Simon Smith, who runs Caribbean food stall Seacoles, said the hall’s architecture was “inspiring”.
He added: “I’m hoping for a very open atmosphere, getting young people in and business people in.”
“The place can be opened up to many possibilities.”
Mother and daughter Lisa and Grace Marks were among the early visitors to the food hall.
Lisa said: “I think they’ve done a good job of preserving the room.
“I’m pleasantly surprised by how busy it is for a Tuesday afternoon.”
Alison Clough-Halstead, who travelled from Rossendale especially to see the new food hall said: “I’d say it’s as good if not better [than other food halls in Greater Manchester].”
“We’re very impressed with the food – that’s one of the nicest egg-fried rice I’ve had.”
