A landmark on the Lower East Side, Essex Market (formerly known as Essex Street Market) was one of the original thirteen markets of the 19th century, created by New York City mayor Fiorello La Guardia who waged a war on vendors using pushcarts, believing that they were a hazard to traffic and health. The street merchants of the Lower East Side were encouraged to take their business off the streets and begin selling within the indoor market, which soon filled up housing 475 vendors across four cinderblock buildings.

Today the market has relocated to the impressive modernistic space of the Essex Crossing development and is still home to many of the original traders, providing residents with high quality goods and a place to connect as a community.

The iconic new space is three times the size and has allowed additional vendors to join the Essex Market network, as well as including a beautiful mezzanine space, a demonstration kitchen and event space.

I admire how each vendor has their own unique story to tell and their authentic Lower East Side charm. They love to get to know their local customers and share their knowledge of their goods, creating a wonderful community spirit within this historic food hall.

A full list of their diverse vendors can be found on their website ranging from organic grocery stores, speciality coffee shops, heavenly bakeries, fresh seafood sellers, and artisan cheesemongers.

If you only have time to check out one place within the market, head over to Shopsin’s – the infamous cult diner offering a huge menu featuring pancake land, egg land and loads of tasty tex mex.

Serving up the neighbourhood for over 80 years with delicious produce, the character and the people of the tight-knit Essex Market family are what make it such a unique and endearing place to explore.