Students returning to Eddy Street Commons this semester have encountered noticeable changes to the popular commercial corridor just south of campus, where two prominent storefronts have closed and new restaurants are slated to take their place.
Blaze Pizza previously occupied the unit between Jimmy John's and Bru Burger Bar, near the heart of the development. The corner unit filled by Urban Outfitters, one of the district’s few clothing retailers, will see Osteria Amici move in. Construction signage and leasing information posted at the site indicate empty spaces are being redeveloped for new restaurant tenants, including BIBIBOP Asian Grill in Blaze Pizza's old location and CAVA near O’Rourke’s Public House.
Eddy Street Commons, located across from the University’s southern boundary, has served as a mixed-use development with restaurants, retail shops and housing. The district sees heavy foot traffic from students, faculty and visitors, particularly on weekends and during athletic events. According to publicly available leasing updates on Kite Realty's website, the property management group is working to fill the former retail spaces with dining concepts that align with current demand.
Construction and interior renovation work have been visible at both former storefronts since late fall. Junior Chiara Bilant, who said she visits Eddy Street regularly, said she first noticed the changes earlier this academic year when signage appeared at the former pizza location.
“I saw the windows covered and realized Blaze was gone,” Bilant said. “That space used to be busy because it was quick and close to campus. Now there’s construction, so it’s clear something new is coming in.”
Bilant said she has observed an increase in restaurant-focused activity in the area over the past two years, noting that students often use Eddy Street primarily for dining rather than shopping.
“When people go there, it’s usually to eat Chipotle or meet friends,” Bilant said. “There aren’t many clothing stores nearby anymore, so it already feels more like a food destination.”
Junior Anaïs Keller said she became aware of the retail changes when she noticed the closure of Urban Outfitters and noted the addition of Tous Les Jours, a new bakery that is opening near Dave’s Hot Chicken.
“That store was one of the only places within walking distance where students could buy clothes,” Keller said. “Now that it’s closed, it changes the balance of what’s available there. Most people go there to eat, especially in groups. So it makes sense from a business standpoint that restaurants would be prioritized.”
Senior Electra Vaitsas said she learned about the planned CAVA location through posted construction notices and conversations with friends. She said new dining options could affect how students choose where to spend time off campus.
“Having more food choices within walking distance means students may go there more often,” Vaitsas said. “It’s convenient because it doesn’t require transportation.”
CAVA, the Washington, D.C.-based Mediterranean fast-casual chain, has expanded rapidly in recent years, particularly in college communities. The brand focuses on customizable grain bowls, salads and pita wraps, with an emphasis on quick service.
Eddy Street Commons opened in phases beginning in 2009 and has continued to evolve in response to tenant turnover and shifting consumer demand. Over time, several retail stores have closed or relocated, while restaurant tenants have remained among the most consistent occupants. University officials do not manage Eddy Street Commons directly, but the development plays a significant role in student life due to its proximity to campus and concentration of dining options.
Construction activity at the former Blaze Pizza and Urban Outfitters locations is ongoing, and no official opening dates have been publicly announced for the incoming tenants. However, signage indicates that renovations are underway and new restaurants are expected to open in the coming months.
