Do you remember the food court at your local mall? Or when food trucks started pulling up in popular gathering places? Both examples, even if quite different, offered an experience. You were able to hang out with friends and get whatever you wanted to eat or join in a line to try something new and on-trend. Now food halls are popping up at the same speed, bringing unique flavors, interesting concepts, and a communal experience all under one roof. Perhaps a mash-up, of sorts, intended to offer something to all while encouraging diners to linger a little longer.

The growth is unmistakable. In fact, there were more than 100 food halls scattered across the country in 2016, according to data from commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield, with a prediction to double by this year. In addition, a direct correlation is being drawn between the rise of food trucks and the rise of food halls—for many of the same reasons. Convenience, variety, speed, and the fun of discovery all come to mind, with the added bonus of a controlled atmosphere, a place to sit, and a sense of community. Plus, big names in the culinary world are in on the game and offering additional credibility.

Plenty of inspiration can be found by walking through the halls and observing the food choices made by guests. We’ve been known to wander about and try new foods. Ponce City Market in Atlanta, GA is a favorite with its mixed use of space and rotating lineup of venues and celebrity chef centered spots. Revival Food Hall in Chicago is an all-local dining concept spanning 24,000 square feet and highlighting Chicago chefs and favorite neighborhood restaurants. Latinicity, also in Chicago, focuses specifically on Latin street food with eight innovative kitchens, a Mexican restaurant, coffee café, full bar, and lounge. Pine Street Market in Portland, OR brings the city’s first food hall to curious consumers with nine of Portland’s best chefs and purveyors, all in one place. And the list goes on, with spots around the world that are worth exploring.

As food halls spread to more cities and continue to fill the empty spaces that were once held by traditional retailers, we may see the excitement fade. But for now, we’ll continue to enjoy the experience and take all of the goodness that the halls are bringing our way. Tell us, do you have a favorite food hall?  

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