Earlier this week, my friend April and I had lunch at Rappahannock Oysters Co. at Union Market in Northeast DC. I'm not sure when I would have gotten around to discovering Union Market had April not suggested we go there.
For one thing, it's out of the usual restaurant spheres I explore, which, let's face it, is unhealthy. All spheres must be explored! And second, had I ventured out on my own, I may have had second thoughts going through some sketchy neighborhoods. But I went, I loved it, and I'll go again.
Union Market houses a number eateries, fresh meat and fish vendors, and a drool-enducing kitchen supply store. And if that wan't enough, there is a lot of free parking out front. I know -- insanity! The ceilings are high, and it's a white, clean, washed-up space. If you work in the vicinity, it's a great getaway for an hour or so for lunch.
We were in the mood for crab cakes and sat at the bar of the Rappahannock Oysters Co. We started with a white gazpacho soup. I cannot emphasize how important it is for you to try the white gazpacho soup. It's made of white grape, cucumber, and marcona almond. The soup has a flour-like texture to it that is delightful for a cold soup.
Next we moved on to a crab cake with remoulade on top of celery root slaw. Really, really good. The portion is massive and I suggest eating it slowly to savor with a beer or a light, white wine. I had mine with a sparkling lemonade.
There is a lot more to explore at Union Market and I think a Sunday field trip may be in order. Go.
In the mean time, here is a new feature on my blog posts for you to enjoy -- photos of my dining companions. This is April.
Union Market
1309 5th Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002
http://unionmarketdc.com
Metro: NoMA-Gallaudet U (Red Line)
