More eateries, entertainment venues on tap at The Ridge

The area in foreground will begin development in 60 days to include entertainment venues, more restaurants and retail shops. (Courtesy drone image/Waterstone)

ROCHESTER - At The Ridge Marketplace, the mantra this summer is, "Go South, young man, Go South."

Waterstone Retail, developer of the bustling shopping mecca along Route 11, will be breaking ground on Phase II of The Ridge within 60 days, bringing with it at least two entertainment venues plus more restaurants and retail outlets, a spokesperson said today.

Meanwhile, Phase I continues to pick up new lessees, including Starbucks, which opened just last week.

This fall two new restaurants are slated for opening, including Mooyah, which features custom burgers, hand cut fries and 10 flavors of shakes; and Eastern Paradise, an Asian fusion, hibachi and sushi bar.

July also saw the start of free summer events in The Ridge's park just north of the 110 Grill. The next event is Wednesday when a free movie night begins at 6 p.m. There will also be a free bounce house, and folks are welcomed to bring blankets and picnic while enjoying the movies.

Jenn Fairfield of Waterstone said today that the level of interest from retailers, the community and foot traffic at The Ridge "completely exceeded our expectations."

"I was there at the park next to 110 Grill on Friday, and they had a free waterslide for the kids and a bouncy house and people were having a great time," said Fairfield, who added Waterstone's goal is not to compete with Rochester's downtown but to complement it.

And for all of those waiting for the long-anticipated entertainment venues expected to be part of Phase II, Fairfield said that wait may soon be over.

She said Phase II, which comprises 160,000 square feet, will have at least two such venues, however she said she couldn't disclose what they would be.

"As soon as we have signed leases you'll know," she added.

Phase II will also likely add four more restaurants to the mix and several retailers.

All the development will occur off Route 11 just south of the current configuration, Fairfield added.

She said development may also extend farther back than the Market Basket, which is currently bringing in some 26,000 folks a week to their store alone.

Other free events at the park this month include waterslides and a dunk tank on Saturday, and a bounce house and obstacle course on July 25 and July 28.

To get more info on August events check out The Ridge on Facebook.