Renovations begin at Queen City Quarter, formerly the EpiCentre

Why it matters: The EpiCentre fell into despair during the pandemic as the owner defaulted on its loan. Meanwhile, crime rose in the area. The complex’s new management company, real estate firm CBRE, has promised to overhaul the building, bring in new family-friendly tenants and revive it as a popular, centrally located attraction.

What’s happening: Work began Friday to spruce up the 15,462-square-foot plaza by replacing the walkway pavers and installing benches with planters. The building will get a fresh coat of paint, and its staircases will be repaired.

What’s more: A new restaurant, Sea Grill Restaurant and Bar, will take over the 9,275-square-foot ground-floor space formerly occupied by Blackfinn Ameripub.

• “The new concept will comprise striking presentations, daily fresh seafood delivery, and a unique menu,” according to a statement from CBRE.
• The restaurant’s menu will feature dishes like salmon stuffed with crab and lobster, soup bouillabaisse with two pounds of seafood, oysters, caviar, deer medallions, and tomahawk surf and turf with a 10-ounce lobster tail.
• The restaurant owner has a second concept in Charlotte, but CBRE has not disclosed what it is or who the owner is.

Catch up quick: CBRE has been making changes to the former EpiCentre since a bank lender took ownership of the building.

• The firm upgraded the security camera system and is improving lighting in the parking garage and on the patio.
• New tenants like Nostalgia Hollow Co., Super Icy Brothers, a Cajun restaurant and The Portal have signed leases. Other older tenants — like World of Beer, Mortimer’s Café & Pub and Bowlero — have opted to stay.