Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market Serves Up One of the World’s Best Food Experiences

Philadelphia is earning global recognition as one of the top destinations for food-loving travellers, following a double win for the city’s iconic Reading Terminal Market. A recent study by AllClear ranked the market as the highest-rated in the world based on the percentage of four- and five-star visitor reviews, while USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 named it the “Best Public Market in America.”

Located in the heart of the city, Reading Terminal Market has been a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s food culture since 1893. One of the oldest and largest public markets in the United States, it brings together more than 80 independent traders serving everything from classic Philly cheesesteaks and Amish baked goods to international street food and locally sourced produce.

The accolades further cement Philadelphia’s growing reputation as one of America’s most exciting culinary destinations for UK and Irish travellers. Beyond the market, the city is home to a vibrant and award-winning dining scene shaped by acclaimed chefs, diverse communities, and distinctive food neighbourhoods. Visitors can move easily between historic taverns, Italian-American institutions, contemporary fine dining restaurants, and global cuisines that reflect the city’s multicultural identity.

Philadelphia’s culinary profile received another major boost with the launch of the Michelin Guide Northeast Cities edition in 2025, which included the city for the first time. Three Philadelphia restaurants were awarded one Michelin star: Provenance, Friday Saturday Sunday, and Her Place Supper Club. The recognition confirmed what many food writers and chefs have long argued — that Philadelphia is one of the most dynamic and underrated food cities in the United States.

What makes Philadelphia especially appealing for gourmet travellers is the way the city lends itself to exploration. Its neighbourhoods are dense, walkable, and deeply connected to local communities, allowing visitors to experience very different food cultures within a compact area. In a single afternoon, travellers can stop for pastries at a generations-old Italian bakery, enjoy modern Palestinian or Thai cuisine, and finish the evening in a natural wine bar.

Running throughout the summer Philadelphia has a new pedestrian friendly destination within Centre City, The Plaza at Reading Terminal Market presented by Jefferson, which has transformed 15,000 quare feet of Filbert Street into an outside gathering place with Market Day Stalls on the Plaza selling locally produced goods, expanded outdoor seating, live entertainment, activations and a bar. The eight-week activation arrives as Philadelphia prepares to welcome visitors for a summer filled with major events, including FIFA World Cup activities, America’s 250th anniversary celebration, and MLB All-Star Week.

For more information on Philadelphia go to www.discoverphl.com