By Lookout Staff

August 6, 2010 -- The long-awaited opening of Santa Monica Place is almost here. The redesigned shopping complex next to the Third Street Promenade will open on Friday at 10 a.m. Mall owner Macerich is promising “everything but a traditional ribbon-cutting.” For more information on the day’s festivities, go to http://santamonicaplace.com/events/event.aspx?eid=16538.

The celebration will continue throughout the month with various events.

Media and other invited guests got a sneak peak of the new mall on Tuesday with a cocktail party on the rooftop dining deck. Several of the restaurants opened their doors, giving a little taste of their menus.

Jeremy Umland, owner of the contemporary Japanese cuisine eatery Ozumo, talks to guests about the new restaurant.

The rooftop dining deck is a unique feature of Santa Monica Place. The third floor is entirely dedicated to food, including chef-driven restaurants, a food court and a market expected to open early next year.

The rooftop dining deck provides excellent views of the Santa Monica landscape and the ocean.