Encino Place050

Mixing kids' fun with adult elegance, Encino Place offers more than 30 stores to keep families busy shopping, eating, and playing. Adorned with lush foliage, fine-art statues, and a central fountain, the two-story outdoor mall feels like an oasis of commercialism. In the center's plaza, young kids can enjoy a small carousel. One-dollar tickets can be purchased at Gregory's Toys, at the north end of the first story. Children can also expend unreasonable amounts of energy running around the uncluttered space of the plaza. Then there are stores that present creative and educational merriment. At the Encino location of Creative Kids, young children can engage in diverse classes that blend art, exercise, and imagination. The mall features one of the city's many Color Me Mine spots, which lets kids of all ages paint pottery. A tutoring center, called Renaissance Kids, provides educational training, for ages three on up. Another highlight is the aforementioned Gregory's Toys, a well-stocked, though pricey store. Several chain restaurants anchor the shopping center, including California Pizza Kitchen, Chin-Chin, and Daily Grill. All accommodate families quite well, with California Pizza Kitchen (located on the second floor) being the favorite for kids. Beauty care, health care, and accessory stores cater to adults. Although, amidst the grown-up clothing stores (such as BCBG and Hals Ultima MODA Men's Fashions), there is the M. Frederic Kids outlet. Prices range from moderate to expensive, but the selection of out-of-the ordinary boys and girls clothes is exceptional. Encino Place stands out as a one-stop shopping center that expertly balances the interests of the entire family.