Dori's World in Fashion ~ El Mundo de Dori en la Moda: Road trip to Sarasota's The Mall at University Town Center

Photo courtesy of The Mall at University Town Center

So I decided to take a short road trip to visit a new mall in Sarasota, Fla. Although it was opened October 14, 2014, I still consider it new since I hadn't been there yet. It's about an hour or so drive from Tampa. I didn't mind the drive since Ellenton Premium Outlets was only 15 minutes away and the beaches were close by.

Photo credit Doris Irizarry

But anyways back to the new mall, The Mall at University Town Center. It is situated right off of I-75 on University Parkway. But the mall wasn't alone, as the intersection is fully developed with loads of stores, business and restaurants all around.

Photo credit Doris Irizarry

The Mall at University Town Center depicts Florida's beautiful architecture throughout the 880,000 sq. ft. mall on 73 acres. The two-level mall features about 125 businesses that include renowned stores to classy styled boutiques: Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, Dillard’s, Vera Bradley, Vince Camuto, Michael Kors, TINA Stephans, Jackie Z Style Co., Francesca’s among many others.

Photo credit Doris Irizarry

And while shopping when hunger strikes don't expect the typical food court. Instead enjoy a fine or casual restaurant setting that even includes YO! Sushi - a Japanese ‘kaiten’ sushi bar that delivers freshly prepared food via a conveyor belt. I opted out on the sushi since I'm not crazy for it but settled for oriental food instead at Mandarin Express. Although the food was warm just how I prefer it, my choice of noodles over rice wasn't such a good choice (noodles were sort of 'greasy' and not tasteful which I sort of resolved with a few packs of soy sauce). If it’s a simple snack or a quick eat your taste palette desires than your choices range from ice cream, baked goods to pizza.

Photo credit Doris Irizarry

And one last advice upon your arrival, stop by the Customer Service desk located on the lower level near Grand Court for a "Passport to Shopping." It is full of discounts and special offers from select retailers.