Best Places for a Casual Lunch Near Union Market

Washington, D.C.’s Union Market District is a thriving food hub that brings together some of the city’s best casual eateries. Located in the NoMa neighborhood, this historic market has transformed into a modern-day culinary destination, offering everything from freshly baked bagels to fusion tacos and sustainable seafood bowls. The area is ideal for food lovers looking for a laid-back yet high-quality dining experience.

Whether you’re a local professional looking for a quick but delicious lunch or a visitor exploring D.C.'s food scene, Union Market provides diverse casual dining options to satisfy every palate. Below, we highlight some of the best spots to grab lunch near Union Market, covering a variety of flavors and cuisines.

Buffalo & Bergen

Where Bagels Meet Classic New York Deli Charm

If you’re craving a classic bagel sandwich with a nostalgic deli vibe, Buffalo & Bergen is the perfect spot. This New York-style eatery within Union Market specializes in hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels and delicious sandwiches that evoke the flavors of a classic East Coast deli.

• Signature Dish: The “Jefferson” bagel sandwich, stacked with house-made pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing.
• Breakfast and Brunch Favorite: Their Lox’d and Loaded Bloody Mary—a fully loaded cocktail topped with smoked salmon, capers, cream cheese, and an everything bagel—is a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Atmosphere: This spot captures the bustling, old-school charm of a New York deli, with counter seating and a vibrant energy.
• Price Range: $8–$18 per dish
• Location: Inside Union Market, 1309 5th St NE, Washington, D.C.

TaKorean

Korean-Mexican Fusion That Delivers Big Flavor

For those who love bold, fusion flavors, TaKorean offers a delicious mix of Korean-inspired proteins served in Latin American taco and bowl formats. This creative spot combines the best, offering fresh ingredients, customizable options, and affordable pricing.

• Signature Dish: Korean BBQ beef taco, topped with crispy slaw, Sriracha crema, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing.
• Customizable Bowls: Choose from rice or slaw bases and pair them with proteins like gochujang chicken, caramelized tofu, or spicy pork.
• Affordable Pricing: Their TaKo Tuesday special features $2 tacos, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice.
• Price Range: $10–$14 per meal
• Location: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, D.C.

👉 Visit TaKorean

The District Fishwife

Fresh, Sustainable Seafood with a Market-to-Table Experience

If you’re a seafood lover, The District Fishwife is a must-visit. This unique spot combines a seafood market with a casual dining setup, allowing guests to enjoy high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood in a relaxed setting.

• Signature Dish: The ahi tuna poke bowl featuring sushi-grade raw tuna, sushi rice, avocado, scallions, and sesame dressing.
• Fresh and Seasonal: The menu changes based on what’s available at the seafood market, ensuring top-tier quality and freshness.
• Other Favorites: Their fish & chips and grilled fish sandwiches are popular options.
• Price Range: $12–$18 per meal
• Location: Inside Union Market, 1309 5th St NE, Washington, D.C.

Yasmine

Authentic Lebanese Street Food

For those in the mood for authentic Lebanese cuisine, Yasmine offers a variety of flavorful, freshly prepared dishes inspired by Middle Eastern street food. Their menu focuses on grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and warm pita—perfect for a filling yet healthy lunch.

• Signature Dish: The chicken shawarma, marinated in Lebanese spices and wrapped in a soft pita with garlic sauce, pickles, and tahini.
• Fresh and Vibrant Ingredients: Expect dishes packed with herbs, spices, and tangy dressings, all made with high-quality ingredients.
• Cozy Ambiance: With warm lighting and intimate seating, Yasmine is an inviting spot for a relaxed midday meal.
• Price Range: $10–$16 per meal
• Location: Inside Union Market, 1309 5th St NE, Washington, D.C.

👉 Visit Yasmine

Bar Boheme

A European-Inspired Café Bar

For a laid-back, European-style lunch, Bar Boheme is a fantastic choice. This charming café-bar serves artisanal sandwiches, tinned seafood, and craft cocktails, making it an excellent spot for a casual yet sophisticated meal.

• Signature Dish: The Tacchino sandwich, a turkey and fresh vegetable sandwich with a green goddess sauce served on crispy sourdough.
• European Bistro Vibes: The atmosphere here feels chic and relaxed, whether enjoying a sandwich or sipping an espresso.
• Quick and Light Bites: Perfect for a light lunch with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Price Range: $9–$18 per dish
• Location: Inside Union Market, 1309 5th St NE, Washington, D.C.

Why Union Market is a Must-Visit for Lunch

Union Market isn’t just a food hall- it’s a culinary destination that showcases local chefs, international flavors, and high-quality ingredients. The area’s mix of established favorites and exciting newcomers makes it one of the best spots for a casual lunch in Washington, D.C.

Here’s why you should make Union Market a regular lunch stop:

• Diverse Cuisines: From Korean-Mexican fusion at TaKorean to classic bagels at Buffalo & Bergen, the variety ensures something for every craving.
• Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: Many eateries focus on locally sourced, sustainable, and fresh ingredients, making every meal flavorful and wholesome.
• Casual Yet Vibrant Atmosphere: Whether grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a relaxed meal, Union Market provides a lively yet casual dining experience.
• Budget-Friendly Options: With choices like $2 tacos on Tuesdays and affordable sandwich and bowl options, you can enjoy a fantastic lunch without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: The Best Casual Lunch in D.C.

Suppose you’re looking for great food in a laid-back setting. In that case, Union Market is one of the top lunch destinations in Washington, D.C. Whether you want a fresh bagel sandwich, a poke bowl, or a Lebanese shawarma wrap, the options here promise high-quality flavors, quick service, and a vibrant atmosphere.

So, why settle for an ordinary lunch? Explore Union Market today and experience the city's best casual dining options.