Philadelphia is famous for many things—history, cheesesteaks, Rocky’s iconic run up the art museum steps—but if you really want to get to the heart of the city, head straight to Reading Terminal Market. Tucked right in the middle of downtown (AKA across the street from the convention center and tournament so a great spot to go when you have that two hour break in the game schedule), this indoor food paradise has been serving hungry locals and curious travelers since 1893. Translation: it’s older than dirt but still SUCH a cool place to stop.
Walking into Reading Terminal Market is synonymous with sensory overload…suck it up, Buttercup and step inside those doors. The experience is a must! The neon signs glow, the smell of sizzling meats mixes with the sweetness of fresh donuts. It’s busy, chaotic, and wonderful.
One of the best parts about Reading Terminal Market is how it blends Philly’s old-school grit with modern foodie culture. You’ll see longtime vendors who’ve been there for generations alongside trendy coffee spots and global cuisine. Amish farmers sell fresh produce just a few stalls away from spice shops, seafood counters, and rows of international eats. It feels like a cross-section of Philadelphia itself: diverse, lively, and never boring.
What to Eat (Spoiler: Everything)
The hardest part about this market isn’t finding something to eat, it’s narrowing down your options. No joke, my first time I was so overwhelmed I played it safe and went to a Chinese option. I could have been so much more adventurous….but I didn’t regret it. In fact, the next year I went back to that same Chinese stand because IT. WAS.JUST.THAT.GOOD!
Common spots people rant over:
- Beiler’s Donuts – Its the amish style donut that gets all the hype. Our team didn’t fall in love, but you have to try them!
- DiNic’s Roast Pork – This legendary sandwich was once crowned “Best Sandwich in America.” It’s dripping with juicy pork, broccoli rabe, and sharp provolone—Philly’s answer to the cheesesteak war. I think the important thing on this one is to get all the things. If you are pickier and go plain…the sandwich is just that – PLAIN. And you’ll be disappointed. Let them do it their way and trust, just trust.
- Miller’s Twist – If you’ve never had a soft pretzel fresh from the oven, twisted by hand right in front of you, now’s the time. Pair it with mustard and thank me later.
- The Pennsylvania General Store – Stock up on whoopie pies, Pennsylvania Dutch candy, and other local goodies to bring home (or eat immediately on the train).
My favorite finds:
- Sweet Nina’s Banana Pudding – I went back for a banana pudding for ALL THREE DAYS of the qualifier…and then again the next year. It’s just so good and while they have your normal ol’ plain jane banan pudding they also have osme with chocolate and peanut butter (enough said, right?), fruit and so much yumminess you can’t even wrap your head around it. But whats better than the banana pudding? The family that runs this stand has ALL THE CHARM. They are personable and friendly and something tells me they have some southern roots just like the dessert they masterfully serve up! Because Southern Charm describes them perfectly.
- The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company – Just wait in the line, it’s totally worth it.
Tips for Visiting
- Go early or late. Lunchtime is jam packed…and on a qualifier weekend, you can imagine it is even busier..
- Bring cash. Not every vendor takes cards.
- Come hungry. The hardest part is that you want to try all the things but all the servings are massive so it’s hard to try all the things AND get your money’s worth. Try going with friends so you can get different things and family-style the taste testing.
- Seating. May the odds be ever in your favor. Seating is hard to come by, especially in the busiest times of day. Imagine parking lots and Christmas time type of stalking for people getting close to the end of their meal so you can swoop in, throw some elbows and get your seats. Okay no elbows, but you get my point. In addition to the tables through the middle, head to the very back as there may be some tables hiding available back there. Also, on our latest trip, we found a seating area off to the far left side of the building that seemed to be a little less frequented.