Food halls in these East Coast cities will lead you on a delicious journey where global flavors convene in single palate-pleasing places
Food halls are unique for their wide selection of cultural styles and flavors from local and international cuisine. These aren’t to be confused with food courts which are comprised of fast-food chains. For group travel, food halls are the perfect spot to grab something to eat whether it’s quick-serve food or a sit-down meal. These seven food halls in epicurean East Coast cities are sure to fulfill your group’s desire for a unique culinary experience.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is located in a bustling promenade in one of the oldest East Coast cities. Bursting with more than 200,000 square feet of retail space, it’s a Boston must-visit. It also features both local and national shops.
The Faneuil food hall offers a wide array of cuisine offering more than 11 restaurants and pubs. The Salty Dog is a Faneuil original, providing the most authentic Boston seafood experience for patrons looking for a casual dining setting. Boston Chowda Co. is the place to be if you want to taste award-winning New England clam chowder with a side of savory lobster rolls.
Food halls boast international flare
This market is also home to New England’s largest and most historic food hall: Quincy Market Food Colonnade. Quincy Market has plenty of restaurants that incorporate cuisine from far beyond the Boston harbor, like Ned Devine’s Irish Pub and Steve’s Greek Cuisine.
Chelsea Market, New York City
Located in NYC’s Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market has its roots in the center of the city’s produce capital. It imports the finest meats, fish, cheeses, and dry goods from across the nation and around the world. As one of the most diverse East Coast cities, NYC is a hub for intriguing culinary traditions.
This bustling market and food hall are unique in the sense you can buy quality products from specialty vendors or choose to dine in at one of the many restaurants. There are a myriad to choose from that are distinctly New York, like Pearl River Mart, Dickinson’s Farmstand, and Creamline. But, the food offerings are as diverse as the people of NYC, offering French, Mexican, Korean, Jamaican, Italian, German, and Chinese cuisine.
High Street Place, Boston
Opening in March 2022, High Street Place Food Hall is a highly anticipated location built out of one of Boston’s most historic buildings. World-class designers were brought from around the world to re-imagine the space as one made to explore.
For groups looking to grab a drink, High Street will have multiple bars: Bubble Bath Champagne & Wine Bar, Daiquiris & Daisies, and Newburyport Brewing Co. Additionally, any cuisine you can think of is offered, from pizza at Tenderoni’s to tacos at North East of the Border to Jewish deli sandwiches at Mamaleh’s Delicatessen.
Gansevoort Liberty Market, New York City
Gansevoort Liberty Market is located in the modernly designed Oculus in the Westfield World Trade Center. Just as the location is ultra-modern, most restaurants located within the food hall take well-loved dishes and reimagine them with sleek presentations. For example, enjoy dishes like Los Panchos, K-Pop Haus, and Umai Fish.
There is also plenty of traditional comfort food offered from Sal Anthony’s, Momo, and Cebichelsea. Or, if you’re in a rush, Gansevoort has made it easy to order take-out from any of its restaurants. The group can combine it all into one order, eliminating the challenge of choosing a restaurant everyone will enjoy.
Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia
Since 1893, Reading Terminal Market has been providing the Philly area with the best local produce and confections. The food hall offers visitors everything they could need to create a memorable meal at home or on-site. Groups can have an amazing dining experience at one of the many restaurants under one roof.
East Coast cities with a culinary claim to fame
Many East Coast cities are famous for specific dishes. Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies & Cheesesteaks is the place to go if you want a taste of Philadelphia’s classic hot sandwich. Additionally, Fox & Son Fancy Corndogs and Careda’s Caribbean Cuisine are perfect for groups on the go looking for walkable meals. Afterwards, try dessert at Profi’s Creperie and Bassetts Ice Cream for the perfect stops to satisfy a sweet tooth.
Lexington Market, Baltimore
Lexington Market has undergone a huge structural transformation after more than 200 years of serving the Baltimore area. The North and South Market is an open concept, modern fashion, community space for the city with a walkable plaza. It’s a hub for farmers’ markets and other public gatherings for everyone from locals to those visiting.
Historic East Coast cities transport groups back in time in food halls
Vendors at Lexington Market range from restaurants, delis, bakeries, museums, and outlets, satisfying a group’s every need in one location. Try something new, like unique baked potatoes at Dancing Potato. Or stick to the classics at Hominy Kitchen and Park’s Fried Chicken for comfort classics. Many of these vendors take you back in time with their neon signs and classic East Coast vibes. Places like Krause’s Lite Fare, Perfect Gentlemen Barber Shop & Salon, and Kofman’s Shoe Repair have that ambiance.
The perfect mix of old and new Baltimore, Lexington Market is a must-visit on your group trip for taking in the culture of Charm City.
Union Market, Washington D.C.
Union Market has a culture of entrepreneurship and ingenuity, helping local businesses grow with a space where the community can flourish. This food hall has more than 200 years of serving the D.C. area under its belt. They hope to build on existing traditions while paving the way for the future of food markets across the world.
Food halls with Michelin Stars
The cuisine choices are just as innovative as the market’s mission. Last Call combines late-night dive bar dining with beautiful culinary presentation. Shouk is an award-winning modern Israeli street food vendor that is completely plant-based. Moreover, Michelin Star-winning Masseria transports guests to the Italian coast with its simple Italian farmstead cuisine.
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By Isabella Wilkes
