In our Spring 2026 issue,
@matttota visits the
@woopublicmarket to see how it’s grown and changed since we first covered it right after its pandemic reopening in 2021. So many new spots, so many reasons to visit!
“A cook from the funky Korean restaurant Ruby Doo’s has dropped a clear plastic bin of arugula, leaving a pile of greens in front of a busy entrance to the Worcester Public Market. The familiar rhythm of a midwinter lunch rush pauses at this vibrant marketplace near the infamous Kelley Square until Ruby Doo’s owner, Drew Day, an award-winning local chef, shuffles over to help with the cleanup.
“Well, there goes my salad,” jokes Tina Zlody, who watches the scene unfold from the foodie-haven Market Pantry, where she curates a vast collection of New England–made foods in a small, sun-dappled section of the market.
Light streaming in from wide windows facing Harding Street illuminates shelves stocked with coffees, syrups, hot sauces and wines, among a hodgepodge of other goods. Zlody spends her time tracking down locally made goodies to stock and tirelessly promoting her cadre of makers, who churn out everything from chocolates to cutting boards. A de facto market tour guide because of her chair near the entrance, Zlody often directs the daily flow of visitors to the market, who, on average, spend between two to three hours there each trip.”
To read the rest of this story, find it on our website at edibleboston.com under Current Issue, or find a hard copy at a local retailer near you! 📸:
@michaelpiazza / story by
@matttota 
