Food court culture on the rise

KATHMANDU, April 13: Many of us may not have indulged in culinary adventures because the concept of food court is something new in our society. But many people have started frequenting food courts in recent years to enjoy gastronomical delights that food courts offer.



One of the benefits of going to food court is the availability of wide array of food items from around the world. If you want to have a hearty meal but do not know where to dine, food court is the place to be as they offer a wide variety of food items under a single roof. Food courts are not just becoming popular but are developing as a culture, according to food court operators.[break]



Lok Nath Bhattarai, manager at Tangerine Food Court at Naxal, said they have on offer a variety of food items.



"We are getting impressive number of visitors as we have central paying system and an open bar," he added. He also added that Indian, Chinese, Thai and Newari dishes are very popular among customers at Tangerine. "We are soon opening Pizza Express and a South Indian kitchen," Bhattarai said.



Tangerine currently has nine stalls, including an open bar.



The food court at The Blue Bird Mall is witnessing increasing footfalls in recent months. Shiva Basnet, supervisor at the food court, said, "The trend of visiting food court is increasing day by day as it is the best option to enjoy variety of food items under a single place."



He also said food court business is not a seasonal one as shoppers generally dine after completing shopping errands.



Food items at the food court at The Blue Bird Mall starts from Rs 50 for a plate of veg Mo:Mo.



Food courts reflect culinary diversity in the world as they offer cuisines from Indian to Chinese, Italian, Continental, and Thailand to our own Newari dishes. The popularity of food courts has become so big that almost all the shopping malls in the town have food courts.



Bits and Bites Food Court at NLIC City Center at Kamal Pokhari is also witnessing rise in footfalls in recent months. Amit Agrawal, manager at Bits and Bites, said almost 75 percent of total shoppers at City Center visit the food court during weekends.



However, menu at City Center is comparatively expensive that other food courts in the town. Agrawal said menu prices at Bits and Bites are slightly higher due to facilities like 24 hours air conditioning, electricity back up and Wi-Fi connection.

Related story

Eating junk food is bad for health!