The Davis Collection shopping center brings new national retailers and dining options
By ALMA CULVERWELL — city@theaggie.org
The redevelopment of the former University Mall into The Davis Collection is beginning to take shape. Approved as a commercial-only project under the city’s University Commons plan, the project retains the existing Trader Joe’s and introduces over 100,000 square feet of new commercial retail space. Alongside new landscaping, circulation improvements and gathering areas, several major tenants have recently opened this summer, with more on the way later this year.
The following includes recently opened businesses at The Davis Collection:
Nordstrom Rack, the first anchor tenant to debut at the center, brings discounted fashion, shoes and accessories from Nordstrom’s popular brands.
PetSmart opened July 2025 as a new resource for local pet owners and was the second storefront to open at the center. PetSmart carries pet food and supplies as well as grooming services and adoption events.
J.Crew Factory opened July 2025. J.Crew Factory expands fashion choices in Davis, featuring classic styles and accessories at outlet prices.
Ulta Beauty, which opened August 2025, brings a mix of cosmetics, skincare and haircare products, along with salon services.
Mendocino Farms opened August 2025. This California-based eatery emphasizes gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads and seasonal menu items, with a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
Businesses opening in late summer and fall 2025 include:
The Melt, a counter-serve comfort food chain best known for its grilled cheese, burgers, mac and cheese and fries.
Urban Plates, a regional chain that specializes in plates, salads, sandwiches and bowls from scratch.
Paris Banh Mi, a bakery and cafe serving banh mi sandwiches, bubble tea and pastries.
Shah’s Halal Food, a staple on the Davis campus, is a halal chain offering platters, gyros and other Middle-Eastern inspired street food.
Fluffy Fluffy Dessert Cafe, a cafe known for their award-winning soufflé pancakes and desserts, serving anything from breakfast to dinner and more.
88 Bao Bao, a new eatery expected to feature bao buns and other Asian street food dishes.
Additional retailers are anticipated in the coming months, including Calicraft Brewing Company, Good Friends Hawaiian Poke, The Old Tea House, 2nd Street Vintage and Tequileros Taqueria. One 1,300-square-foot space remains available.
The Davis Collection held a celebratory event, “The Davis Collection Unwrapped,” on Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 3 to 5 p.m., according to the city of Davis. The community celebration marks the official unveiling of the shopping center, which replaced the former University Mall.
The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony as well as live music from a local blues band, tastings, store promotions, face painting and giveaways. Along with speeches by Gregory Finley, president of the west region for Brixmor, and Davis Vice Mayor Donna Neville.
The Davis Collection redevelopment marks one of the largest retail additions in the city in years. With a mix of national brands and new dining options, the project aims to serve both UC Davis students and the wider Davis community.
By Alma Culverwell— city@theaggie.org
