Chandler, AZ, January 9, 2026
A significant redevelopment project is transforming the Chandler Fashion Center into a premier dining and entertainment destination in the East Valley. Spearheaded by Macerich, this initiative includes new restaurants, retail stores, and community engagement spaces designed to elevate the shopping experience. With exciting additions like Din Tai Fung and Seafood City, the redevelopment aims to enhance local economic vibrancy and support Arizona entrepreneurs, contributing to the area’s growth and diversification.
Chandler, AZ – A significant redevelopment project is underway at Chandler Fashion Center, poised to transform the shopping destination into a premier dining and entertainment hub in the East Valley. This initiative by Macerich, a leading owner and developer of retail properties, reflects a strategic commitment to enhancing community spaces and fostering continued economic vibrancy in the region. The project emphasizes entrepreneurial innovation by introducing a diverse mix of businesses and entertainment options, signaling robust private investment in Chandler’s future.
The extensive remodel and layout changes, which commenced in January, are designed to elevate both the culinary and retail experiences available to residents and visitors alike. This forward-looking investment highlights the adaptability and resilience of the local business landscape, demonstrating how strategic private sector development can stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for Arizona AZ entrepreneurs.
A Revitalized Dining and Entertainment District
The core of the redevelopment focuses on invigorating the dining and entertainment district situated near the Harkins Theatres on the south side of the property. This revitalization includes the introduction of an array of vibrant full-service restaurants and crave-worthy fast-casual concepts, many featuring expanded patios designed for all-season dining. Such additions are crucial for enhancing visitor experience and extending dwell times, contributing positively to the local economy.
Among the highly anticipated culinary additions is Din Tai Fung, an internationally renowned Taiwanese restaurant brand celebrated for its handcrafted Xiao Long Bao, or soup dumplings. This establishment, known for its exposed dumpling showcase kitchen, is scheduled to open in 2027, promising an unforgettable hospitality experience for patrons. Further culinary brands are expected to be announced in early 2026, building excitement for the center’s gastronomic evolution.
New Retailers and Unique Concepts Bolster Offerings
Beyond dining, the Chandler Fashion Center is also welcoming new retail establishments that diversify and enrich the shopping experience. Seafood City, a first-to-market Filipino grocery store, is set to open in 2026. This unique concept will offer a vibrant selection of in-house restaurants serving Pan-Asian dishes, bakery treats, and popular street foods. It will also feature live tanks of fresh fish and crustaceans, along with a complimentary cook-to-order “catch-and-cook” experience, showcasing innovative retail models.
Additionally, the center continues to attract a strong mix of retailers and entertainment. Johnny Rockets is slated to bring its classic burger and shake flavors to the food court in early 2026, and J.Crew Factory will introduce new options for men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing. These join recent arrivals such as Scheels, which opened in September 2023 in the former Nordstrom space, offering a vast sporting goods store with unique attractions like an indoor Ferris wheel and a saltwater aquarium. High-end brands like gorjana, TravisMathew, and Vuori have also recently joined the center, underscoring its appeal to a dynamic shopper base.
Enhancing Community Engagement and Experience
The redevelopment plans extend to creating more engaging community spaces. Highlights include a remodeled lower-level lawn and event area, designed to host a variety of events from live concerts to family-friendly gatherings and community celebrations. An innovative interactive splash pad will provide playful energy during the day, transforming into an illuminated water feature at night. Visitors will also find new shaded retreats, lush landscaping, cozy fire pits, and comfortable lounge seating, fostering a welcoming, garden-inspired atmosphere for relaxation and connection. These amenities underscore a broader trend towards creating mixed-use properties that serve as vibrant community hubs, benefiting Phoenix AZ business and leisure.
The construction, which began in January, is being managed to ensure minimal interruptions to the shopper experience, reflecting a thoughtful approach to development that prioritizes existing business operations and customer convenience. This attention to detail is a hallmark of successful private sector projects that integrate seamlessly with community life.
Economic Impact and Growth in Chandler
The Chandler Fashion Center redevelopment project is a testament to the ongoing economic vitality and growth within Chandler. The mall, as the second-largest in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, plays a crucial role in job creation and local revenue generation. Macerich’s continued investment in high-performing properties across Phoenix, including enhancement projects at other key locations like Scottsdale Fashion Square, demonstrates confidence in the regional economy and its potential for sustained expansion.
