The roots of the Reading Terminal Market date to 1892, when the Reading Railroad commissioned a food bazaar to be built in the train shed's cellar as part of its grand expansion plans. Stroll amid the bustling stalls and you can see and smell old and new culinary delights. Amish merchants sell baked goods and produce straight from the farm alongside vendors offering the latest gourmet vegetarian dishes, artisan breads, and sushi. Vendors also sell exotic spices, flowers, crafts, jewelry, clothing, and cookbooks. Eighty-six merchants are represented here, but try not to miss Amish-owned Fisher's Soft Pretzels for piping hot, freshly rolled soft pretzels; Bassetts Ice Cream, America's oldest ice-cream makers; Metropolitan Bakery, for hearty breads and light pastries; and the Down Home Diner for affordable Southern-style fare. The market is open Monday through Saturday, from 8 to 6. The Amish vendors are open Wednesday through Saturday.
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