Union Market’s kitchen and home-decor store queen on where to eat, shop and hang out in up-and-coming NoMa.
In 2012, local food writer and entrepreneur Amanda McClements opened Salt & Sundry, her chicly curated kitchen, home and gift store with locations in Union Market and on 14th Street in Logan Circle. She’s seen the emerging NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue NE) neighborhood turn into a restaurant, retail and cool- hunting boom zone since then. Here’s where she spends time in her work neighborhood.
What purpose do you see Salt & Sundry serving?
AM: I want to encourage people to open their homes and entertain. We’re taking the intimidation factor out of decor by showing a laid-back, casual way to pull your space together. I love highlighting the work of talented small makers from DC and beyond.
What’s the vibe of NoMa like?
AM: It’s becoming a real cross-section of DC. It’s a gathering place for young families, students and native Washingtonians, tourists and the occasional celebrity or politician. I’m excited to see the Union Market district take shape, too.What’s your dream meal at Union Market? Grazing from vendor to vendor is encouraged!
AM: It changes from week to week! Currently I would kick off with a dozen Olde Salt oysters from Rappahannock Oyster Bar, followed by a salmon poke bowl from District Fishwife. Then a waffle cone of coffee ice cream from Trickling Springs. For an early-afternoon pick-me-up, I love a London Fog (Earl Grey tea with steamed milk) from Peregrine Espresso.
Outside of Union Market, where do you hang out in NoMa?
AM: I love hitting a movie at the Angelika pop-up movie theater, where you can sip local brews while you watch indie films. Afterward, I’d grab a gelato at Dolcezza’s beautiful factory.
What about shopping for things that aren’t food-related … is there anywhere you like?
AM: Nomad Yard Collectiv on New York Avenue NE is a must-stop for amazing vintage clothes.
What’s the best way to get to know NoMa?
AM: Even though there is more parking here than in other parts of the city, exploring on foot is the best way to get a real taste of the neighborhood. Start at Union Market, and plan to spend a few hours taking it all in. And visit some of the new distilleries in the area.
NoMa is full of cool things to do and new spots are opening all the time. Check out more about Union Market, or these things to see and do in NoMa.