Chandler’s proactive policies and targeted marketing efforts have established it as a world-class community for residents and businesses. The city’s economic development strategy supports first-time entrepreneurs and businesses at every stage, from startups to global industry leaders. Chandler boasts a pro-business leadership, a talented workforce, and a nationally recognized quality of life, which collectively attract financial partnerships and capital investments. The city’s retail vacancy rate of 4.7% is well below its five-year average and is expected to fall further due to additional redevelopment projects like this one. Such favorable conditions illustrate how responsible governance and private enterprise can work hand-in-hand to drive Chandler economic growth and diversify the local economy.
Conclusion
The major redevelopment project at Chandler Fashion Center signifies more than just new stores and restaurants; it represents a bold vision for modern retail and community engagement. By focusing on innovative dining, diverse retail, and inviting public spaces, Macerich is helping to solidify Chandler’s reputation as a dynamic hub for commerce and leisure. This private sector investment, coupled with Chandler’s supportive business environment, creates a fertile ground for continued job creation, expanded consumer choices, and robust Phoenix small business opportunities. We encourage all residents and visitors to explore the evolving offerings at Chandler Fashion Center and actively support the local businesses that contribute to our community’s prosperity. Stay engaged as Chandler continues its journey of economic advancement and entrepreneurial success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the major redevelopment project at Chandler Fashion Center?
- The major redevelopment project at Chandler Fashion Center involves significant remodels and layout changes to elevate the center’s culinary and retail mix, both indoors and on the perimeter. It aims to reinvigorate the dining and entertainment district on the south side of the property.
- What new restaurants are planned for Chandler Fashion Center?
- The project will introduce a new mix of vibrant full-service restaurants and crave-worthy fast-casual concepts. Among these, Din Tai Fung, a Taiwanese restaurant brand, is set to open in 2027. Additional culinary brands will be announced in early 2026.
- Will there be new retail stores at Chandler Fashion Center?
- Yes, the redevelopment will bring new retail establishments. Seafood City, a first-to-market Filipino grocery store with in-house restaurants, is scheduled to open in 2026. Johnny Rockets and J.Crew Factory are also planned for early 2026. Recent additions include Scheels, gorjana, TravisMathew, and Vuori.
- What new amenities and experiences will be available?
- The project includes a remodeled lower-level lawn and event area for concerts and family gatherings, an interactive splash pad that transforms into an illuminated water feature at night, new shaded retreats, landscaping, fire pits, lounge seating, and an inviting walking path.
- When did construction begin and when are openings expected?
- Construction began in January and is expected to result in minimal interruptions to shopper experience. Din Tai Fung is set to open in 2027, while Seafood City is expected in 2026. Johnny Rockets and J.Crew Factory are anticipated to open in early 2026.
Key Features of the Chandler Fashion Center Redevelopment
| Feature Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Scope | Major remodels and layout changes to elevate culinary and retail mix, indoors and on the perimeter. Focus on reinvigorating the dining and entertainment district. |
| New Dining Concepts | Introduction of vibrant full-service restaurants and fast-casual concepts with expanded patios. Includes Din Tai Fung (opening 2027) and Johnny Rockets (opening early 2026). |
| New Retailers | Seafood City (Filipino grocery store with in-house restaurants, opening 2026), J.Crew Factory (opening early 2026). Recent additions include gorjana, TravisMathew, Vuori, and Round1 (in former Sears space). |
| Enhanced Amenities | Remodeled lower-level lawn and event area, interactive splash pad (day) / illuminated water feature (night), new shaded retreats, landscaping, fire pits, and lounge seating. |
| Timeline | Construction began in January (2026) with minimal interruptions. Key openings span from early 2026 to 2027. |
| Developer | Macerich, a leading owner, operator, and developer of retail and mixed-use properties, with a portfolio of seven shopping centers in the Phoenix metro area. |
| Economic Impact | Aims to position Chandler Fashion Center as the East Valley’s premier dining destination, contributes to job creation and local revenue, and supports Chandler economic growth. |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
