Ultimate Guide to Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia

1. Overview

The Reading Terminal Market is a culinary gem located in the heart of Philadelphia. Celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2018, this bustling market attracts locals and visitors alike with a wealth of fresh produce, baked goods, and gourmet foods.

2. History and Background

Opened in the early 1890s, this legendary market quickly became a beloved destination among city residents. Located in a historical landmark building, it is recognized as one of the country’s largest and oldest public markets. The market was established at its current location when the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad Company consolidated its four separate terminals into one large location in the downtown area. Over the years, the market has expanded and improved, featuring a growing variety of high-quality food offerings. Even after overcoming bankruptcy, it adopted modern advancements like refrigeration and food safety procedures. Today, with the Philadelphia Convention Center nearby, the market sees a continual influx of new visitors attending various events.

3. Notable Market Vendors

The Reading Terminal Market boasts over 100 vendors serving up everything you might crave. Offerings include authentic Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods, locally-sourced produce from New Jersey farms, artisanal cheeses, organic honey, and other made-from-scratch regional delights. In addition to edible items, visitors can also purchase flowers, cookbooks, and home goods.

Here are some standout vendors worth visiting:

• DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef: Famous for its slow-roasted beef and pork specialties, garnering the title of “America’s Best Sandwich” from the Travel Channel.
• Dutch Eating Place: A cozy diner with a robust menu featuring Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food, including shoo-fly pie and apple dumplings.
• Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies and Cheesesteaks: Offers overstuffed sandwiches with popular cheesesteaks among their specialties.
• Godshall’s Poultry: Specializes in free-range, organic poultry since the early 1900s, also offering eggs and other fresh food items.
• Golden Fish Market: Known for freshly-caught seafood, including sushi-grade fish and local shellfish.
• Kennett Square Specialties: Offers a vast assortment of exotic mushrooms from the mushroom capital of the world.
• Termini Brothers Bakery: A beloved bakery known for classic Italian desserts, including cannoli and tiramisu.
• Pennsylvania Pour Collective: A group of local distilleries and spirit producers offering unique small-batch beverages.

4. What to Expect

Visiting the market during lunchtime means being prepared for crowds and occasionally lengthy lines. You’ll find mix of locals on their lunch breaks and tourists capturing vibrant displays of produce and baked goods. However, during late mornings or afternoons, the market is less congested, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxed experience.

5. How to Visit

The Reading Terminal Market is located at 51 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is advisable to check for holiday closures and note that all Pennsylvania Dutch vendors are closed every Sunday. Parking is available, though public transportation is recommended due to heavy traffic, especially during rush hours.

6. Tour the Market

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the market’s fascinating history, consider joining the official “Taste of Philly” food tours, which occur every Wednesday and Saturday at 10 a.m. The tours last over an hour and begin at the welcome desk near the 12th and Filbert Street entrance. Reservations are required in advance.