The food court at the Gulfport outlet mall is closed for good. Why?
Those shopping for new Easter clothes and spring fashions at Gulfport Premium Outlets may be in for a surprise.
The food court at the shopping complex off U.S. 49 and I-10 has closed. It was located in the large building on the north side of the outlets.
Anchored by PJ’s Coffee, the restaurant areas inside the building are cleared out out food and merchandise and the lights are off, but the restrooms and ATM are still open. The food court was the only option at the mall where diners could sit and eat a meal.
Other dining options in the building included pizza, salads, hamburgers and Asian cuisine.
Parent company Simon is leasing the space for non-food purposes, said Pam Meinzinger, general manager of Gulfport Outlets.
The outlets’ website shows a pop-up food truck is one option for food while shopping. Other food retailers are located in kiosks at the outlets. Archie’s Hot Island features hot dogs and cheesesteaks at a kiosk in front of Talbots. Dippin Dots snacks, milkshakes and smoothies are available at a kiosk outside Carters. Popcorn Island sells gourmet popcorn at a kiosk outside Nike Factory Store.
Gulfport Premium Outlets features fashion and accessories from H&M, Coach, Columbia, Under Armor and many other top brands.
Company president David Simon said in the 2021 Simon annual report that among the possibilities ahead are new development and redevelopment in the 37 U.S. states where it operates and its international locations. He said the company will make investments in hospitality, wellness, food and entertainment, e-commerce, retail brands and technology to drive innovative consumer experiences.
This story was originally published April 5, 2022 at 7:00 AM.
