CALGARY- Foodies rejoice: some big names on the Calgary culinary scene are heading to the East Village.
On Wednesday, the developer behind the East Village revamp announced three tenants which will set up shop in the historic Simmons building—which is being referred to as the Gateway Block.
They are Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, Sidewalk Citizen Bakery and the chefs behind the popular CHARCUT Roast House. All three businesses were founded in Calgary and have become top spots on the local culinary scene.
“CMLC is delighted beyond words to announce the tenancy of East Village’s most extraordinary piece of real estate by a trio of local retail champions,” says Calgary Municipal Land Corporation CEO Michael Brown. “The Simmons space is very special; it is centre-ice to the East Village redevelopment.
“After interviewing more than 40 strong contenders, we chose the new tenant group because they – like East Village itself – are strong, distinctive, locally notable brands.”
The co-founder of Phil & Sebastian says he’s looking forward to being a part of the redevelopment.
“This whole area, I think, is going to be a real exciting, happening, buzzing area,” says Phil Robertson. “There’s going to be a really young professional demographic here, and I’m just excited to see this whole area that is historically rundown revitalized, and become a vibrant centre in the city.”
The Simmons Building’s revamp is expected to open in the spring of 2015, around the same time that residents are expected to move into two condo buildings which are currently under construction.
CMLC is spending $5 million to upgrade the Simmons Building, to add a rooftop terrace, a riverfront patio and cutouts.
RioCan has also announced plans for up to 600,000 square feet of retail and commercial development at the site of the old Cuff and Billy, one block west.
The East Village redevelopment will also host the National Music Centre, the new Central Library and a Hilton hotel.
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