Market History

The South 9th Street Italian Market runs along 9th Street from Wharton to Fitzwater Streets. The market began in the mid-to-late 1880s when Antonio Palumbo, an Italian immigrant, opened a boarding house in the neighborhood for other Italians. Businesses sprang up to serve this growing community and began to form the largest, outdoor, continuous market in the country. Food stalls began to occupy the East side of 9th Street, where merchants sold fresh fish, fruit and vegetables. A number of butcher shops began to offer the highest-quality cuts of meat. Cheese shops, restaurants and bakeries filled the West side of 9th Street.

Today, while the outdoor vendors and many of the original Italian businesses remain, the market has diversified to reflect new waves of immigration. The market boasts some of the most authentic Mexican fare in the city and the surrounding neighborhood is home to a number of Asian eateries and grocery stores, featuring delicacies such as Korean barbeque and Vietnamese Pho. Additionally, a number of unique gift and service providers provide a well-rounded shopping experience.