Washington D.C.’s NoMa neighborhood is up-and-coming, but it’s already being hailed as a foodie paradise and a D.C. must-see. At the edge of the NoMa neighborhood, though, a new District hotspot is emerging: the Union Market neighborhood.
Union Market, distilled down to its essence, is a microcosm of Washington D.C. at large. Great food, legendary theatres, and big-city mainstays like boutique fitness studios all call the neighborhood home, but there’s so much more to do in this neighborhood as Union Market has so much going for it. So let’s hitch up the welcome wagon and embark on a brief tour of Union Market, shall we?
Where to eat
Extraordinary eats in Union Market are not hard to come by. The neighborhood’s namesake, for one, is a good place to start! From life-changing smoked salmon sandwiches at Neopol Savory Smokery to bread pudding from Southern comfort-slinging Puddin’, the Union Market dining hall is a treasure trove of neighborhood eats. If you’re looking for the neighborhood’s finest dining, however, nearby Masseria is your move. Whether celebrating or trying to impress out-of-towners, the Puglian pasta from Masseria is sure to please.
Where to drink
Running around Union Market can conjure up a wicked thirst, but fortunately the neighborhood’s watering holes scarcely run dry. Rappahannock Oyster Bar may derive its namesake from seafood, but its cocktails are equally tasty. Regulars swear by their bloody mary’s, but on warmer days the sparkling and sweet French 75 is hard to beat. For something caffeinated, the baristas at Sweet Science Coffee practically have a PhD in pour-overs. Their honey sesame cappuccino makes for a perfect pick-me-up, and tea fanatics will rejoice over their lengthy list of tea varieties.
Where to sweat
Boutique fitness is in no short supply in Union Market and neighboring NoMa. Whether you’re most comfortable with a kettlebell, ready to leave it all on the treadmill, or at home on a yoga mat, there’s bound to be a studio for you. While SoulCycle may be one of the most mainstream boutique fitness brands, they have achieved cult status for good reason. Soul’s Union Market outpost is the perfect place to disconnect from the pace of D.C. (and you can always treat yourself to some Puddin’ afterwards.) For something less uptempo and more downward facing dog, Yoga NoMa is the perfect place to find inner peace. New to yoga? Don’t worry; they have classes on the schedule for every skill level.
Where to kick back
If yoga wasn’t relaxing enough, maybe a stroll around the breathtaking Gallaudet University’s campus will ease your nerves. Established in 1864, the historic campus is primarily for deaf and hard-of-hearing students and is just a few blocks from our Union Market home.