SAN JOSE — A new Shake Shack is headed to a big shopping center in San Jose, a deal that marks a fresh expansion for the popular chain of casual restaurants that was born in New York City, executives confirmed.
Shake Shack, known for its hamburgers and milkshakes, has decided to open a new restaurant in South San Jose’s Westfield Oakridge shopping center on Blossom Hill Road.
“I can confirm we are planning a Shack at Westfield Oakridge,” said Katie Scott, a spokesperson for New York City-based Shake Shack. “We are always looking to build out our footprint and we’re excited to be opening at Westfield Oakridge shopping center.”
The Shake Shack could open sometime this fall, according to signs posted at one of the main entrances to the mall.
“We’re excited that Shake Shack is joining Westfield Oakridge’s growing roster of tenants,” said Michael Chapman, general manager with Westfield Oakridge.
The leasing deal with Shake Shack marks the latest successful effort by Westfield Oakridge to sign up retailers, restaurants and other merchants at the San Jose shopping center.
Among the other notable openings at Oakridge mall this year:
— 99 Ranch Market, an Asian grocery chain that opened a location with a new concept that combines a supermarket and dining
— Slaters 50/50, a gourmet hamburger and craft beer restaurant
— UFC FIT, a fitness center
— Coldstone Creamery, a gourmet ice cream, smoothies, milkshakes and cake chain
— Mochinut, which offers mochi donuts and Korean rice flour hotdogs
“Shack Shack will be a key addition to the center’s collection of restaurants and experiences, giving our guests the opportunity to enjoy their classic burgers alongside our world-class shopping and amenities,” said Chapman, the Oakridge mall general manager.
The onset of the coronavirus pandemic coupled with the consumer shift to online shopping devastated numerous retailers and even forced some out of business.
In the wake of the outbreak of the virus, malls, retailers and restaurants have been forced to rethink their approach to serving customers. Merchants recognize they may have to evolve beyond four walls that host retail or dining transactions. When possible, many are attempting to offer unique experiences.
South Bay malls such as Oakridge, Santana Row, Westfield Valley Fair and Stanford Shopping Center have managed to entice customers with a new crop of merchants that in more than a few instances differ from their tenants prior to the arrival of the coronavirus.
At Westfield Oakridge, Sears Roebuck shut its department store and auto sales outlet. Living Spaces has taken over a portion of the Sears site.
Shake Shack is an example of Oakridge shopping mall’s attempt to refresh itself with a new approach.
“Westfield Oakridge is a great destination for shopping in South San Jose and our team is ready to bring our delicious burgers and fries to the community,” said Scott, the spokesperson for Shake Shack. “The Shack is scheduled to open in late 2022.”
