A Mexican supermarket and retail chain is preparing to open its first store in the Bay Area by taking over a long-vacant retail space in a prominent shopping and dining center in San Jose.

Vallarta Supermarkets, established nearly 40 years ago in Southern California by a Mexican immigrant family, has signed a lease for a large space at The Plant shopping center. The new location, set in the former Toys ‘R Us and Babies ‘R Us building at Curtner Avenue and Monterey Road, is the largest vacancy in The Plant and has been unoccupied since 2018. “This partnership represents a major step in revitalizing the center and enhancing the shopping experience for the local community,” said Chris Nichelson, an executive with Milan Capital Management.

The leasing transaction was facilitated by brokers Jeff Badstubner from JLL, Jim Randolph from Newmark, and Joe Nunez from Westford Law.

The addition of Vallarta Supermarkets is expected to draw significant foot traffic, thanks to its prime location between Target and Home Depot. Property owners Arc Capital and Milan Capital believe this strategic placement will help boost The Plant’s recovery.

Founded in 1985 by Enrique Gonzalez Sr. in Van Nuys, California, Vallarta began as a small butcher shop, Carniceria Vallarta, and grew into a family business involving Gonzalez’s four brothers, son, and nephew. Today, the chain operates about 55 locations across California, with its nearest stores to the Bay Area in Watsonville and Salinas.

Known for its authentic offerings tailored to the Latino community, Vallarta Supermarkets will occupy 65,000 square feet in The Plant. The store will provide a full-service grocery experience, including a cocina serving traditional Mexican and Central American dishes, fresh-cut meats, seafood, organic produce, a tortilleria, and a juice and aguas frescas bar.

The store is expected to open in the second half of 2026, marking a significant achievement for Arc Capital Partners and Milan Capital Management, who acquired The Plant for $95 million in August. Property owners view Vallarta’s arrival as a cornerstone of their efforts to rejuvenate the shopping center.