Definition of the word food hall

The term "food hall" originated in the United States during the late 19th century. At that time, department stores, such as Macy's and Marshall Field's, started incorporating cafeterias and food counters into their establishments as a way to provide daily sustenance to shoppers. These self-service dining areas came to be known as "restaurant departments" or "refectories." As the popularity of these in-store dining options grew, the term "food hall" began to emerge. It was a catchy moniker that encompassed the concept of a space devoted entirely to food, as opposed to a restaurant or cafeteria that was part of another establishment. The first designated food halls appeared in the 1920s in major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, with notable examples like Grand Central Station's Oyster Bar in New York City and Wannamaker's in Philadelphia. Food halls continued to gain traction in the latter half of the 20th century as people became increasingly interested in diverse and global cuisine. These establishments allowed them to sample a variety of dishes all in one place without the need to travel. The growing popularity of street food and food trucks also contributed to the rise of food halls, as many vendors opted to establish a permanent location inside these spaces. Today, food halls are a trendy and popular option in many urban areas, with some becoming large-scale attractions that boast multiple dining options and seating areas. The concept has also spread to other parts of the world, with food halls emerging in Europe and Asia as well.