Still mourning the legacy of Pacha, the iconic Central London hotspot where one of the world’s most-heralded super clubs took its stage has turned its attention from luscious cherry lips to a modern-day, pop-up street food wonderland.
Heralded as a new, sustainable destination for local residents, commuters, workers and visitors to the city, this latest outpost is a diverse and eclectic mix of food and drink encompassing eleven kitchens, a café, three bars celebrating independent British breweries and distillers, across an impressive three levels.
Market Halls is a conglomeration of big hitter names from London’s new food scene, including, Monty’s Deli, Flank, Squirrel, Baozinn and Kerbisher & Malt. The space has also granted new offerings from established entities, such as, Koya Ko by Koya, Gopal’s Corner by Roti King, Super Tacos from Breddos, Nonna Tonda from Fat Tony’s and bunshop from The Marksman.
Market Halls has definitely been welcomed by the capital with a previously severe void of independent restaurants and bars to simply source good food in one of London’s busiest and most-transient areas.
“Victoria is a reinvigorated and dynamic district currently experiencing massive regeneration. We found a site in the heart of Victoria, derelict for years, to restore the building back to its former glory. We look forward to bringing something new and exciting to the area”, comments Market Halls’ Chief Operating Officer, Simon Anderson.
The new hospitality group is undoubtedly redefining the concept of British food halls to turn unloved public spaces with particular architectural or historical interest, public again.
Housed within an original arcade building lining Victoria station and fronting Terminus Place, the space was originally designed by George Sherrin – architect for the station. Over 100 years, the site has inherited a multitude of purposes, including a World War I canteen, restaurant, shopping arcade, and more recently occupied by Pacha nightclub from 2001-2014. Post its closure, the site was converted to electrical rooms and a TfL staff mess for TfL.
Brimming with original London history, the site hosts an array of ornate Edwardian elements and hardy industrial features forming the foundations of Market Halls. Reimagined by architect firm FaulknerBrowns, shortlisted for the AJ100 Practice of the Year by the Architects’ Journal, discreet and minimal moderations respect the existing plans to enhance the Grade II-Listed elevations.
Inside, original elements such as the steel structure and brickwork, roof timbers, stained glass, wood panelling and rough plaster are now exposed with the rebirth of the site as Market Halls. Infusing an industrial chic, the décor works as the perfect backdrop to the bustling kitchens and bar spaces allowing visitors to engage even further with the site’s iconic history. FaulknerBrowns Architects collaborated with W Design Studio Interiors for Market Halls interiors.
And so welcome back Victoria. You’re suddenly on your hot list again.
Market Hall, 191 Victoria Street, London, SW1
markethalls.co.uk
