West Toledo getting new restaurants

Published: Friday, 10/31/2014 - Updated: 2 minutes ago

BY JON CHAVEZ BLADE BUSINESS WRITER

Two Toledo-area shopping centers that are expanding have announced new tenants.

The new Shoppes at Westgate Village said a fast-casual restaurant, Macs n Melts, is leasing 1,400 square feet in a retail strip under construction on the north side of Central Avenue west of Secor Road.

Westgate Village said in July that Piada Italian Street Food and Wingstop will occupy 2,400 and 1,500 square feet, respectively, in the 8,000-square foot retail strip.

Meanwhile, at the Shops at Franklin Place on Monroe Street in Sylvania Township, fast-casual restaurant Tropical Smoothie Cafe expects to open next week. The Shops at Franklin Place last week saw the opening of two retailers, HomeGoods and Marshalls.

The new restaurant will be on the opposite side of the center from HomeGoods and Marshalls.

Tom Walsh, director of leasing for Abbell Associates in Chicago, which owns Westgate, said Macs n Melts will specialize in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni.

Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches are a hot concept in the restaurant business with restaurants adding them to their menus and at least six grilled cheese restaurant chains expanding across the country. Earlier this year a grilled cheese and tomato soup chain, Tom and Chee, opened in Maumee. Paddy Jacks, which has locations in Sylvania Township and Toledo, is also known for its grilled cheese sandwiches.

Mr. Walsh said Macs n Melts will use artisan breads and specialty cheeses for its menu items. Its adult fare as well as kids fare. Its a nice contemporary design and it should do well, he said.

Originally posted here:
West Toledo getting new restaurants