Copied to Clipboard
Reading Terminal Market, one of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets, first opened in 1893. Today, it stands out as one of the greatest public markets in the country.
Visitors can enjoy eating a wide swath of different cuisines, from sublime soul food and exquisite Asian and Middle Eastern dishes to authentic Philly cheesesteaks and traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare — all available from largely locally owned family-run stands.
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia
In all, Reading Terminal Market boasts more than 80 diverse merchants, two of which are descendants of original stand holders from when it first opened more than 125 years ago.
Sit-down eateries are scattered throughout the expansive, lively space, and cooks from the finest local restaurants come to the market each morning for the very freshest and hardest-to-find ingredients and produce.
Be sure to allot plenty of time to stroll through the vast bazaar and browse everything from handmade imported crafts and American quilts to fresh produce, dairy products, exotic meats and seafood, freshly cut flowers, cookbooks, and expertly prepared foods — including cannolis, soft pretzels, vegan sandwiches, sushi and more.
The northwestern corner of the market primarily houses Amish merchants from Lancaster County who bring their farm-fresh products and distinctive prepared dishes to the market four days a week. Watch as bakers twist and bake soft pretzels at Miller’s Twist, then try one warm from the oven.
Be sure to stop by DiNic’s Roast Pork, which serves up the Travel Channel’s “Best Sandwich in America.” The fourth-generation shop builds its sandwich with thinly sliced juicy roast pork, lining the long roll with sharp provolone and topping it with bright green chopped broccoli rabe. The spot’s popularity can mean long lines, but it’s worth the wait.
Check out our guide for more of the best things to eat at Reading Terminal Market.
It’s Philly’s biggest year yet!
Make the most of it by booking the Visit Philly Overnight Package, which comes with free hotel parking and complimentary tickets to some of the most popular attractions in each of Greater Philadelphia’s five counties including Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute, the Mercer Museum in Bucks County, Longwood Gardens in Chester County, the Brandywine Museum of Art in Delaware County and Elmwood Park Zoo in Montgomery County.