LONGVIEW, Texas — In the era of online shopping and curbside pickups, many wonder if the days of malls are a thing of the past.
Anthony Barrios says he prefers online shopping, but there's nothing like going to the mall.
"I like the mall," he said. "It's fun."
The Longview Mall General Manager Kelly Overby says she doesn't believe malls are dead, but rather, dead, evolving.
"Research shows that malls are still alive, and I think Longview Mall is definitely alive," said Overby
Overby says she's passionate about bringing new attractions for shoppers, including restaurants.
"We have one that's called Eats or Treats, it's a local family that's opened a new restaurant here in town," she said. "We have one called Bubbly and they have different types of teas and Filipino food."
Overby says she enjoys partnering with local businesses.
"It's not just about Longview Mall, we want to be a part of the community," said Overby.
Eats or Treats, a family-owned fast-food restaurant with a homemade twist opened its doors at the mall November 4, and says the community support has been amazing so far.
"The people of Longview have shown us such great love and support. Every time we have a customer they say, 'I saw you on social media!' so, the support has been amazing," said DeShonda Roberts, Eats or Treats co-owner.
Roberts says the mall offered them the ability to bring something new for shoppers.
"We wanted to offer something a little different to add to the flavor of the Longview Mall," she said. "We have something for everyone."
Eats or Treats menu ranges from sandwiches, to Mashtinis, whipped mashed potatoes with toppings in a martini glass, loaded corn on the cobb, turkey legs, hot dogs, sweet treats and more.
Starting November 12, the restaurant is adding Mama's Soul food Sunday for the holiday season.
According to the mall's manager, there's also a new shop opening its doors November 19.
"I'd kind of like to hold out on who it is but be sure to come by and check it out," Overby said. "It's something different the mall has never had."
She says the holiday season brings in a lot of traffic to the mall and Longview Mall is already beginning preparations.
Santa will be coming to town via firetruck November 25th.
Longview Mall is hosting its second annual tree lighting in the parking lot with vendors and nonprofits December 3. Folks can nominate a child in the community to luminate the 30-foot tree.
"A child that has done something really great in the community or maybe who's just been having a rough time and really needs to be recognized," said Overby.
Nominations can be made to their Facebook page or by calling the Longview Mall.
She says she wants to the night to be really special for the child and the Longview community.