Union Market District

★★★★★ Walking into Union Market feels like stumbling into a cathedral built for the reckless pursuit of flavor. The place hums with energy—rows of food stalls firing off aromas like signal flares, daring you to try everything at once. Variety everywhere you look. The kind of place where your stomach and your better judgment immediately start arguing. We locked in on barbecue and never looked back. A pulled pork sandwich stacked high and dripping with the kind of smoky honesty that makes you pause mid-bite. Ribs that surrendered off the bone like they’d accepted their fate long before we arrived. Mac & cheese rich enough to qualify as a controlled substance, cornbread that tasted like it came straight from a Southern grandmother’s kitchen, and cold lemonades that hit like salvation. Yes, it’s a little pricier than the usual roadside grub I’m used to chasing across America—but the taste makes the argument irrelevant. Every bite earned its keep. A+ all around. If you’re in DC and hungry, step into the madness at Union Market and let the food win.

— buyushay

Unlike most mercatos I’ve been to (e.g. Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, Atlanta, Buenos Aires) where there’s a bit of a touristy-trapy pricing, this one is great as the prices are reasonable, the food choices are world-class, the taste I would categorize as comfort food. We got meat lovers pizza (Slice & Pie), pork belly bao (Bun’dUp), spam musubi (Small Kine— this one was a bit of a miss as too much rice for the amount of luncheon meat that’s lacking in flavor), fish & chips (FishWife— another miss as the fish lacked the right seasoning to counter the fishiness), shrimp basket and brown butter bourbon bread puddin’— best of everything we ordered and both are must-order).

— Bill Yu

DC has an incredible variety of restaurants for every taste and foodie level, but when I don’t want to overthink where to eat, I always head to Union Market. It’s the perfect place to walk in and choose whatever you’re craving in the moment — Mexican, American, Asian, seafood, BBQ — you name it, they have it. Last time, I went for brisket at 2Fifty’s, and it was amazing. Their combos are perfect if you're in the mood for slow-cooked meat, and the portions are generous enough to share. I also love that this place has a spacious outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your food in the fresh air — such a great vibe. Beyond the food options, you can also find market essentials like fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, coffee, flowers, and several specialty shops. It’s a place where you can eat, explore, and shop all in one stop. Always a reliable, vibrant, and delicious experience. If you liked my photos, follow me on Instagram @framinizingdiary.

— Framinizing Diary

Union Market is a lovely spot for meeting friends, enjoying good food and drinks, and spending time together. It is small, but very friendly and cute. With the Christmas decorations up, it felt cozy and festive. Well, the only downside is the ventilation system. In the winter, when the doors are closed, the smell of food stays inside, which can be unpleasant. Aside from that, it was a really nice night and a great place to hang out.

— Galawej HB

Union Market is a vibrant destination packed with diverse food vendors serving everything from casual meals to unique drinks and delicious desserts, all at reasonable prices. The fun extends beyond the market, especially with events like this weekend's "Race the District" go-karting in the parking lot. With its many surrounding wholesale stores, the whole area is full of interesting things to explore.

— Rachel Barker