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New faces move into Main Gate Square

University Boulevard is getting a facelift this semester with a few new places to eat and shop.

The strip's new neighbors include Samurai Sam's, a Japanese fast food restaurant; Bliss, a new restaurant and bar; and Urban Outfitters, a clothing store.

Samurai Sam's opened their first Tucson location at 994 E. University Blvd. last Sunday, promising its customers a "healthy choice" of teriyaki grill.

"We have had a really positive reaction so far from UA students, and many of them have showed familiarity with our food because we have Samurai Sam's all over Arizona, including Phoenix and Scottsdale," said manager Bob Ostberg.

This fast food chain's menu offers a variety of Japanese food, including teriyaki wraps, chicken salads and shrimp.

Physiological sciences sophomore Sara DeRosa said she's excited about the opening of Samurai's Sam so she can enjoy the same food she loves to eat in her hometown of Flagstaff.

"Everyone likes the food because it tastes great, and it's affordable for college students," DeRosa said.

Samurai Sam's is hoping to open six more new locations in Pima County, after the one on University.

In another Main Gate change, students who have enjoyed eating at Geronimoz' Restaurant & Bar will now be able to dine at its successor, Bliss.

Remodeling of the restaurant, located at 800 E. University Blvd., began Jan. 10 and is expected to be finished in 30 days, said general manager Bill Eyrich.

"We hope to open the doors of Bliss by Valentine's Day," Eyrich said.

Besides having a new name, the menu will also undergo some changes.

"We're keeping the foods that were good, such as the breadsticks and the salads, but we'll also be bringing in new gourmet sandwiches," said Eyrich.

The owners of Geronimoz', Ron Yaeli and Ray Flores, felt the need for a change after 12 years.

"It will be sad to see Geronimoz' go, but I am very excited for a new change," Eryich said.

"We're adding a dance floor downstairs to increase a better nightlife, and we hope everyone will come check it out," he added.

In addition to the two restaurants, a new clothing store is currently under construction. The red-brick housed Urban Outfitters will be opening on the northeast corner of University and North Tyndall Avenue next month.