Over 40% of consumers today choose to visit a mall based on its dining options, so it is no wonder City Center One is a favorite hotspot in Zagreb.

Food is becoming the new anchor in today’s competitive retail environment, driving more foot traffic and increasing dwell times in shopping centers.

Studies show that consumers spend up to 35% more time in shopping centers when diverse, high-quality dining options are available, and over 40% of visitors select malls based on their food offerings.

This trend was recognized by Hyprop Investments Limited, the owners of City Center One West, and its partner CC Real.

CC Real is a leading real estate management company in Croatia, overseeing four shopping centers.

“The trading analysis showed that expanding the food court GLA at City Center one West was the right move. Strong demand and a long list of interested food operators further supported this decision. These operators cover a wide range of cuisines and concepts, from international to local flavors. With initial support and approval from the owner, and after relocating existing tenants, we created five new restaurant units within an additional 360 m². A new dishwashing area and staff wardrobe space were also added.”,  -CC Real management.

By adding five new restaurants and expanding its food court offerings to 14 venues, along with refreshing the seating area, the mall now provides a more vibrant and diverse dining experience for all visitors.

“Over the past year, City Center one West welcomed around 6 million visitors, with many choosing to visit the Food Court. Our research and on-the-ground insights highlighted the growing importance of the shopping and dining experience. This led the owner and us, as the management company, to conclude that it was time to expand this segment. The changes focused not only on enhancing the food offerings but also on transforming the entire Food Court into a more inviting and comfortable space. This approach strengthens the center’s position and boosts foot traffic, turnover, and dwell time.”  – CC Real management.

A New Look: Transforming the Space

CC Real understood that simply introducing new restaurants is not enough; it’s equally important to create a more inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment.

The updated design features increased greenery, modern furniture, and improved lighting, all of which contribute to a relaxed, welcoming ambiance.

These enhancements cater to the growing demand for shopping centers to evolve into community hubs where visitors can dine and socialize in a comfortable and stylish setting.

“The new design introduces a vibrant gastro market concept, capturing the energy of urban food festivals. The space is now lighter and brighter, with added greenery, string lights, and updated signage. Other upgrades include more seating, improved access from the parking garage, a privacy buffer between restaurants and the dining area, a refreshed kids’ seating area, and a cozy lounge space.” – CC Real management.

Five New Restaurants to Satisfy Every Craving

The five new additions bring a wide range of flavors and culinary experiences, rounding out the food court’s offerings to 14 restaurants in total, ensuring there’s something for every visitor.

1. Grandma Fogg serves up nostalgic pizzas inspired by traditional recipes, using top-quality ingredients like wild boar mortadella with truffles.

2. Yun Chinese Food offers a rich array of popular Chinese dishes, from spring rolls to wok specialties, perfect for those looking for bold and exotic flavors.

3. Burger Bros features hand-crafted, juicy burgers made with premium meat and fresh ingredients, catering to meat lovers.

4. Fish Delish brings seafood lovers a creative twist on classic fish dishes, offering everything from fish burgers to the beloved fish and chips.

5. Chevap by Duje Pisac re-imagines traditional ćevapi, made with carefully aged beef and served with top-tier side dishes like local kajmak and ajvar.

“With these new concepts, we aimed to enhance our offerings by bringing together restaurants that had never been available under one roof. Visitors can now enjoy an expanded and unique dining experience that covers a wide range of local and international cuisines. This positions City Center one West as one of the shopping centers with the most diverse food selection in Croatia.” – CC Real management.

Why Food is the Future of Shopping Centers?

Food has become a critical component of the overall shopping center strategy as consumer preferences shift toward more experience-driven shopping trips.

The new food court at City Center one West, with its expanded restaurant offerings and upgraded aesthetic, positions the center as a premier destination for shopping, dining, and socializing.

These changes are expected to drive increased foot traffic and longer dwell times, reinforcing the importance of food as the new anchor in modern retail spaces.

“Each shopping center requires a tailored approach depending on its market, location, and size. The key is understanding the needs of our visitors. As real estate managers, we focus on creating environments that not only meet but exceed these expectations. Based on research findings and our insights, the synergy between dining and shopping will remain essential for CC Real in managing other centers in our portfolio.” – CC Real management.

About CC Real

The company, headquartered in Vienna, with local offices in Croatia, Finland, and Australia and partnerships in the UK and the US, is a full-service real estate asset and investment management company.

It offers in-house investment (AIFM), capital, asset, property, facility and development management, architectural design, project management, and environmental consulting (EU Taxonomy).

For more information, visit cc-real.com