Millbrae could be getting T&T Supermarket

Now, T&T has filed a conditional use permit application for the property, proposing interior and exterior improvements to the building, including upgrades that would create an on-site cafe and bakery as well as an outdoor dining area near the main entry, according to a press release from the city. 

Millbrae previously zoned the lot for a wide variety of uses, including high-density mixed-use development that could include housing. The zoning change means building heights could reach around 85 feet. With density bonuses for affordable housing, it could be as tall as 125 feet.

While City Manager Tom Williams previously said Millbrae would like to work with the property owner, Howard Properties, to develop affordable housing on site, that’s ultimately up to their discretion. 

“It’s zoned for a wide variety of uses — could be housing, [a] grocery store,” Williams said. “It is up to the property owner, whatever they desire to utilize for their property.” 

Howard Properties did not immediately respond to a request for comment on a future T&T Supermarket at the location and the property’s long-term possibilities. 

T&T Supermarket is the largest Asian supermarket chain in Canada and has been making recent forays into the Bay Area, though no locations have opened as of yet. The opening of a San Jose T&T, to be located at the Westgate Shopping Center, has been delayed to spring 2026. Another San Francisco location was originally slated for winter 2026. 

In Millbrae, T&T will require Planning Commission approval for its conditional use permit before moving forward with construction. That hearing should occur in winter 2026, Community Development Director Andrew Mogensen said. 

The store’s application to the city said the opening of a Millbrae location should generate roughly 300 new jobs and could see up to 5,000 customers a day, he said. 

When Lucky closed, Williams said he heard from community members who were disappointed they’d no longer have the grocery store nearby. Another grocery store in the city will likely be good news for residents, he said. 

“When Lucky’s went out of business, we did get feedback, people were desirous of that use, and were disappointed that Lucky’s had closed,” Williams said. “I think it’s going to be quite a bit of excitement for a grocery store.” 

T&T Supermarket did not immediately respond to a request for comment about their plans or timeline for a Millbrae location.