Orlando." Will the Winter Park crowd venture to I-Drive?

Pointe is also getting a Benihana, RA Sushi (new to me but a growing chain apparently), and a Minus5 ice bar--meaning two ice bars within a mile of each other. Only in Orlando. These are some nice additions that will go a long way in making that mall feel less empty. If only they could find a way to make parking less annoying.

Full details: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/os-pointe-orlando-blue-martini-20140122,0,5369481.story

 

[maxairmike]

That place must do 90% of its business after sun-down, because through 3pm it was empty, on a Saturday. Lots of empty spaces, though this should help. I'm sure losing Hooters to their own building on I-Drive took some day business away. It is nice around the front where Capital Grille is, but could use some sprucing up around the rest of it.

 

[71jason]

It has definitely struggled to find its identity over the years--back around 2000 it tried much harder to be a traditional mall--but lately has reinvented itself as more of an upscale nightlife destination, targeting convention-goers mostly. These four outlets will definitely help in that regard.

That Hooters was never terribly busy--probably not a coincidence that it had horrible service. Much like Adobe, it was kind of a holdover from the old regime. The new stores seem to fit better.

 

[luv]

Had to google "ice bar." Now must check one out. I don't drink, but have GOT to see this.

 

[71jason]

Had to google "ice bar." Now must check one out. I don't drink, but have GOT to see this.

I'm a fan of the existing one, just a couple blocks south on I-Drive. And not just because they named their new polar bear ice sculpture after me. It really is a fun time--and if you ever wanted to try vodka, it doesn't go down any smoother than from a frozen glass surrounded by ice.