Pick and Choose: Taking over the space in Jardine House formerly occupied by Grappa’s Cellar is BaseHall, an ambitious new concept that aims to elevate and modernize Asia’s food hall culture.

Look & Feel: First off, BaseHall is pretty big (and rumour is that an expansion is already being discussed). As far as food halls go, this one’s pretty stylish, with modern brass light fixtures, clean lines, and a minimalist palette of green-greys, browns, and whites. Even the seating and tables might be considered a little plush for the situation. Around the outer fringes, you’ll find dedicated kiosks for each of the 10 F&B outlets which dish up food and drink throughout the day. Things really kick off in the evening, though, when the music’s pumping (DJs make the occasional appearance) and rainbow lighting in the ceiling turn the whole place into a glorified disco.

Sustainability is key here, so you’ll notice eco-friendly elements throughout BaseHall, including compostable food packaging and cutlery. The eagle-eyed may spot fixtures from the former iteration of Michelin-starred restaurant Amber in various parts of the space; diners will also be glad to know that BaseHall has partnered with St James’ Settlement, a food assistance program, to distribute leftover food and minimize waste.

On the Menu: Where to start? This is a food hall, and in line with their aim to elevate the experience, BaseHall has brought in some of the best casual eateries in town – 10 of them, to be exact. The BaseHall Bar – which we hear is being helmed by a certain five-star hotel located in close proximity – dishes up all the booze your heart could wish for, along with a menu of bar bites (you’ll want to try the classic cheese sandwich).

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it here. Hankering for pub grub? Head to Pub 1842 (managed by Young Master Ales) for a pint and pie (or butter chicken curry). Feeling like classic Asian  comfort food? Try Return of Lemak for (what else?) nasi lemak and laksa, Moyo Sik for Korean with a bang, or perhaps Co Thanh for a hefty banh mi. Want to indulge without completely throwing your healthy habits off track? Head straight for Treehouse and chow down on their willow flatbread.

We have to give a little love to Westside Taqueria – from the team at 11 Westside – for their solid tacos (we hear they also do loaded nachos and fries!) and Cookie DPT, which will be churning out their decadent sweet treats fresh and hot out the oven.

Great For: A quick lunch, when you can’t make up what cuisine you’re in the mood for, or a drink and bite before a night on the town.

FYI: You can place your orders at the cashiers by the main entrance or directly with the food kiosk; you’ll then be given a little buzzer – when it goes off, you can go and collect your food and drinks.

Check out Hong Kong’s newest restaurants and bars here.

This writeup was based on a complimentary media tasting. The Loop HK doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.