D.C. is obsessed with food halls (for better or worse) and Union Market is probably the most iconic. But with so many great restaurants popping up right next door — from James Beard Award-winning Chai Pani to Palestinian cafe Yellow — is the market itself even worth going to?!
These are the best stalls at Union Market that the City Cast DC team keeps going back to.
Kaela, Hey DC Editor — Wait, That’s Me!
Favorite: Weirdly, the best fried chicken I’ve had this year comes from Cowbell Seafood & Oyster in Union Market. Specifically, their homemade Virginia gold BBQ sauce made with coffee that comes with it. But their oysters are good too, of course.
Runner-up: I also want to shout out Harvey’s by Soko, the butcher in the back of the market where I go for any hard-to-find cuts of meat. They are so nice, and are always happy to cut something special. They also have some insanely meaty sandwiches.
AboveGround stall at Union Market. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Annie, City Cast DC Executive Producer
Favorite Spot: For me, Bun'd Up’s bao buns have the perfect contrast between the pillowy bun and a tangy filling. You can find me at Bun'd Up in Union Market getting a Bao 3-pack most times I'm there: Probably the fried chicken, spicy eggplant, and the spicy shrimp.
Runner Up: Growing up with a British mom taught me the beauty of a sausage roll, and AboveGround's is good! I've also been known to treat myself to some delicious imported Cadbury chocolate (Flakes and Fruit & Nut forever) from their shop, even if I hate the markup.
Julia, City Cast DC Senior Producer
Favorite: Go to District Cutlery to sharpen your knives! Trust me they need it. They’ll sharpen any blade for $13, and walk-ins are welcome. Also, don’t miss out on the cool Japanese steel they’ve got if you’re looking for an upgrade.
Runner-up: Buffalo and Bergen is always packed, but the bagel sandwiches are worth the wait. I usually go classic and get their pastrami on rye or a breakfast sandwich along with a cup of coffee, which they source from Ceremony Roasters. Don’t skip it!
Peregrine Espresso. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Ashe, City Cast DC Production Assistant
Favorite: No meal at Union Market is complete for me without a coffee from Peregrine Espresso. Amazing, slightly acidic flavor, amazing people, and locally roasted beans!
Runner-up: Tragically underhyped in my opinion, Union Market stalwart Neopol serves the kind of hearty, healthy lunch foods I would love to make at home but don’t. The tossed salmon apple salad goes crazy.
