City Cast DC Food Halls Took Over DC — But Are They All Mid?
Nov 12, 2025
Anna Spiegel, a food and dining reporter for Axios, dives into the chaotic world of food halls in D.C., specifically focusing on the new chain, Wonder. She reveals the food hall's virtual concept and tech-driven approach, which raises questions about its dining experience. Critically, Anna shares her tasting adventures, mixed feelings about quality, and insights on Wonder's expansion strategy in urban areas. The discussion highlights the challenges of food hall sustainability and what sets a successful food hall apart from traditional food courts.
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Host’s Bad Wonder Experience Sparked This Episode
- Bridget Todd described a notably bad dining experience at Wonder that prompted skepticism about the format.
- Anna Spiegel and Bridget discuss Wonder's rapid expansion to six D.C. locations and its platform ambitions.
Wonder Is A Platform-First Food Hall
- Wonder blends a delivery platform with virtual food halls to offer many branded menus under one roof.
- The company aims to be the "Amazon of food," prioritizing convenience and variety over traditional restaurant craft.
Use Wonder For Convenience With Diverse Groups
- Use Wonder when groups need varied meals quickly, like tired tourists or large families with different preferences.
- Choose it for convenience rather than expecting artisanal or highly specialized cuisine.