Food Halls: Trends in 2023

Food halls have been in the industry for decades attracting more than a million consumers a year to shop, buy foodstuffs, eat, and converse in a single, fixed place. They are typically urban offering dishes designed for quick, solitary eating, and are a top draw for local merchants ranging from fresh produce to emerging chefs chipping up casual eats. 

It’s a trend duplicated all over Southeast Asia, with food halls usually known as ‘food courts’.  While these food halls are unceasing and will continue to become a necessity for consumers looking for value and quickness, there are opportunities to further drive additional business. 

Focus on breakfast and lunch daypart

With an increasing number of people working from home either full-time or part-time, food halls should offer a familiar and modernized fare for breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Artisan breakfast options, handmade pastas and wraps can be an attraction. 

Incorporate deals and delivery services

While expanding menu options for peak hours of the day can drive foot traffic, offering attractive deals and combos can further boost business such as coupons or loyalty programs. Other than that, offering delivery and pick-up services encourages purchase from remote customers on days with low traffic.

Utilize social media

Although food halls are a common thing, operators could reach out to the lesser-known market through creating engaging content on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. This is where offers and deals can also be advertised.

It’s also important to note that seating areas should be maintained clean, comfortable, and inviting to allow guests to stay longer. And finally, because monthly visits consist of mostly Gen Z and Millenials, food should focus on value, nutrition, and diversity. 

With so many choices close at hand, food halls offer operators a unique, low-risk opportunity to try something out of the ordinary.