Developers turn to unique eateries as ammunition in the ‘amenities arms race.’ By David Cohen In an effort to inoculate their mixed-use office and multifamily projects against the threat of e-commerce competitors, developers are increasingly incorporating food halls into their properties to attract tenants. “Food halls are the latest and greatest in the amenities arms race,” says Aaron Jodka, research director at Colliers International in Boston. “While most buildings are able to find ways to add bike storage, a gym, conference spaces or game rooms, not everyone can accommodate a food hall. It’s a unique differentiating factor in the marketplace, and we are starting to see that really expand.” There isn’t a single accepted definition of a food hall, but most agree that it is a collection of local artisan restaurants and other boutique food-oriented retailers under one roof. Some are large and include 30 or more vendors, others are smaller or specialize in only one type of cuisine. Some food halls are more bar-centric and include a variety of drink offerings, others focus more on the dining aspect. Above all, a food hall can be differentiated from the traditional mall food court by the uniqueness of culinary offerings. A …
