John Ng and Lina Goh of Zen Box Izakaya restaurant had the initial idea for a food hall with some long-time regulars who wanted to collaborate. Soon, it will become a reality. Ng and Goh will be operating Ramen Shoten and Sushi Dori in Eat Street Crossing and have welcomed in many other local buzz-worthy names to the mix.

“We are so excited to be this close to opening day,” said Ng. “It’s been a long time coming, and we’ve been so encouraged by community interest in the project."

Bebe Zito’s Ben Spangler and Gabriella Grant-Spangler will bring Bebe Zito ice cream, burgers, and fried chicken. They are also opening a new concept, Ouro Pizzaria, serving Brazilian-style pizzas.

“I’m really grateful to have this opportunity to share the spirit and flavors of my Brazilian heritage through some delicious food,” Grant-Spangler said.

Popular Taiwanese boba shop Chatime will have its ninth Twin Cities location at Eat street Crossing. It will also offer various hot tea options and Dogwood coffee.  The food hall will also have hot tea, Dogwood coffee,  a rotating cocktail menu, and non-alcoholic cocktails.

Eat Street Crossing is in the building that originally housed the Twin City Scenic Company. Operating from 1895-1979, this nationally-known scenic studio created theatrical products for vaudeville, theater productions, opera houses, and civic events.

Original elements of the building’s brick, wood, and stone are still visible, while new murals line the walls. “ “The Sewing Room” is a private event space named because of its original use was a workspace where crews of seamstresses worked on the large-scale backdrops.

“One of the goals in purchasing the Old Arizona Building was to preserve its architecture and the rich history of the building and to eventually create a special welcoming space for the community to come together,” Eat Street Crossing property owner Christina Le said.

There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 4 at 11 a.m. Mayor Jacob Frey and Ward 10 Councilmember Aisha Chughtai will be in attendance. Eat Street Crossing is located at 2819 Nicollet Ave.