Staff Reports | Business & Commerce
Macerich announced plans to redevelop Chandler Fashion Center’s dining and entertainment district near Harkins Theatres on the south side of the property.
The project aims to enhance the center’s mix of restaurants and gathering spaces as it approaches its 25th year of operations.
The redevelopment will introduce new full-service restaurants and fast-casual concepts with expanded patios for all-season dining, according to a press release.
The lineup includes Din Tai Fung, a Taiwanese restaurant known for its handcrafted soup dumplings, scheduled to open in 2027.
Additional dining brands will be announced in early 2026.
“Chandler Fashion Center has a long history as a vibrant hub in the East Valley community,” said Ms. Monica Greenman, general manager of the shopping center. “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.”
Plans also include a remodeled lower-level lawn and event area for concerts, family gatherings and community celebrations. A new interactive splash pad will serve as a daytime play area and an illuminated water feature at night. Shaded seating areas, fire pits and landscaping will create a garden-inspired atmosphere.
Construction is scheduled to begin in January with minimal impact on shoppers. The first phase will include a walking path connecting the east parking lot to Macy’s and the new restaurant area.
Chandler Fashion Center recently added retailers such as Scheels, gorjana, TravisMathew and Vuori. J.Crew Factory and Johnny Rockets are expected to open in early 2026. Seafood City, a Filipino grocery store with in-house dining options, will also join the center.
“As a retail hub serving a broad geographic region of the East Valley, Chandler Fashion Center continues to attract a strong mix of retailers that appeal to its dynamic shopper base,” said Ms. Kim Choukalas, senior vice president of leasing for Macerich. “This project marries the lines between shopping and dining, creating a holistic entertainment experience.”
The Chandler project is part of Macerich’s broader investment in Arizona properties, including an upcoming enhancement at Scottsdale Fashion Square’s Palm Court. Macerich owns seven regional shopping centers in metro Phoenix, totaling more than 7 million square feet.
