Crown Center Adds Two Retail Tenants, Close to Full Occupancy

The Crown Center shopping center is close to full occupancy after adding two new businesses, Empanada Madness and The Electronics Store.

“We are very happy with how full our center is,” said Anne Deuschle, integrated marketing manager. “We came out of the pandemic with tenants who are thriving.”

With families visiting for Spring Break, the shopping center was bustling on a recent weekday. Deuschle said the multiple strands of customers including nearby employees, vacationers, business travelers and local residents give the center a competitive edge.

“We have so many different audiences, it allows us to be successful,” she said.

The shopping center has attracted enough new tenants that its down to its last two spaces available for lease.

The latest retailers are a couple of transplants.

Empanada Madness is relocating from its original location on Southwest Boulevard to Crown Center. (Photo by Manuel Vargas)

Empanada Madness is relocating to the first floor at Crown Center after operating its restaurant specializing in cuisine from Venezuela and Colombia on Southwest Boulevard for 10 years.

“We’re starting a new decade with a new location,” restaurant owner Andrea Penaloza said in a statement. “We’re very excited about a different atmosphere and opening our doors to a new set of clients.”

The menu includes empanadas and arepas, pastries stuffed with meat or cheese fillings; and traditional plates including Pabellon /Criollo and Bandeja Paisa as well as combos that include rice and beans.

Penaloza started the restaurant with her mother in 2013, according to a press release. After she died in 2020, her daughter decided it was time for a change. They will be bringing artwork from the Southwest Boulevard location to hang on the new walls.

“It’s a family business and we’re following my Mom’s legacy,” she said in a statement.

Hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays noon to 5 p.m.

The inventory at The Electronics Store includes computers, smartphones, Bluetooth speakers and also offers “How To” sessions for customers.

The Electronics Store opened in December on the second floor of Crown Center after operating in Johnson County.

The business sells new and refurbished electronics including desktop and laptop computers, televisions, mobile phones, smart watches, earbuds, Bluetooth speakers and accessories. It also does repairs and maintenance for any brand of computer and Apple iPhones.

“We serve a good mix of travelers and locals with a wide selection of electronics,” owner James Brown said in a statement.

“Starting in April, we’ll offer ‘how to’ sessions for people who want to learn different software programs or how to use a new device.”

Hours are Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from noon until 5 p.m.