London is to get three new high-end food halls, according to plans announced by Market Halls, a group of UK-based property investors and restaurateurs.
The first venue will open in Fulham in the spring, with Victoria opening in the summer and a third location, off Oxford Street, opening in the autumn.
Each Market Hall location will capitalise on the growing fascination with street food, but the hubs are intended to be permanent, with different kitchens ranged around seating areas under fixed covers. The sites will have plates, bowls, glasses and cutlery like a conventional restaurant, which the founders hope will underscore their environmental credentials.
Market Halls is also at pains to point out its community links. It has suggested that the look and feel of each venue will be determined by the people who trade there, with the team drawing on relationships with local traders and encouraging “events programmes and schools outreach”.
The site opening in the spring at the entrance hall of Fulham Broadway Tube station will be of modest size, restricted to 10 kitchens and seating for 180.
However the Oxford Street venue opening in the autumn will be altogether more ambitious. Described as the “flagship venue”, it is intended to be the largest food hall in the UK. Based in the former BHS building, it will capitalise on the planned pedestrianisation of the area and introduce retailers, event spaces and a demo kitchen.
“Food is the new rock and roll,” said Simon Anderson, restaurants and operations director of Market Hall. “We’re providing the perfect stage.”
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