The BLOCK: A New Era of Community Entertainment in Rio Rancho
RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) – Excitement is building in Rio Rancho as THE BLOCK, a new food hall, entertainment venue, and retail space, nears completion at the Enchanted Hills shopping center. Set to open in the summer of 2024, this innovative concept is set to revolutionize the local entertainment scene.
A Unique Concept
The 18,000-square-foot venue, primarily constructed from shipping containers, offers a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces for food vendors, a designated food truck alley, retail spaces, a bar with stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, and an outdoor stage set on a turf and concrete courtyard.
“One of the really important elements of the block will be our community offerings. And we plan on having activities every night of the week throughout the year. And those will include outdoor movie nights, live music, karaoke, dance parties, activities for all ages,” said Tiffany Gravelle, chief operations officer for THE BLOCK.
The venue can accommodate up to 22 vendors, offering a diverse range of food and drink options such as Stackers, KuKri, Los Tacos del Rey, Umami, The Boba Lounge, Mint Noodle Bowl, Thicc Pizza Co., Tavern on the Green, and The TOP of THE BLOCK bar.
THE BLOCK is designed to allow visitors to grab their food and enjoy it anywhere on the property. The project, initiated in 2019, faced construction delays due to the challenges posed by the aftermath of COVID-19.
A Community Hub
Despite the delays, THE BLOCK is currently 75% leased, with plans to bring in a coffee vendor, a vegan food option, and collaborate with a local retailer. Gravelle expressed excitement about involving the local community in the project, with open calls for food trucks, mural artists, and musicians to enhance the entertainment experience.
For those interested in leasing a space or participating in the open calls, visit THE BLOCK’s website for more information and opportunities to be a part of this exciting new venture.
