Variety is the real hallmark here—not merely in culinary terms, but also in design: the food court Le Big TamTam in Hamburg's Hanseviertel is making gastronomic history. Designer Werner Aisslinger has devised a rather splendid, extravagant interior concept to transform the dining experience.

The striking building from the 1980s with its remarkable glass dome lay dormant for more than 15 years on a site in the very heart of Hamburg's distinguished Hanseatic district. The building’s original architects were Gerkan, Marg & Partner and the journey to a new usage has not been straightforward, notably because Hamburg's first shopping centre An den Großen Bleichen enjoys Listed status. Nevertheless, the design team finally succeeded in breathing new life into this architectural treasure.

Surfaces, colours and shapes captivate the eye, transforming 'dining out' into a theatrical delight.

Since summer 2024, the grand glass rotunda housing the Le Big TamTam food market has been given a splendid new lease of life with a vibrantly colourful interior by designer Werner Aisslinger. The welcoming design concept unites five gastronomic areas, each operated by celebrated Hamburg restaurateurs and offering diverse culinary delights, alongside a bar and stage for events. All of this is set within a vibrant, colourful ambience. Studio Aisslinger devoted a full four years to perfecting the numerous details designed to stimulate the appetite. The design team selected colours that are both harmonious and on-trend, determining the appropriate silhouettes and dimensions, and striking the perfect balance throughout this remarkable interior.

Diverse dining settings in radially arranged seating areas ensure diners are enthralled.

The entire interior: the very essence and character of Le Big TamTam Food Court, was crafted through close collaboration with Hamburg-based Tellerrand Consulting. The result is a remarkable culinary destination that offers everything from the 'smallest bar in Hamburg' to a central 'farming tower' and the theatrically designed kitchens. Within these spaces the best of the city’s culinary scene prepare their dishes beneath a brilliantly illuminated ceiling.

Werner Aisslinger has taken a truly maximalist approach to the interior.

With its focus on experience, Le Big TamTam represents a milestone in the evolution of metropolitan food markets, a concept that has proved popular across European cities for some time now. The concept brings the flair of home-prepared cuisine, crafted by local chefs and brings some culinary charm back to city centres which can often be dominated by chain restaurants. With its distinctive interior, Le Big TamTam goes beyond the typical collection of food stalls on a market square. Instead, this is a meticulously curated design that emphasises a sensory experience in every detail, combined with design elements that tell the story of restaurateurs from Hamburg. This concept not only defines the culinary excellence on offer, but also creates a genuinely authentic atmosphere.

Everyone enjoys their grand entrance here with a 'show staircase' and an exclusive view from the central 'lighthouse' surrounded by greenery.

This special atmosphere permeates the communal seating areas of the space, which is divided into radiant, colourful segments beneath the central glass dome. Here, one ascends a narrow, steep ‘show staircase' that simply commands the room. Visitors pass opulent rings of foliage and move towards a small copper capsule, reminiscent of a lighthouse keeper's cottage. Upon reaching the top, the capsule reveals itself as a cosy nook with a circular bench and table. From this vantage point diners can enjoy the finest view of the nearby market and its vibrant activity. Hamburg's smallest bar is also part of the ‘experience’-orientated storytelling here too.

Vibrant lollipop colours evoke cherished childhood memories.

Studio Aisslinger has worked on a number of hospitality projects, food markets and public spaces and so was perfectly placed to take on this project and create these experience-oriented environments. Visitors engage not just through the design, but also through subtle, delightful, unexpected interventions, materials and colour combinations. These are intended to be reminiscent of childhood or travel and appear fascinating or emerge unexpectedly. The different areas within the space transport guests from their 'digital bubble' into a refreshingly analogue, authentic and spontaneous world that brings genuine pleasure to explore.

Spacious, cosy seating nooks offer ample room for savouring culinary specialities from Hamburg's finest eateries all in one place.

Finally, it would be remiss not to mention the culinary delicacies on offer: At Le Big TamTam, the food spectrum ranges from modern interpretations of fish sandwiches at 'Underdocks', ramen bowls at 'Momo Ramen', Neapolitan pizzas and craft beer from 'Überquell', culinary wonders from Mexico at Miguélez and vegetarian, vegan dishes and chicken at Yeah Boy. An open bakery and the central circular 'Fünf Viertel' bar welcome their patrons beneath the magnificent dome. The overall result is a perfect marriage of visual and gastronomic pleasure.

The question is, with all these culinary possibilities, where to start?

© All pictures: Martin Kunze Hamburg

Originally written by Barbara Jahn, translated and slightly adapted by Helen Parton