Eastern Market in Washington, DC

The brick building in the background of this photo is the historic Eastern Market built in 1873. Sadly, the building was gutted by a fire back in 2007 and the rebuilding process has been slow. Until then, it had been in continuous operation as a market since it opened 134 years earlier.

You can still buy food at the market. They erected a temporary tentlike building to house the meat, fish, pastry, and produce vendors that used to be in the main building. Market lunch (reviewed a few posts ago) is also located inside.

It's dreamland for foodies. The fish selection is incredible. There are three different meat vendors, one of whom has an incredible array of handmade sausages. We had a lamb sausage that was absolutely perfect. If you are looking to stock up for a gourmet meal, this is the place.

Outside, on the weekends, is an art market and a flea market. Lots of local painters, jewelry makers, and other artisans display their goods. There is a rug dealer and a few furniture sellers. There is a woman who makes retro crotchet hats and someone who makes statues out of old soda cans. They pretty much cover all the bases.

If food is your thing, Eastern Market is a must-do DC stop.

Eastern Market, 7th Street & North Carolina Avenue, SE, Washington, DC