The Market Line Brings a Food Court to the Lower East Side
The Market Line is finally here, the next-most ambitious component of the Essex Crossing mega-development.
Opening day was Friday. When we stopped by, vendors were still rushing with the finishing touches.
Walking around the basement bazaar, the vibe felt like a more “elevated” version of a mall food court. However, rather than the usual greasy, toilet-inducing grub, the Market Line peddles many of the same local food businesses to which you are accustomed.
Mini replicas of Veselka, Nom Wah Tea Parlor, Pickle Guys, and Doughnut Plant all line the floor. Some footprints larger than others. For instance, Veselka has a self-contained duplicate at the bottom of the main stairwell.
Once fully operational, the Market Line is to occupy 150,000 square-feet beneath three contiguous Essex Crossing developments on the south side of Delancey Street. There are two dozen vendors out of the gate.
Every mall needs a food court. Even on the Lower East Side.