Wash Ave Food Hall targeting October 2026 opening

Wash Ave Food Hall (1122 Washington), the highly anticipated hospitality concept planned for downtown’s Washington Avenue, is now targeting an October 2026 opening, according to an updated announcement from developer Oliver Properties. The project will transform the former home of Reign nightclub and Copia Restaurant and Wine Garden into a 10,000-square-foot destination, featuring eight food-and-beverage concepts, two central bars, and an indoor-outdoor social space beneath a retractable roof.

The Concept

Developed by Oliver Properties, the food hall will feature six full-kitchen vendors and two specialty concepts. Unlike traditional food halls, Wash Ave Food Hall is being designed as an actively programmed venue that combines dining, entertainment, and social interaction. Guests will be able to order from multiple vendors in a single transaction through an integrated technology platform, while a dedicated gaming and interactive social space aims to encourage longer visits and repeat customers.

Courtesy of Wash Ave Food Hall

Courtesy of Wash Ave Food Hall

“This is not just a food hall—it’s an anchor for connection, relationships, food and experience,” says Alex Oliver of Oliver Properties. “We are creating a place where people don’t just come to eat—they come to visit, connect with others, and be part of the energy of the Washington Avenue neighborhood.”

St. Louis-based Raineri Construction is overseeing construction management, while FIRETEN Hospitality, a national food hall operator, will manage daily operations. Construction is expected to be completed in late summer 2026.

Why It Matters

The project represents another significant investment in Washington Avenue as downtown stakeholders seek to strengthen the district’s appeal as a walkable neighborhood and entertainment destination. Oliver Properties says it has invested more than $150 million in the area, including the development of more than 650 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space.

The food hall’s location places it within walking distance of Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village, Energizer Park, Enterprise Center, America’s Center, Union Station, City Museum, and the Gateway Arch. Oliver believes the venue’s mix of dining, entertainment, and convenience will appeal to convention attendees, downtown residents, and office workers alike.

“The most successful hospitality destinations today are the ones that give people a reason to stay, interact, and come back,” says Natalie Zabiegalski, chief operating officer of FIRETEN Hospitality.

Jeremy Barker, chief executive officer of FIRETEN Hospitality, adds that the project represents the next evolution of the food hall model. “Food halls have evolved beyond simply providing multiple dining options under one roof,” says Barker. “The future belongs to places that combine food, beverage, entertainment, technology, and social interaction into a seamless experience. Wash Ave Food Hall is being built as a true community gathering place, and we believe it has the potential to become one of the most exciting hospitality destinations in the Midwest.”

Additional vendor announcements, leadership appointments, and project updates are expected in the coming months. Limited space exists for additional vendors at this time; vendors can apply here.

Editor’s note: This article has been updated from the original version.

Learn more about Wash Ave Food Hall and other exciting restaurant openings on the Arch Eats podcast.