Exploring the Reading Terminal Market
The Reading Terminal Market is a massive, historic enclosed public market located in Center City Philadelphia. Operating since 1893, it is one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country. It is an absolute chaotic maze of over 80 different merchants selling everything from fresh Amish produce to incredible sandwiches. It is mandatory eating for any visitor.
The Best Sandwich in America
Tommy DiNic's serves the Roast Pork Sandwich, which many locals argue is vastly superior to the cheesesteak. Thinly sliced, incredibly juicy roast pork is piled onto a seeded roll, topped with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe. It is a masterpiece.
Incredible Donuts
Beiler's Doughnuts is an Amish-run bakery located in the back of the market. The lines are massive, but they move fast. They hand-roll and fry dozens of incredible, heavily glazed and filled donuts right in front of you. The Apple Fritter is life-changing.
Towering Pastrami
Hershel's East Side Deli serves massive, New York-style Jewish deli sandwiches. They carve massive slabs of hot pastrami and corned beef to order. The sandwiches are so tall you will struggle to fit them in your mouth.
Oyster Bar Excellence
Pearl's Oyster Bar is a classic counter-seating spot that has been in the market for decades. Sit at the counter, order a massive bowl of Snapper Soup (a heavily seasoned turtle soup that is a local delicacy) and fresh, cold oysters on the half shell.
Navigating the Chaos
The market is incredibly crowded, especially on weekends. Do not go with a large group and try to eat together. Split up, have everyone buy food from different vendors, and meet in the center seating area. Seating is fiercely competitive, so be aggressive.
World Cup 2026 Philadelphia Tips
Lincoln Financial Field is located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. Unlike many other NFL stadiums, the Linc is highly accessible via public transit. You must take the SEPTA Broad Street Line (the orange line) south to NRG Station. It drops you off literally steps from the stadium. Do not attempt to drive or take an Uber to the stadium on matchday; the traffic on Broad Street and I-95 will be catastrophic.