11. 01. 2012

True Grit at Union Market

I recently headed out to Union Market DC where I found a charming assortment of food shops, farmers and a few local eateries. You can shimmy up to the bar at the Rappahannock Oyster Co. for shellfish and a cocktail created by J.P. Fetherston of The Columbia Room, grab a new dill pickle to rival Russ & Daughters at the Oh Pickles! counter, pick up a flaky and perfectly crusted DC Empanada to go, and sip a beautifully swirled latte from Peregrine Espresso, all in a few strides. While the market aims to lead the artisanal DC foodie brigade, what’s really interesting is the neighborhood. Industrial and rough around the edges (unlike the meatpacking district of NYC), this neighborhood’s still got grit, great signage and a genuine local flavor. The market is pretty polished and chock full of hipsters but because it is still finding itself, it feels authentic and is certainly flavorful. I’m interested to see how it develops- good on ya, DC.