T&T Supermarket Expands into California with New Store in Irvine
T&T Supermarket, Canada’s largest Asian grocery chain, is set to open a new location in Irvine, California, in early 2026. This store will mark one of the first entries of T&T into the U.S. grocery market, building on the company’s established success in Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto, where it operates over 33 stores.
Overview of the New Location
The upcoming supermarket will occupy 34,000 square feet in a new mixed-use development known as the Canopy at Great Park, which is currently under construction by Southern California developer Almquist. The Canopy will feature a total of 90,000 square feet dedicated to shopping, dining, and community spaces.
What to Expect from the Irvine Store
The T&T Supermarket in Irvine promises a diverse shopping experience, offering a wide range of fresh produce as well as a variety of prepared foods, reminiscent of traditional Asian street food. Among the highlights will be:
- Hot food selections, including classics like Peking Duck.
- A comprehensive range of Asian wines and spirits.
- Unique T&T private label products.
- A bakery featuring popular Asian treats such as lava mochi puffs and Portuguese egg tarts.
Anticipated Market Competition
As T&T enters the Irvine market, it will be joining a competitive landscape of established Asian grocery stores. Notable competitors include H Mart and Mitsuwa Marketplace, along with 99 Ranch and Zion Market, which serve the vibrant local community. Irvine itself has a population of over 300,000, with nearly 45% identifying as Asian.
T&T Supermarket’s Background
Founded in British Columbia in 1993, T&T Supermarket was acquired by Canadian retailer Loblaw Companies in 2009 but continues to operate as an independent subsidiary. The company is currently managed by Tina Lee, daughter of the founder, who took on the role of CEO in 2014.
Looking Ahead: Expansion Plans
The Irvine supermarket will follow the chain’s first U.S. location, which opened in Bellevue, Washington, in December 2024. Future plans also include additional stores in San Francisco and San Jose by the end of next year. In a statement, Tina Lee expressed excitement for the expansion, recognizing the demand for T&T across the United States: “Ever since we announced our U.S. entry, we have been getting customer requests all across the United States. I know T&T may not be well-known in Irvine, but we are excited to surprise our shoppers with a unique shopping experience.”