This is the first in a series of articles about new (or new to me) spots in the area.
I heard a great deal about the open-air Bow Market in Somerville’s Union Square, but had never been. One recent afternoon, I decided to check it out myself. Once a vacant storage area, it is home to over 30 shops and restaurants.
Getting There
The market is off Somerville Avenue on Bow Market Way, next to Union Tavern. It’s a little hard to find unless you know where to look. Union Square offers plenty of on-street parking. The new Green Line extension (E Line) stops in Union Square, minutes from Bow Market. Several bus lines also stop nearby.
Food
Bow Market is open every day from 8 a.m. – midnight. The 30 shops and eateries at the market have their own hours, listed on the market’s website: https://www.bowmarketsomerville.com/hours
Walking inside, the first thing you see is the courtyard. The first floor contains most dining options, offering everything from empanadas to raw oysters to macarons and everything in between. Eateries include some well-known like Mike & Patty’s sandwiches, Saus, and Hotbox. But there are also some great ethnic food options, including Filipino spot Tanam, Korean American bakery Nine Winters and South American restaurant Buenas, which features empanadas. A complete list of dining options is available on the website.
Shops
The retail stores are on the 2nd floor, offering a variety of goods from vintage menswear at Blue Bandana Relics, jewelry at Filomena Demarco Jewelry, new and used records at Vinyl Index and more! Check out the shop directory to see what you can find.
Dining In
If you’d like to sit down and enjoy your food, Bow Market offers courtyard and 2nd-floor seating. Use the reservation system to reserve tables for Rebel Rebel, Variety Bar and Create Cocktail Bar.
Remnant Brewing
Enjoy coffee or beer from Remnant. They offer both indoor and patio seating. You are welcome to bring in food from eateries within the market. Tables are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Events
Bow Market offers several special events each month. Octoberfest, Night Markets, Halloween activities, vintage markets, wine classes and more! Check the calendar for more information.https://www.bowmarketsomerville.com/menu-calendar