T&T Supermarket opened at Oxford and Wonderland this week, and the turnout was massive. We’re talking hundreds of people in line before the doors even opened.

The new store brings a huge selection of Asian foods and specialty items to London. It’s the city’s newest grocery option, and it’s already drawing serious crowds.

The Opening Day Lineups Were No Joke

Early morning shoppers reported waiting 45 minutes just to get inside. The queues wrapped around the building and extended well beyond the plaza. Some estimates put the peak crowd at around 500 people.

The first 200 customers scored $10 gift cards. Even hours after opening, the lineups stayed substantial.

It’s Actually Part of Loblaws (But Don’t Let That Stop You)

Here’s the thing: T&T Supermarket is owned by Loblaws. While many London residents have been boycotting Loblaws-owned stores, T&T offers products and services that aren’t available elsewhere in the city.

The store operates somewhat independently from other Loblaws locations, with its own distinct identity and product focus.

What Makes T&T Different from Other Asian Grocery Stores

London already has United Supermarket and Superking, but T&T brings something different. The store features an in-house bakery making fresh Hong Kong-style pineapple buns, milk bread, and beef curry rolls.

There’s also a hot food station serving fresh dim sum, barbecue meats, and other prepared Asian dishes. Think Peking duck carved fresh, char siu pork, and steamed dumplings you can grab and go.

The Selection Is Reportedly Massive

Shoppers who’ve visited other T&T locations describe the product selection as significantly broader than what’s currently available in London. Specialty ingredients for Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Southeast Asian cuisines that were previously difficult to source locally.

The store also carries Asian beauty products, cookware, and household items alongside the extensive food selection. For people looking for specific ingredients and products, this means no more trips to the GTA or Waterloo.

It Replaced Food Island (RIP)

The new T&T location sits where Food Island previously operated. Food Island closed to make way for the development.

The closure was particularly felt by locals who relied on the walkable shopping option, especially those without cars who previously had to travel further to United or Superking locations.

Local Reaction Has Been Mixed

Online discussions reveal a split in local opinion. Some residents are thrilled about the expanded options and convenience, while others are frustrated about supporting another Loblaws venture during ongoing boycotts.

Some locals are committed to continuing their support of independent Asian grocery stores, viewing them as alternatives that keep money in the community rather than flowing to corporate giants.

The London Location Is Supposedly Huge

Early visitors report that the London T&T location is significantly larger than the Waterloo store, with comparisons being made to the massive Mississauga flagship location. The store occupies a substantial portion of the Oxford and Wonderland plaza, taking over multiple former storefronts.

If you’ve been, what did you think of the selection?