City Hall

We answer your burning questions about the newly renovated Cross Street Market.

- Jane Marion

BULGOGI BÁHN MÌ, al pastor tacos, or Baltimore’s biggest jaw breaker? Can’t make up your mind? We’re here to guide you through all the decisions that need to be made at the newly revitalized Cross Street Market. You’re up next, Lexington.

What’s the history of Cross Street Market?

Thanks to the growing population of Federal Hill in 1838, residents petitioned for a new market. At the time, the closest market was the now defunct Hanover Market. In 1846, a long open-air shed was built between Charles and Patapsco Streets, where vendors sold meat and poultry, seafood, and vegetables. By 1871, the market was rebuilt as a two-story Revival-style building, with the market space on the first floor and a meeting hall (with a basketball court!) on the second floor. After a fire in 1951, the structure was rebuilt as the 31,800-square-foot structure that still stands today.

What’s the story behind the sign outside?

The cool, retro neon sign outside of the market on Charles Street is a modern riff on the original neon signage that was part of the market after it was rebuilt in the 1950s.

Who’s the oldest tenant?