Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia

For any one visiting Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market should certainly be on their itinerary. And for locals, regular visits should be on the list of to-do's. The historic market is definitely gastronomic bazaar, providing visitors with a plethora of fresh foods, dairy products, meats, fruits and vegetables as well as homemade crafts, gifts and clothing. The terminal really comes alive especially at the height of the lunch hour any day of the week.

There literally is something for everyone at this bustling terminal of activity, from fresh baked goods and candies, to just about every ethnic variety of foods. It's almost a multi-day excursion to fully appreciate the sheer variety of foods available at this special marketplace. You can, as I often do, shop for groceries of fresh meats, fish, cheeses and great produce from local farmers, and squeeze a meal in there too.

I especially love taking advantage of the fresh produce, and going through rows of overflowing fruits and vegetables. With a wide selection of potatoes and other root vegetables and greens, you better have your list in order when you get here or you'll be stuffing your basket with stuff you can't resist.

There are several vendors that specialize in fresh meats, and even just poultry. I love to stroll along the cases and see all the various cuts of meat. One shop specializes in sausages, and another with pork products, while another showcases turkey. It's fascinating just watching people shopping and looking. There are at least three vendors selling a wide selection of fresh sea food, one with a large section just for crab and lobster. I always eye ball the large sea scallops but have yet to make a actual purchase. While there is a wide selection of fresh quality seafood, don't expect bargin basement prices.

If you prefer your food prepared, there's everything from Chinese and Japanese to Mexican, Pizza, Mid Eastern, Greek, Deli's, Fried and BBQ chicken, Pennsylvania Dutch bakers, even Bassets ice cream to tickle your tonsils. One of my favorites is Hershel's East Side Deli, they specialize in extraordinarily delicious corned beef, pastrami and brisket of beef sandwiches. But I'll save a full story of this place for later, you'll see. If you really can't decide what you want to eat, there is also a buffet that offers a large fresh veggie section along with your all your favorite buffet dishes. You're going to want to get here early if you want to get a good place in the dinning area to sit and eat, this place goes crazy for noon on.

There's a candy store that you have to get a number to place you order it's that popular. They sell just about every kind of candy and truffle you can imagine. There are other shops catering to your confectionery sweet tooth, including cookies and other tempting baked goods of pies, tortes, cakes and breads.

There's a whole backside story and history to this place and it's significance to Philadelphia, but I won't go into here. Just be prepared nearly overwhelm your senses when you get here.

If you are lucky and depending on what time of day you visit, there may be metered street parking available. Other wise there are many parking lot close by. Located across the street from the Philadelphia Convention Center.

Reading Terminal Market
51 North 12th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-2954
(215) 922-2317

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