Baltimore has the oldest continuously operating public market system in the USA, and that experience has taught them how to A-list the market scene.

The secret? Don’t have one market when you can have several, each with its own specialisation whilst offering a one-stop-shop for convenience. When you visit Baltimore’s markets you can expect farm-fresh produce, local treats and foods from around the world. Oh, and not forgetting providing food-on-the-go too! Long before cafeteria-style food markets became a hot culinary trend nationwide, Baltimore’s historic public markets were serving up seafood and sandwiches. If you are hitting the city, make sure you take time to visit at least one to absorb the bustling atmosphere and tantalising smells. Here are some of our favourites to whet your appetite.

Lexington Market
The oldest continually running market in America. Visitors and locals return for favourites that have been operating for decades like Faidley’s Seafood and Connie’s Chicken and Waffles. There’s also an urban plaza of green space, and a performance venue.

Mount Vernon Marketplace
Located around the corner from The Walters Art Museum and the Maryland Center for History and Culture, Mount Vernon Marketplace has dishes for every diner. Try local specialties from vendors like Pinch Dumplings, The Local Oyster, and Mr. Nice Pie, or grab a drink from Taps Fill Station, which features everything from local craft beer to kombucha.

Broadway Market
Another of the oldest markets in Baltimore, Broadway Market was established in 1786 in the historic Fell’s Point district. The modern incarnation blends old-world vendors like Sophie’s Place European Deli and Sal’s Seafood with new culinary concepts like the Korean all-day bar Fat Tiger, Noona’s, and Sugarvale—and local favourites like Taharka Bros ice cream.

R.House
Located near Johns Hopkins University and the Baltimore Museum of Art, R. House sits in a former car showroom in Remington. Featuring nearly a dozen casual, chef-driven concepts and a huge dining space, the food hall is both edgy yet casually friendly. Stalls offer everything from tacos to Hawaiian poke to vegan smoothies. There’s also a central bar serving local craft beer and artisanal seasonal cocktails.

Avenue Market
Located along historic Pennsylvania Avenue, Baltimore’s official Black Arts and Entertainment District, Avenue Market is as much an entrepreneurial enterprise as it is a public market. Its two-pronged goal is to offer support and amplification for local Black-owned businesses and farmers while providing the community with access to healthy food.

Belvedere Square
Found in North Baltimore, Belvedere Square is a sprawling commercial hub where you can find everything from vintage wines to boutique yoga classes to fresh-cooked ramen. Shop locally-sourced and gourmet goodies at the market, or treat yourself to bites from The Pizza Trust, Thai Landing, Koba Korean Barbecue and more.

If you’re considering Baltimore as a city break destination, you can find out more about its unique character and wide array of attractions by clicking here.