Last week, we reported about spotting signs for Cha Don’s second Richmond location going up inside Yaohan Centre.
And now, the popular Hong Kong-style food stall’s new outpost is officially open and already drawing a crowd.
Taking over the former Curry House unit, Cha Don is the only cha chaan teng–style stall in the bustling Yaohan food court.
We dropped by around 2 PM on their second day, and despite the late hour, the line was still going strong.
It is a sign to the loyal following Cha Don has built since launching at Empire Centre last year.
Aside from the much better parking situation and more seating, the Yaohan location also has an extended menu.
While you’ll still find many of the classic favourites from Empire Centre like baked pork chop on rice, pineapple bun sandwiches, and their signature creamy milk tea, the Yaohan stall introduces entirely new sections.
The Curry and Chow Mein lineup is completely new to Cha Don, offering options like curry beef brisket and tendon over rice, stir-fried pork chop with macaroni, XO sauce pork chop over spaghetti, and Singapore-style vermicelli.
The all-day breakfast offerings have also grown.
Dishes like White Sauce Mushroom and Shredded Chicken Macaroni and the Luncheon Meat, Cheese, and Shrimp Oil Instant Noodles (Dry Mix) are new additions exclusive to this location.
The good thing is that the format and pricing are nearly identical to Empire Centre, with hearty all-day breakfast sets and baked rice dishes clocking in under $15.
We tried the Tom Yum Shredded Chicken Macaroni, which is one of new all-day breakfast items that also comes with their signature scrambled eggs and buttered toast.
Personally, the satay beef is still our favourite.
We also grabbed their new Red Bean Ice, but it lacked ice in our opinion.
Operationally, they’re still ironing out a few things (as expected during a soft open), but the team seemed upbeat and focused.
Another huge perk of the Yaohan location is its extended hours, especially compared to the Empire Centre one, which shutters by 4:30 PM.
Cha Don now joins other new food arrivals in Richmond like Mikan Shabu and Chahalo.
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Address: Yaohan Centre Food Court, Richmond BC