Italian American developer Rick Caruso is preparing to reopen Palisades Village on August 15, nearly 19 months after the Palisades Fire forced the Pacific Palisades destination to close.
The outdoor center largely survived the January 7, 2025 wildfire, aided by fire-resistant construction and private firefighters. However, remediation was necessary to remove contaminants. Buildings were stripped to their frames, treated and rebuilt during a restoration valued at $100 million.
Caruso, the Los Angeles-born grandson of Italian immigrants, described the reopening as a comeback and a tribute to Los Angeles. His Italian American identity has shaped his emphasis on family, faith, hard work and community service. Restoring the Village represents more than reviving a commercial property – it returns a gathering place to a neighborhood still recovering from destruction.
The reopening celebration begins with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Stores and restaurants open at 11 a.m., followed by entertainment, family activities and an 8 p.m. finale. Parking will remain complimentary through September 30.
Palisades Village, originally opened in 2018 as a $200 million development, will return 99% leased. Most tenants are coming back, including Erewhon, Elysewalker, Brunello Cucinelli, Zimmermann, Veronica Beard and Blue Ribbon Sushi. Nearly one-third of the businesses will be new.
Among the additions is Spacca Tutto, an Italian steakhouse created by chef Nancy Silverton. Other newcomers include LESET’s first West Coast location, Violet Grey and Xirena.
Caruso’s investment offers Pacific Palisades a symbol of renewal – a restored town square designed to bring residents, businesses and visitors together.
