Photo Credit: AZ Central
While Scottsdale gets plenty of attention for its upscale dining scene and luxury shopping, something equally exciting is happening just down the road in Mesa…and it’s a reminder that the Valley’s most interesting growth often comes as a result of its own maturity and diversity.
Mesa’s Asian District recently completed a $10 million expansion of Mekong Plaza, adding twelve new businesses and 32,000 square feet of retail and dining space. The project brings approximately 200 new jobs to the area and features exciting additions like Haidilao Hot Pot and Udon Shin, alongside more than 100 specialty shops serving the region’s growing Asian American community.
What makes Mekong Plaza particularly significant is its accessibility and inclusiveness. The plaza is directly accessible via Valley Metro light rail and bus routes, making it a true regional destination rather than an exclusive enclave. You don’t need a luxury car to experience authentic Vietnamese pho, browse specialty Asian grocers, or enjoy legitimate hot pot; you just need curiosity and a transit pass.
For Scottsdale residents who sometimes wonder if the Valley offers enough cultural depth beyond resort spas and steakhouses, Mesa’s Asian District provides a compelling answer. It’s a 20-minute drive from Old Town Scottsdale, yet it offers experiences you simply can’t replicate at another upscale mall or lifestyle center.
The expansion also represents smart urban planning. Rather than generic big-box retail or yet another strip mall, Mesa invested in cultivating a genuine cultural destination that serves both the local Asian American community and draws visitors from across the Valley. Mayor Mark Freeman emphasized that these “strong community partnerships” make Mesa a great place to live, with Chinese and Japanese staples enhancing the city’s appeal.
This is the kind of development that benefits everyone. Small business owners get opportunities to grow, the local economy diversifies, residents gain access to authentic cuisine and specialty goods, and the broader community becomes more culturally connected.
Scottsdale has its strengths: world-class resorts, art galleries, and fine dining. But the Valley thrives when different cities contribute their unique character. Mesa’s investment in Mekong Plaza shows that the most exciting growth doesn’t always come from luxury developments. Sometimes it comes from celebrating the communities already here and giving them room to flourish.
Next time you’re planning dinner, skip the usual Scottsdale spots and head east; explore the fruits of our beautifully diverse metroplex. Your taste buds, as well as your understanding of what makes the Valley special, will thank you.