Discovering Union Market DC: A Vibrant Culinary Journey Through Washington D.C.’s Artisan Scene
There’s nothing quite like the promise of a crisp Sunday morning, especially when it’s dedicated to exploring new corners of a beloved city. This past Sunday, my partner Connor and I embraced just such an opportunity, setting our alarms early and heading into the heart of Washington D.C. Our destination? The much-talked-about Union Market. It’s almost embarrassing to admit, but despite its thriving presence for nearly a year, this marked my very first visit. The anticipation had been building, fueled by countless recommendations and tantalizing glimpses, making this long-overdue trip even more exciting.
Union Market isn’t just another modern food hall; it’s a testament to D.C.’s rich history and evolving culinary landscape. The impressive building itself carries a legacy, having once served as a massive food venue back in the 1800s. True to its roots, and with a keen eye on contemporary tastes, it has been magnificently revitalized. Today, it stands as a bustling hub, proudly housing an eclectic variety of artisan food companies, independent eateries, and specialty vendors. This transformation represents a beautiful blend of past and present, offering a vibrant space where tradition meets innovation, and local producers can truly shine.
Morning Serenity and the Allure of Freshness
Our early start proved to be a brilliant decision. Upon our arrival, the market was still relatively quiet, offering a peaceful prelude to the lively buzz that would soon fill its halls. The calm allowed us to soak in the atmosphere, appreciate the architectural details, and plan our culinary adventure without the usual weekend crowds. Our first order of business, as any good morning dictates, was coffee. We made our way to Peregrine Espresso, a local favorite known for its expertly crafted beverages. Clutching our warm cups, we found a comfortable spot outside, basking in the pleasant weather and enjoying a moment of serene reflection before diving into the market’s depths.
As we sipped our coffee, my eyes were irresistibly drawn to a fresh flower stand nestled within the market. It was a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances, but one bloom, in particular, captured my attention: a breathtaking display of fresh peonies. There’s something undeniably captivating about their lush petals and delicate scent. However, I confess to having the most irrational “flower guilt” when it comes to purchasing them. Seriously, what is wrong with me? I adore fresh flowers, the way they instantly brighten a space and lift one’s spirits, yet I always hesitate at the point of purchase, questioning the ephemeral nature of their beauty versus the cost. It’s a silly internal debate, but one that inevitably crosses my mind whenever I encounter such floral splendor. Perhaps it’s a subconscious desire for their beauty to last forever, or simply a quirky habit I’ve yet to overcome.
A Nod to San Francisco and the Rise of Urban Culinary Hubs
While Union Market holds its own unique charm, I couldn’t help but draw a comparison to my absolute favorite food hall, the Ferry Building in San Francisco. That iconic landmark sets a high bar for its blend of historical architecture, diverse vendors, and stunning waterfront views. Union Market, while different in scale and setting, shares that same fundamental spirit: creating a dynamic, community-focused space centered around exceptional food. It’s incredibly encouraging to witness D.C.’s ongoing efforts to cultivate more venues like this within the city. These types of markets are more than just places to eat; they serve as vital community hubs, fostering local businesses, offering diverse culinary experiences, and providing a vibrant gathering spot for residents and visitors alike. They represent a significant investment in urban culture and local entrepreneurship, enriching the city’s fabric in myriad ways.
After our coffee break, Connor and I embarked on a leisurely stroll through the market, taking our time to explore the various vendors and absorb the buzzing atmosphere. Each stall presented a new temptation, from artisanal cheeses and freshly baked pastries to exotic spices and handcrafted chocolates. The sheer variety was impressive, showcasing the talent and passion of local producers. Eventually, our growling stomachs led us to a decision for breakfast: Buffalo & Bergen. This charming eatery, with its distinct New York deli vibe, immediately caught our attention. Their focused menu promised authentic flavors and unique offerings, making it an irresistible choice for our first meal at Union Market.
Breakfast Delights at Buffalo & Bergen
Buffalo & Bergen did not disappoint. Their menu, though concise, was packed with tempting options, each promising a taste of something special. The centerpiece, of course, was their homemade bagels, proudly made with genuine NYC water – a detail that any bagel aficionado knows makes all the difference in achieving that perfect chewy-on-the-inside, crispy-on-the-outside texture. Beyond bagels, they offered traditional knish, a savory baked pastry typically filled with potatoes, and classic egg cream sodas, a nostalgic New York treat that surprisingly contains neither egg nor cream. For those seeking something a bit different, they also featured an array of syrup sodas and craft beers, ensuring there was a perfect pairing for every palate. As I looked around, I couldn’t help but notice the stylish decor, particularly the pendant lights hanging above. (P.S. I am totally obsessed with those pendant lights; they added such a cool, urban industrial touch to the space!) They truly contributed to the inviting and authentic ambiance of Buffalo & Bergen.
My order decision was almost agonizingly difficult. I came *this* close to indulging in a homemade French toast bagel, a truly decadent creation complete with a dusting of powdered sugar and served warm with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. The thought of it was incredibly tempting, a sweet and savory delight. However, in the end, the fiery call of the jalapeño bagels won me over. My adventurous side prevailed, promising a delightful kick to start the day. The French toast bagel, however, is now firmly at the top of my list for “next time!” It’s a compelling reason to plan a return visit soon, ensuring I get to experience that sweet culinary fantasy.
Connor, ever a man of classic tastes, opted for a delicious everything bagel, loaded with perfectly scrambled egg, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. It was a quintessential breakfast sandwich, hearty and satisfying. Of course, no shared meal is complete without a bit of friendly sampling, and I definitely managed to steal a few bites here and there. His bagel sandwich was everything you’d want in a breakfast comfort food, complementing my spicier choice perfectly. Sharing these culinary moments added an extra layer of enjoyment to our Union Market experience, making the simple act of eating a delightful shared adventure.
A Missed Treasure and Future Explorations
One of the few disappointments of our visit was missing out on a particular store within the market called Salt & Sundry. I had initially read about this intriguing boutique in Food & Wine magazine not long ago, and it had been high on my list of places to check out. Alas, on this particular Sunday, it wasn’t scheduled to open until later that morning, after we had already planned to depart. Salt & Sundry is essentially a curated food boutique, a treasure trove full of vintage finds, unique tableware, artisanal pantry items, and other exquisitely selected food-related gifts. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, browsing through charming, one-of-a-kind items that elevate the everyday culinary experience. I’m quite certain a visit would have been very dangerous for my wallet, filled with irresistible temptations that cater to my love for both food and beautiful home goods. This missed opportunity, however, only fuels my desire to return to Union Market sooner rather than later, with Salt & Sundry marked as a must-visit destination.
My first experience at Union Market truly underscored how fortunate we are that D.C. is continuously fostering and creating more and more dynamic spaces like this. These markets are instrumental in supporting small food establishments, independent restaurants, and local artisans, providing them with a platform to showcase their craft and connect directly with the community. They infuse the city with a vibrant energy, offering diverse culinary experiences that cater to every taste and preference. It’s a testament to the city’s burgeoning food scene and its commitment to local businesses. Until next time, Union Market – I’ll be back, perhaps for that French toast bagel and a proper browse through Salt & Sundry!