Chandler Fashion Center's Shocking Transformation: Are You Ready for the Dining and Entertainment Explosion?

Macerich, a prominent player in the retail real estate sector, has announced an ambitious redevelopment plan for the Chandler Fashion Center, situated in the East Valley of Arizona. This initiative aims to revitalize the dining and entertainment district near Harkins Theatres on the property’s south side, as the shopping center approaches its 25th anniversary.

Monica Greenman, general manager of the Chandler Fashion Center, emphasized the center’s long-standing role as a vibrant hub for the community. “As we approach our 25th year of operations, we’re affirming our continued focus on creating a welcoming gathering space where guests come to indulge in the community’s best food, entertainment, and shopping,” she stated.

The redevelopment project is not just about aesthetics; it aims to significantly enhance the mixture of dining options available. Scheduled to open in 2027, Din Tai Fung, a renowned Taiwanese restaurant celebrated for its handcrafted soup dumplings, will be a key addition. Further dining brands are expected to be announced in early 2026, which suggests a growing array of culinary experiences for visitors.

In addition to new restaurants, plans for the center also include a remodeled lower-level lawn and event space designed to host concerts, family gatherings, and community celebrations. A new interactive splash pad will offer a daytime play area for children, while an illuminated water feature promises to enhance the night-time ambiance. To create a more inviting atmosphere, shaded seating areas, fire pits, and lush landscaping will also be incorporated into the design.

Construction is set to commence in January 2026, with assurances of minimal disruption to shoppers during the process. The first phase of development will introduce a walking path that connects the east parking lot to Macy’s and the newly proposed restaurant area.

The Chandler Fashion Center has recently expanded its retail offerings, welcoming new stores like Scheels, gorjana, TravisMathew, and Vuori. Additionally, stores such as J.Crew Factory and Johnny Rockets are anticipated to open in early 2026, while Seafood City, a Filipino grocery store featuring in-house dining, is also slated to join the shopping center.

Kim Choukalas, senior vice president of leasing for Macerich, highlighted the importance of Chandler Fashion Center as a retail hub that serves a diverse geographic region in the East Valley. “This project marries the lines between shopping and dining, creating a holistic entertainment experience,” she noted.

This redevelopment at the Chandler Fashion Center is part of Macerich’s broader strategy to invest in its properties across Arizona, which includes improvements planned for Scottsdale Fashion Square’s Palm Court. Collectively, Macerich owns seven regional shopping centers within the metro Phoenix area, encompassing over 7 million square feet of retail space.

As the Chandler Fashion Center embarks on this redevelopment journey, it reflects a broader trend in the retail industry, where shopping centers are increasingly evolving into multifaceted community spaces that blend dining, entertainment, and retail. The enhancements planned for this landmark center are poised to not only attract more visitors but also enrich the experience for the local community.