THEN & NOW: See 21 Beloved Stores and Restaurants That Once Called Tuscaloosa’s University Mall Home

Countless West Alabama residents have visited University Mall in Tuscaloosa, witnessing retailers and restaurants come and go since the indoor mall first welcomed shoppers.

When Did University Mall First Open in Tuscaloosa?

University Mall's grand opening was held on Wednesday, August 20, 1980, touting itself as the region's largest indoor mall. 95 stores and restaurants comprised the original offering of retailers and restaurants available to shoppers.

What Were University Mall's First Anchor Stores?

There were four anchor stores when University Mall first opened: JCPenney, Sears, Parisian, and Pizitz.

Only JCPenney remains in its original location. Sears declared bankruptcy in 2018; Parisian and Pititz would later become Belk Women's and Men's.

READ MORE: This Forgotten Tuscaloosa Movie Theater is Hiding in Plain Sight

How Has University Mall Changed Since 1980?

University Mall's original architecture showcased elements of brutalist design popular in the late '70s and early '80s. The mall received an extensive renovation in 1999, adding more contemporary features and new flooring throughout.

In over four decades of operation, the mall has seen its fair share of restaurants and retailers come and go. Keep scrolling to take a look at a few of these places you may have forgotten.

👀 Want more retro fun? This list of forgotten '80s staples is sure to bring back memories. 

👀 Hungry for more nostalgia? Have a taste of these forgotten '80s faves.