Since it first opened in the 1970s, The Plaza Rancho Bernardo has been a hub of both Rancho Bernardo and Poway.
“We have a diverse type of tenancy, which attracts different types of cultures and multi-generational shoppers,” said Shelley Goodson, senior property manager for the shopping center, which has 70 stores and businesses.
“There’s something for everyone and something you didn’t expect,” Goodson said.
She encourages shoppers to visit the center on Nov. 30, Shop Small Business Saturday. It’s a chance for shoppers to locally-owned, small businesses in their community.
The Plaza has several unique options for shoppers.
Restaurants and eateries include IHOP, Akai Hana, the Golf Bar (has a dining option in addition to the sport simulators), Iron Wok, Naturally Desi Cafe, Roberto’s Taco Shop, Round Table Pizza and Starbuck’s Coffee.
Genki Sushi opened a couple of months ago and has been very quickly embraced by the community, said Goodson, noting that the eatery has retained the chefs from the former restaurant in the same location that closed.
Swadeshi — an Indian grocery store with specialty items including Indian vegetables, spices and authentic ayurveda alternative medicine —is planned to open in early 2025.
Even for those without time to stop for a bite or a meal, Goodson notes that gift cards make great gifts.
The center is still looking for tenants for the former Barrel Room and Urge spots, Goodson said.
Those with early Christmas gift shopping on their minds, or any other shopping, might want to check out Unicorn Gift & Jewelry, KZ Jewelry Designs, Merle Norman Cosmetics, the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop, Big 5 Sporting Goods and CVS.
After a long day of shopping, there are plenty of places to relax at the Plaza as well, including Elation Massage & Spa, Studio M, Lashes Desire, Stretch U, Plaza Hair Salon and Bernardo Nails.
Customers can even get their shoes cleaned at RB Shoe Repair and Alteration, while CnP Cleaners can get clothes looking their best, she said.
Other businesses in the Plaza include The UPS store, the post office and MyPoint Credit Union.
Those with extra energy, or perhaps looking to fulfill a New Year’s resolution, can hit The Gold Bar, GolfTec, Swiftkick Martial Arts or the Elite Fencer’s Club.
“Kaziranga Procricket Outfitters just opened a couple of months ago,” said Goodson, noting cricket is the No. 2 sport in the world, following soccer.
Children don’t have to miss out on the fun, thanks to BB Acting Studios and Code Ninja Rancho Bernardo.
Even the family pets can be ready for the holidays. Pampered pets can be taken to Barkley’s Pet Spa, while any needed medical care or checkups can be handled by Companion Care Veterinary Hospital.
No matter where shoppers visit, Goodson said a giant lighted Christmas present in the courtyard is a must-see.
“We encourage visitors to take a festive photo at the Magical Gift Box, located behind MyPoint Credit Union, and post it @dineshopplazarb,” Goodson said.
The gift box will be lit up between 4:30 and 10 p.m. nightly.
Goodson said the plaza has undergone “a lot of refreshing” to make it more inviting for their guests.
“We added a courtyard and it’s a much more open area,” she said.
Benches have been ordered, tables and chairs will also soon be in place to “make it a communal area for the neighborhood,” she said.
The south end of the Plaza has also undergone renovations.
“Enhancing the grounds, making it easier to access the businesses with wide, safe sidewalks and broadening the pedestrian mall for accessibility demonstrates the willingness of the owners to enhance the shopper’s experience,” Goodson said.
She noted that all the walkways, lighting, stair rails and seating areas have been renovated, and landscaping and and trees have been enhanced.
And just in time for the holidays, half the parking lot has been recently repaved, while the other half is expected to be completed by early December.
Those looking to their local community will find Plaza RB is great place to start.
Rancho Bernardo Plaza is at 16761 through 16787 Bernardo Center Drive. Several of the businesses are offering promotions; for details, visit: theplazarb.com and click on Plaza Perks.
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