Union Market DC is a foodie's paradise, offering an array of culinary delights. Here are some of the top eateries that you must visit when exploring this bustling food hall and restaurant and shopping district.
Buffalo & Bergen
To be honest, I always end up here because I have kids and bagels are an easy and familiar sell. Plus one kid remembers that he got a root beer float here once and has never let me forget that questionable parenting decision. If you're craving a classic Jewish deli sandwich or a refreshing cocktail then sidle up to the bar, or "lunch counter" as I prefer to call it since I sit my children there. This retro-inspired eatery offers a mouthwatering selection of sandwiches, bagels, and craft cocktails that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
TaKorean
When I eat out I like to order something I can't make at home. And I feel like I could never have all the amazing flavors on hand like TaKorean. For a unique fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors, TaKorean is the place to be. Their mouthwatering tacos, rice bowls, and kimchi slaw are a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will leave you craving more. This place is for you if you like cilantro.
Whether you're in the mood for international cuisine, comfort food, or gourmet treats, Union Market DC has something for everyone. Explore these top eateries and even more culinary delights right in the heart of the nation's capital. Get back to me about what you like or what you think should have been on this list!
Mosaico by Arepa Zone
After you've explored Union Market's bustling food hall, head over to LaCosecha, the Latin food hall that is part of the greater Union Market district. Mosaico by Arepa Zone serves up delicious Venezuelan arepas. This is a perfect stop for us Fridays in Lent. I first ate arepas on a trip to El Salvador in the early 2000s. They were hot, fresh and delicious. I've never forgotten them. Arepas are a traditional cornmeal patty stuffed with a variety of savory fillings.Their arepas contain no wheat flour and are bursting with flavor, making them a popular choice amongst the gluten-free and gluten-eater alike.
Maman
Along the same street is celebrated French coffee shop and bakery, Maman. I love everything about Maman: the coffee, the lattes, the food, the treat-filled bakery counter, and the vibe inside that is eternal spring in the south of France. When you step inside this location you notice a flowery blue toile wallpaper, a towering pergola filled with faux wisteria, and random bunnies scattered about. How can one NOT be happy here? When our interior designer first introduced me to Maman by bringing some treats to our house I kept the paper the cookies came in on my mood board for months. It's that pretty. When I have sick kids, I like to stop here on my way home from dropping the others at school and bring some amazing treat like a gingerbread croissant cube to the ailing child. If not healing the body, these treats offer something to the soul...and Mommy gets an inspirational mini-break and a really good coffee. Maman is located outside the Union Market food hall and is a stand-alone coffee shop in the Union Market District.
El Cielo
Also within the Union Market district and nestled between Latin food hall LaCosecha and Maman is El Cielo. My husband recently took me to El Cielo for my birthday. This is absolutely a special occasion place and SPECIAL is what it is. I have been to a lot of restaurants at this point in my life and not one has blown my mind each and every course like El Cielo. The staff is warm and welcoming, taking time to explain each course and weave a beautiful story about the ingredients and dishes of chef Juan Manuel Barrientos' native Colombia. We went on an especially cold night in February and from the warm Aguardiente and Passion Fruit Toddy that greeted us upon arrival to the truffle buñuelo and the bison "al trapo," this was the kind of experience one would expect at a Michelin starred restaurant. Each dish has unexpected elements of surprise, beauty, and artistry; however, the highly skilled cooking, delicious flavors, exciting ingredients (unknown to Americans) match the level of showmanship on display. For a truly special dining experience in our nation's capital, book your reservation at El Cielo.
You will be sure to find a hip and hopping culinary scene at Union Market and the greater Union Market District. What's your favorite place to eat at Union Market? Feel free to tell me what I am missing in the comments!
XOXO,
Anne