The Canopy, a new 12-acre open-air retail and dining hub adjacent to the Great Park tennis courts, is slated to begin opening later this year. Developed by Almquist, the project aims to provide new restaurants, shops, and gathering places for Irvine residents. Dan Almquist, CEO of Almquist, stated that the hub will not only serve the needs of Great Park visitors but also “enhance their everyday lifestyle.” He anticipates it will become a “one-of-a-kind draw for the community” as the Great Park continues to grow.
Among the announced tenants is Shootz, a Hawaiian-Asian-fusion comfort-food chain. Michael Dancel, one of four co-founders, noted that the park’s layout makes it ideal for “family gatherings – which is precisely what we’re about.” The restaurant is preparing to cater to families attending soccer practices and to host events like baby showers and birthday parties. Shootz, established in 2019 by Dancel and three friends, has gained popularity at its five Southern California locations for its signature dish of kimchi butter served on chicken katsu and shrimp. Dancel mentioned that “shootz” is Hawaiian slang for “let’s go!” and reflects the brand’s energetic start, aiming to be “more than a place to go get lunch.” This location is expected to open late this year or in early 2027.
Other dining establishments confirmed for The Canopy include In-N-Out Burger, Philz Coffee, and H&H Bagels. Osen Urban Table, a new concept from Irvine’s Izakaya Osen, will also be part of the hub. Chef-owner Damon Cho described Osen Urban Table as an “approachable and modern” restaurant focusing on Japanese flavors. Cho emphasized that the menu will depend on the “quality of ingredients and attention to detail.” He expressed a desire for Urban Table to develop “its own identity as a neighborhood restaurant” that residents can enjoy regularly, with significant thought put into the food, design, and service to make it “a place the Irvine community can call its own.”
For shopping, The Canopy will feature Free People Movement and Solestage, offering trendy clothing, sneakers, and accessories. A significant addition is T&T Supermarket, a large Canadian-based grocery chain. This will be its first Orange County location, occupying approximately 34,000 square feet, providing staples to the area.
The Canopy is designed to cater to Irvine families, fitness enthusiasts, and food connoisseurs. The developers and tenants aim to integrate the new offerings seamlessly into the daily life of Irvine residents. Michael Dancel of Shootz shared his excitement about joining the collection of brands and talent at the location. The new hub is part of the ongoing development to make the Great Park more dynamic, providing a central point for retail and dining experiences.
