Plans for a new, two-story food hall called “The Forge” are officially in development. Strategically located at the intersection of Santa Fe Drive and the All American Freeway, this food hall will be a key component of a new mixed-use multifamily development, situated near the gates of Fort Liberty.

“The Forge, as the centerpiece of the amenities at Midtown at Coalition, is to signify the idea of creating a new path, developing new relationships by bringing people together over food, while also giving thanks to the men and women that serve in our community.  The name is a nod to the Soldiers and Veterans of Fort Liberty who have been ‘forged’ by the bellows of strict military discipline, so that they will be ready to answer the call to make sacrifices that must be made to preserve freedom. The forge is also a furnace that makes metal malleable so that it can be used to create something new,” shared developer of The Forge Jerry Truong when asked about the meaning behind the name for the new food hall. 

The ground floor of the 11,675 SF business will feature four vendor stalls, each designed to accommodate diverse food concepts, complemented by a common seating area and an inviting outdoor dining space. The second floor is envisioned as a lively brewery space, complete with a large vendor stall, expansive bar, and ample seating. The food hall is expected to open in Q2 2026. 

Grant-Murray Real Estate is handling the leasing of the food hall spaces and the retail spaces in the adjacent building. When asked what makes now the right time to bring something like this to Fayetteville, Principal and Broker-in-Charge Patrick Murray stated:

“The growth surrounding this business park in recent years to include all of the multifamily projects, the Amazon facility, the nearing completion of the entire I-295 loop to create greater connectivity throughout the county and more. The location of this project creates an easily accessible destination for the entire region, and most importantly it’s more than just four walls and a roof, this is creating an experience which will continue to draw customers to come back again and again.”

Murray shared that they’ve begun the process of accepting applications and working to curate the right mix of tenants for the space. Murray explained that the goal of the food hall is to bring something new to Fayetteville and he hopes to recruit local businesses as vendors.

“I want to have unique concepts and new to the market ideas. And I really want local entrepreneurs. I really want to have people in Fayetteville that maybe have a food truck or need some kind of a permanent home for their business. So really, trying to focus on that type of prospect,” shared Murray.

Interested vendors should email Patrick Murray at patrick@grantmurrayre.com with a proposed menu and background bio with their experience history.