photoMaking my way to Union Market, the popular marketplace in northeast DC, had been on my list of things to do since moving back to the area.  While the market dates back to the 1800s it only re-opened as an indoor market in 2012, after I graduated from George Washington and moved away. The opening of the RIS prepared food stall on Thursday, Jan. 9 gave me the perfect opportunity.

Union Market is a very me place. My first reaction was I love this and I hadn’t even had any food yet. There’s a full-service restaurant, food stalls, a boutique selling unique home goods and plenty of chairs to just sit relax and people watch.

The RIS prepared food stall is right in the middle of it all. There are daily “Ris bowls,” a rotating selection of gourmet soups, hot and cold bowls and kid’s bowls. I tried the Jamaican curried goat stew which wasn’t overly spicy but warm and filling with bits of rice on what was a very cold DC day. RIS at Union Market also sells the stocks, sauces and vinaigrettes you need to create a gourmet masterpiece at home or if you’re more into having Chef Ris Lacoste’s delicious food there are prepared entrees that you’ll see similarities to from the RIS menu including braised lamb shanks, chicken pot pies and handmade meatballs. Not to mention amazing baked goods including Quiche Lorraine, sweet pie and my favorite the chocolate macaroons. I’ve never had a more crunchy on the outside but moist on the inside macaroons and the hints of coconut will have to wishing you could forget your New Year’s diet.