Westfield Oakridge Mall has been a part of my life for over four decades since my teenage years, but it's seen significant changes. In the past, we had better stores and nicer department stores, like Macy's with a wide range of contemporary and luxury brands. Now, the Macy’s offers basic styles and mid-tier brands, many of which are cluttered on rolling racks by the dressing rooms.

Unfortunately, all the designer women’s brand stores have disappeared, and now it's more of a neighborhood hangout for teenagers and high school kids. It feels like a downgrade, and if you're looking for something nicer, you have to drive to Valleyfair, which can be overcrowded, or all the way to Stanford, which is beautiful but quite a distance away.

The only standout for me at Westfield Oakridge Mall is Sanraku, one of my favorite sushi places. Apart from that, there's the usual mix of national chains, occasional visits to Target, and now the 99 Ranch Asian market, making it more of a place for errands than a shopping experience. It's not an ideal place for dates unless you’re looking for sports viewing options with friends at BJ, Slater 50/50 or Cheesecake Factory.

The mall selection caters more towards Gen Z and Gen Alpha. And it has a youngsters vibe with too many sneakers shops and young clothing stores. I wish management would consider older shoppers (Gen X) who can afford to live in the area and buy nicer products at this once cooler mall before Westfield took it over!