Eastern Market, over on 7th Street SE, is one of the oldest historic buildings in D.C. The market itself has been in continuous operation since 1873, despite a critically damaging fire in 2007. So, time to show some reverence and stop by for a snack.
First, Coffee:
If you’re coming from the north, stop by 7th Street Hill Cafe before heading into the market. Their iced coffee is simple but hits the spot, and if you want something fancier, try their much-loved taro latte. On the southern end of the market, hit up Radici Market for a cappuccino and leek parmesan pastry.
Food Vendors To Try:
My personal favorite is Paik Produce inside Eastern Market’s South Hall. Their pork skewers are *chef’s kiss,* plus they’ve got lots of hard-to-find ingredients (since D.C. is an H Mart desert 😭) like house-made kimchi, seaweed salad, and pre-marinated beef bulgogi. Eastern Market Grocery is your spot for fresh ravioli, and don’t sleep on a sandwich or meat cuts from Canales Deli.
What To Do After:
Capitol Hill Books is around the corner, with its musty, packed shelves and snarky staff recommendations. Also wonderfully musty? Woven History and Silk Road, a rug and antiques shop that transports you far east. They work with Tibetan refugees in Nepal and Afghan refugees in Pakistan who dye and weave the products. And Paris Bleu is a cute gift shop to get trinkets, scarves, and jewelry.
Did I miss something? What are your favorite Eastern Market spots?
