If you’ve walked through the mall lately, you’ve probably noticed that the Lansdowne Centre food scene is undergoing some major surgery.
While we’ve all been hearing about the massive 20-year redevelopment master plan, the mall’s interior is currently seeing its biggest shakeup in over a decade. From global coffee giants to the loss of 15-year staples, here is the state of the Lansdowne Centre food scene right now.
1. Cotti Coffee Makes a Splash
The world’s fourth-largest coffee chain has officially landed, adding a global spark to the Lansdowne Centre food scene. Cotti Coffee opened its second Metro Vancouver location right next to T&T Supermarket, just weeks after its Burnaby debut.
They’ve been aggressive with their pricing—most drinks stay under the $6 mark. If you download their app, you can even snag your first order for just $1. Between the “daily spin” deals and the viral Pampas Blue Coconut Latte, they are clearly gunning for the mall’s caffeine-addicted crowd.
2. A Sad Goodbye: My Coffee Lease Not Renewed
After 15 years in the food court, My Coffee has officially closed its doors. While many suspected competition played a role, a letter posted to their Instagram confirmed a different reality: their lease was simply not renewed.
Despite being a reliable tenant for over a decade and a half, the mall made the decision for them. This move leaves a prime corner stall empty and has many regulars wondering what the mall has planned for that specific spot in the Lansdowne Centre food scene.
3. One Cafe Replaces Villa Vietnamese
The “HK Cafe” trend is officially taking over. Villa Vietnamese has quietly shuttered, ending its run as a staple for cheap Banh Mi. Taking its place is One Cafe, which is opening its third Richmond outpost right here.
One Cafe already boasts massive success at Parker Place and Empire Centre. While the stall is currently under renovation, expect long lines for their famous baked pork chop rice once they officially join the Lansdowne Centre food scene.
4. Baskin-Robbins Returns to Richmond
Diagonally across from Cotti, the old Canada Post spot is getting a sweet makeover. Baskin-Robbins is taking over the space, marking a major return for the “31 Flavours” brand in Richmond. This will be their second new location in the city and should provide some much-needed dessert competition for the food court.
The Bigger Picture: Redevelopment Plans
Why is the Lansdowne Centre food scene changing so much now? It likely ties into the massive Master Plan. The city is preparing to turn this 50-acre asphalt parking lot into “Richmond’s New Downtown.”
The 20-year vision includes:
- Richmond’s New Downtown: A world-class energy centre with 700,000 sq. ft. of new retail.
- Public Space: Over 10 acres of new parkland, including a 5-acre “Festival Park.”
- Affordable Housing: 3.9 million sq. ft. of residential space (30% affordable/rental).
While the mall itself will eventually face demolition, that won’t happen for years. Phase 1 is currently focused on the northeast corner. For now, the mall remains a “co-existence zone” where new brands are clearly eager to get a foothold before the area transforms.
Which of these changes are you most excited about? Let us know on Instagram!
