Great Places to Shop in Union Market & NoMa

Local Flair, Flagship Energy

The industrial warehouses of Northeast D.C. have traded wholesale crates for a more refined era, evolving into the city’s most essential shopping corridor where curated independence takes center stage.

Home Goods, Gifts & Specialty

Where you go to find the perfect housewarming gift, a soundtrack for your Sunday morning, or the final piece of decor that makes your apartment feel finished.

• REI Flagship: Housed in the historic Uline Arena, this 51,000-square-foot space is a design marvel and the neighborhood’s "town square" for outdoor enthusiasts. (NoMa)
• Politics and Prose: The city's premier independent bookstore offers a curated selection of titles and gifts in a bright, modern space. (Union Market District)
• Salt & Sundry: The neighborhood’s aesthetic anchor for expertly curated handcrafted ceramics, high-end linens, and unique home barware. (Union Market District)
• Shop Made in DC: A 100% local guarantee, featuring jewelry, stationery, and art created exclusively by D.C.-based makers. (Union Market District)
• Byrdland Records: A cultural hub for vinyl enthusiasts with a deep collection ranging from indie rock to rare local go-go. (Union Market District)
• Vintage Vintage Vintage: D.C.’s largest vintage collective, offering a massive, multi-curator treasure trove of rare home decor and accessories. (Union Market District)
• Libby & My: Now located inside Vintage Vintage Vintage, this shop is a maximalist’s dream specializing in vibrant glassware and iconic disco balls. (Union Market District)
• Flor del Soul: A boutique floral studio specializing in "soulful" arrangements, unique blooms, and handmade lifestyle accessories. (Union Market District)
• She Loves Me: A whimsical, jewel-box flower shop known for seasonal arrangements and unique, "whimsy" gifts. (NoMa)
• Jungle & Loom: The destination for turning a city apartment into a lush oasis with houseplants, woven goods, and expert care advice. (Union Market District)
• District Candle Lab: An interactive experience where you can browse pre-poured scents or book a session to create your own signature fragrance. (Union Market District)
• ArtTepuy: Located in La Cosecha, this gallery showcases contemporary Venezuelan art and handcrafted goods with a global perspective. (Union Market District)
• Warby Parker: A bright, mural-adorned storefront that makes frame-shopping feel like a boutique experience. (Union Market District)
• Herman Miller: A true design icon and pilgrimage site for world-class furniture and ergonomic home office solutions. (Union Market District)
• Framebridge: The final touch for personalizing your space with professional, custom framing for local art and photography. (Union Market District)

Apparel & Accessories

From DC-designed high fashion to global streetwear grails and sustainable footwear, this chapter spans the high-energy flagships of NoMa to the curated boutiques of the Union Market District.

• REI Flagship: More than just gear, this is the neighborhood’s ultimate destination for outdoor apparel and rugged-chic lifestyle wear. (NoMa)
• A Ma Maniére: A global heavy hitter in luxury streetwear. This isn't just a sneaker shop; it’s a high-fashion boutique featuring brands like Lanvin and Off-White. (NoMa)
• MM.LaFleur: Located in the heart of NoMa's professional hub, this is the go-to for chic, functional workwear and personal styling appointments. (NoMa)
• Ron David Studio: The ultimate local stop for high-fashion ready-to-wear, bold eyewear, and luxury croc-embossed handbags. (Union Market District)
• Grace Loves Lace: The world-renowned Australian bridal boutique offers an earthy-chic, appointment-only showroom for their iconic lace gowns. (Union Market District)
• Bitter Grace: A boutique focused on "inner elegance" and intentional living, offering a curated selection of sustainable, timeless apparel. (Union Market District)
• Slow Down Market: An ethical lifestyle shop featuring small designers, sustainable clothing, and curated apothecary items. (Union Market District)
• Shelter: A contemporary jewelry boutique featuring independent designers and rare stones; a local favorite for unique bridal and fine jewelry. (Union Market District)
• Definition Studio: A Mediterranean-inspired boutique offering unique linen apparel, leather goods, and accessories sourced from global artisans. (Union Market District)
• Charix: Known for their iconic, handmade leather shoes that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort and style. (Union Market District)

Specialty Food & Groceries

The places that make the neighborhood so livable—where artisanal specialists meet high-end grocers to keep your kitchen stocked with the city's best ingredients.

• Bread Alley: Tucked away in an alleyway behind 5th Street, this is where the city’s top restaurants get their sourdough. Open to the public for fresh-baked loaves. (Union Market District)
• Grand Cata: An award-winning Latin American wine shop and market located in La Cosecha. Perfect for finding unique bottles and gourmet staples from across the Americas. (Union Market District)
• Harvey’s by Soko: Formerly Harvey’s Market, this reimagined butcher shop and deli by the Soko family continues the tradition of sustainable, high-quality meats. A ocal favorite for premium cuts, expert advice, and elevated deli sandwiches. (Union Market District)
• Almaala Farms: Bringing the farm-to-table experience directly to the market with fresh, seasonal produce sourced from their nearby local farm. (Union Market District)
• Arcay Chocolates: Award-winning, handcrafted gourmet chocolates that are almost too beautiful to eat. (Union Market District)
• Plant Magic Bottle Shop: A modern take on the bottle shop, focusing on botanical-infused spirits and high-end non-alcoholic options. (Union Market District)
• Trader Joe’s: The daily anchor of the neighborhood. Located right near the NoMa-Gallaudet Metro, it’s the most convenient grocery spot in the area. (NoMa)
• Whole Foods Market: Just a short walk away on H Street, this location serves as the high-end grocery pillar for the southern edge of the neighborhood. (NoMa)
• Harris Teeter: A reliable, full-service grocery staple located on First Street NE, perfect for everyday essentials and a quick pharmacy stop. (NoMa)

Discover a New Theory

At Theory, we’re a purpose-built community of people who crave urban life without compromise, blending a great location with expansive floor plans, floor-to-ceiling windows, and luxe amenities. Come visit us in NoMa-Union Market and see what Northwest DC is is all about.