A new brick-and-mortar restaurant is headed to Market Square, the retail center near Sacramento’s Arden Fair mall.
According to a news release from Sacramento-based Fulcrum Property, which owns the center at 1735 Arden Way, the group is reimagining Market Square as “a vibrant hub for connection, dining, and local experiences, bringing new life to a familiar place through thoughtful design and creative partnerships.”
Leading the charge is Chow by SacYard, a collaboration between Chow Food and SacYard Community Tap House that blends “chef-driven comfort food” with the lively, communal energy of a neighborhood tap house. Inside, guests can expect an open, welcoming space built for shared meals, casual hangouts, and events that celebrate Sacramento’s ever-growing food and beverage scene.
As part of the larger overhaul, the former food court is being reimagined into a “bright, greenhouse-inspired space, filled with greenery, natural light, and flexible seating” that blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. The redesign aligns with Fulcrum’s goal of curating spaces that encourage connection and exploration.
Chow is helmed by Aimal Formoli, the longtime Sacramento chef who operated Formoli’s Bistro in East Sacramento for 14 years before its 2018 closure. He also owns The Cannery Place, a culinary-driven event venue in downtown Sacramento.
“We’re activating Market Square in a way that brings people together, not just to shop, but to connect,” said Mark Friedman, Chairman and Founder of Fulcrum Property, in a statement. “By introducing new dining and entertainment experiences, reimagining the architecture, and curating spaces that invite interaction, we’re transforming Market Square into a place that reflects Sacramento’s evolving energy and community spirit.”
Construction is underway, and Chow by SacYard is projected to open before the end of 2025. A representative for Fulcrum told What Now Sacramento that both the menu and opening date should be more firmly set by mid-December, so stay tuned for updates.
