Top Must-Try Vendors at Reading Terminal Market

Top Must-Try Vendors at Reading Terminal Market

Since 1893, Reading Terminal Market has been a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike, earning its reputation as one of the best public markets in the nation.

Step inside, and you’ll find a rich mix of Philadelphia’s people, history, and flavors. With over 80 shops, restaurants, and grocers to explore, there’s something for everyone. Here are some must-try vendors you shouldn’t miss during your visit.

Breakfast and Coffee

With nearly 50 flavors of doughnuts to choose from, Beiler’s Doughnuts is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Beiler’s uses Pennsylvania Dutch recipes featuring creamy fillings made in nearby Lancaster, Pennsylvania. These doughnuts are among the most sought-after desserts in Philadelphia. The light, fluffy confections are rolled, fried, and decorated by hand daily. You can watch how the doughnuts are made while you wait for your turn to order.

With two stands inside of Reading Terminal Market, Old City Coffee is a must-visit for locally roasted coffee. 100% of the company’s Arabica coffees are roasted inside and the market. Bags of beans are available to purchase for those looking to bring some home.

Iconic Eateries

No Philadelphia visit is complete without trying a cheesesteak. By George Pizza, Pasta & Cheesesteaks has been serving up the iconic sandwich in Reading Terminal Market since 1991. Another option that is popular among locals is the roast pork sandwich. It traditionally features juicy cuts of pork, broccoli rabe, and sharp provolone on a freshly baked roll. Tommy DiNic’s serves one of the most mouthwatering roast pork sandwiches in the city.

Grab a seat at the counter of the Dutch Eating Place. Here you can enjoy a big breakfast complete with scrapple, a turkey dinner with the trimmings, or a plump apple dumpling served with a pitcher of heavy cream. The items on the menu are made in the traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fashion, meaning everything is made from scratch and with local ingredients.

Te soft pretzel is one of the most well-known snacks in Philadelphia. Pretzels are prepared to perfection at Miller’s Twist, which rolls, twists, and fries the dough by hand each day. Traditional twisted pretzels are available, for sure, but don’t miss their savory options.

Bassetts Ice Cream was the first merchant to sign a lease at Reading Terminal Market in 1892. It remains owned and operated by the original family to this day. Flavors vary from classic vanilla to matcha green tea. Their ice cream sandwiches are served on two freshly baked cookies from fellow vendor, Famous 4th Street Cookie Company.

Black-Owned Businesses

For one-of-a-kind gifts made by metal workers from around the world, head to Amazulu. These makers have been selling artistic creations at Reading Terminal Market since 1989. Their offerings include handmade jewelry, lamps, dolls, sculptures, and home décor.

Take your tastebuds on a trip to the Caribbean and savor authentic jerk chicken at Careda’s Caribbean Cuisine, serving up dishes packed with flavor seven days a week. From jerked chicken, pork and turkey, to oxtails and seafood, Careda’s brings all the Caribbean staples to one spot. Sauces and spices are also available for purchase.

Ma Lessie’s Chicken and Waffles serves the ultimate comfort foods: baked mac and cheese, collard greens, peach cobbler, and of course, chicken and waffles. Customers can ask for their chicken fried or baked. You can also choose from fruit-infused or specialty waffles to really shake things up.

Sweet T’s Bakery is the first Black-owned bakery in Reading Terminal Market’s history. They are known for their sweet potato treats. The bakery offers sweet potato pies, cakes, cheesecakes, and cupcakes, along with signature drinks. Customers have the option to order their sweet potato pie with a traditional butter crust or a graham cracker crust. Pair those sweet snacks with a cold glass of homemade iced tea or lemonade.

Vegan Options

LUHV Vegan Deli is the first fully vegan stand at Reading Terminal Market and the East Coast’s first vegan deli. This family-run business offers fresh vegan and gluten-free items, including traditional deli favorites and overstuffed sandwiches. LUHV also serves fresh, frozen, and microwavable meals designed to cater to various dietary needs, all while remaining 100% vegan and certified kosher.

Nanee’s Kitchen is a vibrant spot for gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and halal diners, serving traditional Indian-Pakistani dishes inspired by family recipes. Run by Sabina and Danish Ahmad, the menu features favorites like chana masala, okra masala, and coconut curried cauliflower, ensuring a taste of home with every bite.

Gifts and Souvenirs

The Pennsylvania General Store is a great place to pick up a gift, souvenir, or sweet treat. Known for its collection of Pennsylvania-made products, this vendor is where you can stock up on Tastykakes, chocolate covered pretzels, and other baked goods.

For honey enthusiasts and gift-seekers, Bee Natural offers an array of handmade honeys and beeswax products sourced from owner Darren Sausser’s own beehives in Smyrna, Delaware. Their stand features pure and specialty honeys, natural beeswax candles, skincare items, and unique gift baskets for any occasion. Occasionally, you can even view a single-frame hive with live bees!

At Herbiary, you can explore a wide selection of natural beauty and healthcare products, from soaps and incense to essential oils and tinctures. This haven of herbal remedies also offers books on foraging, gardening, and natural health. Friendly staff members are on hand to help you find the perfect product for your needs.

Looking for more things to do in Philadelphia? Check out our things to do page.