Visiting the Reading Terminal Market can be an intimidating and exciting experience simultaneously. Where to go? What to eat? After all, the stomach only has so much room! I have good taste in food — impeccable, in fact. So, if you’re looking for a variety of unique foods follow my lead and visit the places below!
Spataro’s Cheesesteaks.
This was the first Philadelphia cheese steak that I’ve ever had — and so it will always hold a special place in my heart…and in the fat part of my stomach where it probably still rests. Look — I know nothing about what makes a great cheese steak and I won’t pretend to have that knowledge. But, I do know that this did NOT disappoint. Melted cheese whiz over meat..what’s to mess up? The pickles on top were unexpected, but a nice touch!
Sang Kee Peking Duck.
I’m a Long Island gal originally — therefore, it would be a sin not to order duck wherever I go. And the duck here, roasted with crispy skin and all does not disappoint. They’re cooked whole bird style and the meat is tender enough to bring tears to the eyes. If you’re at all opposed to duck, you’re a disappointment to be honest. But, more over, there’s plenty of other Chinese classic dishes from which to choose.
Pearl’s Oyster Bar.
Sometimes in a city as expansive as Philadelphia, it can be difficult to remember that it’s essentially a city on the water. It’s not difficult for me to remember, because I’m obsessed with the American Revolution and I know all about Philly being a strategic location in the war. I also remember that it’s a port city because I’m an elephant, and elephants never forget! NEVER!
But, in all seriousness — the only thing that rivals my love for Revolutionary history is oysters. I’m something of an oyster fiend actually. The grittiness of the shell hitting my lips, the briny water from the shell sliding onto my tongue, the plump, buttery, flesh of the oyster. DELISH. Check this place out for plump little oysters on the half shell, and clams too!
Miller’s Twist.
The best jumbo pretzels in the city! Take your pick from a variety of flavors like sour cream and garlic or cinnamon. Soft baked pretzel too plain even with a fun flavor? Opt for one of the ‘roll up’ some of which have meat and cheese. Of course, don’t forget to wash everything down with a decadent milkshake — there’s at least a dozen flavors (hellooooo chocolate marshmallow!)
Fox and Son Fancy Corndogs.
I SO LOVE THIS ONE! An entire booth dedicated to CARNIVAL food!? Sign me the hell up! I especially like the ‘old timey’ aesthetic of this little stand, with it’s big top inspired awning and rustic wooden signs. All of the items are gluten free and if you have dairy or egg allergies, you can order batter free of those ingredients as well.
Try regular corn dogs or a fancier one (like sweet potato battered.) The cheese curds are great and come in a variety as well (like ranch seasoned.) And NATURALLY it would be a sin not to try the Frito’s Pie. For desserts? Try one, two, or all three of their variations on funnel cake!
Famous 4th Street Cookie Company.
These are the best cookies in Philadelphia, and they’re right there in Reading Terminal Market. Who says they’re so great? Oh, only the Food Network, Rachel Ray, and Philadelphia Magazine. My favorites are the black and white, which are popular, but the chocolate chips seem to do just as well, if not better. Why not get both?
El Merkury.
The story behind this place is just as exceptional as the food. The owner is from Guatemala, and was tired and heartbroken by seeing the small countries of Central America negatively portrayed in the media. That’s when she decided to show people what was really up. Central American street food it the name of the game here. Stock up on pupusas, overindulge in elote, and feel no guilt about ordering churros for desert!
Dienner’s Bar-B-Q Chicken.
I’ll take roasted chicken for dinner any day of the week, especially from here. Choices include a whole roasted bird, wings, or a sandwich with allllll the fixings. Sides are pretty classic and include a dinner roll, carrots, corn, potatoes, or coleslaw.
Beck’s Cajun Cafe.
For a taste of the Big Easy in the northeast, definitely stop here. Considering Cajun and Creole eateries are few and far between outside of the south, you’ll have a hard time deciding what to get, so give yourself some time. Fried seafood, mac and cheese, a smattering of po boys, gumbos, red beans and rice, muffalettas, the menu is seriously dizzying. Try to stop yourself from ordering one of everything. I really appreciated the dessert options — bread pudding or king cake.
A Taste of Spain.
Missing the rich culinary traditions of Barcelona, but can’t hop on a flight? Drive to Philly instead. This place is the real deal where you can buy jamon Iberico, salmorejo, gazpacho, croquettes, a slice of tortilla, and more. Be prepared to take a siesta after a visit here.
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