SCOTTSDALE - SouthBridge has left the starting gate.

With the recent opening of The Foodbar, the mixed-use complex is off and running, with more restaurants, shops and offices scheduled to open by fall.

Once in full operation, SouthBridge will be a destination for dining, shopping and events that promises to unite downtown Scottsdale and the Scottsdale Waterfront on opposite sides of the Arizona Canal.

It should become one seamless cultural and entertainment mega-center.

And, yes, there will be plenty of parking. Underground parking.

The Foodbar is setting the tone with its urban, European feel and such menu items as roast leg of lamb, stuffed artichokes, orzo salad and paninis.

Executive chef Allan Schanbacher describes The Foodbar as a "seasonal-driven restaurant with uncomplicated fresh food."

While there is seating in the all-day restaurant, the emphasis is on high-end takeout.

SouthBridge will have seven restaurants.

Peter Kasperski brings his Sea Saw across the street and adds: Shell Shock, a Japanese tavern with a seafood menu; Mexican Standoff, Southwest and Mexican fare; and Digestif,Northern Italian and seafood.

Lenard Rubin, whose Valley credentials include Mary Elaine's at the Phoenician and his own acclaimed Medizona, oversees The Foodbar, fine dining Estate House (built like a vintage home with rooms that include a library) and Canal, surrounded by a cat walk for live fashion shows and screens displaying European fashions.

Most restaurants should open by October and November.

In addition, 30 independent shops and boutiques will be scattered throughout the complex, all one-of-a-kind with such merchandise as jewelry, clothing, home furnishings, flowers, music, pet wear and accessories.

Together, the shops will be called The Mix.

A Town Square next to The Foodbar will host live events. At night, the second floor of Canal becomes a private club.

There's more to come at SouthBridge.

By 2010, a hotel and residential units should be completed with property that fronts the canal. One of the first home owners: SouthBridge developer Fred Unger.