There are so many reasons why a traveler should make Washington, DC a part of their must-go list. Its overall energy as a city and the reputation that it has made as an East Coast paradise are just one of many. Apart from the traditional attractions that one is expected to go to, there are a lot of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered in this city, and this list is about to tap into that. With the hustle and the bustle of DC, locals have found a way to make shopping and dining more fun and exciting through street food markets. Here are our picks for the best street food markets in Washington, DC, the USA.
1. Union Market
Head to Union Market for a wide variety of food selections. There are multiple food stands that offer food that’s best for sharing. Expect dishes like ramen, bulgogi, tacos, scrumptious seafood, and a lot more! Since the Union Market is famous among locals, expect big crowds during the afternoon, but don’t fret since they have free parking, and the food is always worth it—your taste buds will not regret it!
Union Market
Address: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Website: Union Market
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 8am - 8pm, Thu - Sat: 8am - 9pm
2. Eastern Market
Opening its gates to both locals and non-locals is Eastern Market. They’re proud to claim that they’re more than just a market— they’re also a community and a top cultural destination. The Eastern Market has five major divisions: The South Hall Market, Fresh Tuesdays Market, The Weekend Farmers, The Weekend Outdoor Market, and The North Hall Event Space. Each division has its distinct theme that will surely suit anyone’s needs— there’s just something for anyone! For your reference, weekdays are usually pop-ups of fresh produce and food shopping, while weekdays are filled with vibrance, art, and local flair.
Eastern Market
Address: 225 7th Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: Eastern Market
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 7am – 7pm, Sat: 7am – 6pm, Sun: 9am – 5pm (closed on Mon)
3. La Cosecha
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
La Cosecha calls itself a contemporary market that highlights the culture of Latin America. It combines food, art, heritage, and conversation that is geared towards their interesting culture. All of the stores that you will find here has a unique tie to Latin America. Enjoy a great mix of retail shops, restaurants, and niche food selections. You will also come to appreciate the space of the La Cosecha market since it’s cozy and modern, which is pleasing to the eyes.
La Cosecha
Address: 1280 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Website: La Cosecha
Opening hours: Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 12am, Sun: 11am - 6pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
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4. Chinese Street Market Pop-up
Fancy a hearty bowl of fried rice noodles? Or perhaps some dim sum? The Chinese Street Market Pop-up has got you covered! What we like best about the Chinese Street Market Pop-up is its mission to preserve the Chinese culture in Chinatown post gentrification. This is the best place to try some classic Chinese favorites like the maps tofu, dandy noodles, and a whole lot more! It’s always a good idea to satisfy your Chinese cuisine cravings here at the Chinese Street Market Pop-up.
Chinese Street Market Pop-up
Address: 700 Block F Street NW, Washington, D.C.
Website: Chinese Street Market Pop-up
Washington Tour Guide
Annie Leguennec
My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the city's rich heritage and its continuing legacy as the birthplace of the United States of America. Book my tour. Explore and learn about this unique city where you will walk on the footsteps of our America's founding Fathers. My tours are conducted in English, French and Italian.
Tours by Annie
Washington Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Georgetown French Market
Parisian food culture is just around the corner at Georgetown French Market! During the last weekend of April, this French market welcomes 7,500 visitors to their open market filled with Parisian delicacies, and it doesn’t just stop with food—out of the 35 locally owned pop-ups that you will see at the market, many of them also sell clothing, jewelry, art, home decors, and a whole lot more! While these shopping goodies are available, there is also live music happening and street performances. Going to Georgetown French Market is one of the best decisions you will make one April weekend. Be there!
Georgetown French Market
Address: Wisconsin Avenue, From O St to Reservoir Rd
Website: Georgetown French Market
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (Apr 24 - 26, 2020)
6. Around The World Culture Festival
Immerse yourself in cultures from all over the world at Around The World Culture Festival! Munch on a diverse set of food selections as you enjoy live performances of talents from different countries. Around The World Culture Festival also showcases ethnic artisans that have a booth set up in the festival. Show your support by buying their products! This event only happens once a year so don’t miss it!
Around The World Culture Festival
Address: Freedom Plaza, Downtown DC
Website: Around The World Culture Festival
Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (Aug 29, 2020)
Price: Free entry
7. Taste of DC
As early as 1989, the Taste of DC has been bringing together friends and families on weekends to gather for delicious meals and to make merry over drinks. Choose from over 60 restaurants and drink ’til you drop at the beer garden. There will be two stages of live music and culinary entertainment to keep you excited. One of the things we like best about the Taste of DC is its utmost support for local businesses through the initiatives made for this event. Show some love and drop by!
Taste of DC
Address: 00 Potomac Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: Taste of DC
8. National Capital BBQ Battle
Top chefs from around the country gather to celebrate the National Capital BBQ Battle. Teams cook-off to win the grand prize which is at around 4,000 USD. Attending this event will let you witness amazing cook-offs, cooking demonstrations, and displays that will surely keep you hungry. But don’t worry, because things get better when you go through the entertainment and activities at this event— there are multiple areas for children’s activities, food tasting, and more cooking demos.
National Capital BBQ Battle
Address: 700 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
Local lovin'
A lot of people from Washington DC have found a way to showcase local businesses better through its numerous street markets. Add a twist to your dining and shopping experience by heading to some of the markets that we have listed down here! Not only are you going to find some local gems but you are also giving a lot of support to these local business owners. In a time where capitalism and gentrification is at its peak, attending to these local market owners go a long, long way. See you at the streets!
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