Today we’re sharing an exclusive sneak peek of Agritopia’s newest destination: Epicenter, which celebrates its formal grand opening later this week.
Where is Epicenter?
You know that area on Higley and Ray where Buck & Rider, Undertow and Peixoto Coffee are located? That downtown vibe area is Epicenter and is finally being called “complete” by the visionaries behind it, Johnston & Co.
Epicenter’s concept is intended to be Agritopia’s urban, downtown space where world-class retailers, dining, and self care experiences are all in a walkable area that is easily a half-day experience to see it all.
What restaurants are at Epicenter?
There’s date night destinations, family dining, casual lunch spots, incredible breakfast and local coffee all within Epicenter.
Delightful dining options include Buck and Rider, Beer Barn, Belly Kitchen & Bar, Gadzooks, Matt’s Big Breakfast, Peixoto coffee, Spinato’s Pizzeria and Family Kitchen, Source, Undertow, and one final tenant who will be announced soon.
Truly, make it a 2024 goal to taste all the eats throughout Epicenter. They were all selected to highlight some of the best restaurants across the area, and it’s an incredible showing of Arizona’s culinary scene.
Mom hack: a lot of the more date night destinations (Buck and Rider, Undertow, etc.) recommend reservations, especially to make it back to your babysitter on time. 😉
What is there to do at Epicenter?
Those seeking self- care and wellness be sure to visit The Beauty Boss Co, Barre3, The Collective, The Ivy, Rise Wellness, Wylde Hair Salon + Hooligans Barbershop, and Freed Beauty.
I’ve had my hair styled a few times by Wylde (in salon and at her pop up style bars at local events) and it has to be one of the dreamiest salons I’ve ever stepped foot in. (Plus, they take last minute call-ins, and do everything from blowouts and braids to full color).
The fitness options here are ideal for weekend mom meetups if it’s a little out of your daily drive routine.
Try Barr3 weekend classes or a pop-up yoga classes on the second Sundays at Beer Barn and do coffee or brunch after for a perfect moms meetup.
What’s kid-friendly at Epicenter?
Here’s a few favorites when you have kids in tow:
–Arcadia Toys (inside urbAna) is a carefully curated toyshop with incredible toys for babies, tots and kids. Your kids will LOVE browsing the shop, and bonus: sign up for their birthday club to get $20 shopping spree for kiddos.
–Why I Love Where I Live: Don’t miss out on the local Gilbert candy + toy machines inside this corner shop! With localized Gilbert-themed conversation hearts, m&ms and other quarter candies, kids will love spending their coins here.
–Air Guitar: At the corner intersection of Epicenter is a convenience corner store, elevated, and its home to the cotton candy burrito. If you’re looking for a quick bite with kids, you can’t go wrong with their pizza by the slices, too.
The Grand Opening Festivities
Mark your calendars for November 16, 2023 at 2 p.m. when Epicenter will host a Grand Opening celebration. The event will be presided over by Founder, Joe Johnston and CEO, William Johnston of Johnston & Co.
Following the ceremony, all attendees are invited to join in the festivities.
Guests can enjoy delightful light bites and drinks generously provided by various Epicenter tenants. The event promises to be a day filled with a sense of community and the dawning of a new era in Agritopia’s storied history.
William Johnston, CEO, Johnston & Co., stated, “We extend a warm invitation to our community to join us on November 16th as we celebrate the culmination of this project, and we eagerly anticipate the promising future it ushers into Gilbert.” For more information about Epicenter and a complete list of tenants, visit www.epicenteratagritopia.com.
