By the end of the year, we predict that Chicago will be the food hall capital of the country. Details emerged today about another new concept: the 22,000-square-foot dining hall inside 900 North Michigan Shops. Earlier this year, we learned that the mall had teamed with Brendan Sodikoff to curate the space. Now we know that Aster Hall will offer 16 stations known as "vaults," including Green Street Smoked Meats, Small Cheval and 3 Greens Market. In addition to those established outposts, Sodikoff will feature stands that serve everything from "street tacos to sushi, bread-bowl chowder to vegan bowls, hot dogs to ramen, and more," according to a press release. Hogsalt darling Doughnut Vault will serve baked goods and coffee on the first floor of the shopping center. The elevated food court is expected to open in November.
"I wanted to do this because I thought it was a wonderful opportunity to bring more vibrance to that end of Michigan Avenue," Sodikoff said in the release. "When I think of Chicago, I think about being part of the city, and this seemed like a great way to contribute, to invest in the place we all live. Chances like this don’t come along very often."
Guests will be able to request food through self-order screens scattered throughout the shopping complex or on their phones (presumably through a mobile app). Opening just in time for the holiday season, Aster Hall will be the place to go for a cheeseburger after shopping for presents at Bloomingdale's.