Smart real estate developers have a long, symbiotic relationship with chefs and restaurateurs, but food hasn’t always been a necessary amenity. In 2014, however, launching a new building, development or even neighborhood absolutely requires a splashy culinary component, complete with cool chefs, inventive design and creative food/drink concepts. Gone are the food courts and cafeterias of the past, and in their place are hip destinations like Smorgasburg, Eataly and Gotham West Market. The new World Trade Center in NYC will feature a French food hall and concept shop; nearby, another developer will unveil an Anthony Bourdain-led Asian hawker concept. What’s driving developers and urban planners to lead new projects with a food component?