I agree with Tuck. This isn't trying to be one of those strip malls on Memorial Road that is trying to grab the random passerby and desparately pull them in. This is a destination place...or at least I think that's what they are going for. Think Utica Square, or Highland Park Village or even Nichols Hills Plaza. Storefronts in those developments do not front the street. If retailers aren't savvy enough to understand that distinction, they probably don't belong there.

As for the design, sure, its a gamble. But the whole thing is a gamble.