Foodies. take note. If there´s one thing that Europe´s great historic food markets have in common, it´s their ability to tell stories through flavours, aromas, and textures. Browsing their stalls and eateries, you´ll find not only different and fresh products, but also the essence of the cities in which they´re located, deliciously mixing tradition and modernity. They provide experiences that you – and your taste buds – will never forget, and here are five of the top examples:
Mercado San Miguel, Madrid
In the heart of central Madrid, next to the Plaza Mayor, this iron and glass icon inaugurated in 1915 is a favourite grazing ground of visitors as well as some locals, and is a perfect showcase of the best of Spanish cuisine, from Serrano ham, Ibérico sausages, croquettes and paellas of various types to sweets of various types – along with a number of international options.
Mercat de Sant Josep (La Boquería), Barcelona
Older (1836) and larger than San Miguel, this also iconic market is located approximately halfway along Barcelona´s famous Rambla, and in addition to serving up tasty local treats is also a bona fide food market for locals, with stalls selling all manner of fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, spices, and sweets. In addition, there are even upstairs spaces where you can take cooking classes.
Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris
In the charming old Marais district, the oldest covered market in France´s capital traces its roots back to 1615 and its name to a nearby orphanage of the “red children,” so named because they were all clad in red. And here you´ll find a fabulous mix of French cheese and cuisine and international flavours, such as Moroccan couscous and Japanese makis. The vibe is very informal and it´s a great spot for an open-air bite of some tasty stuff indeed.
Naschmarkt, Vienna
Austria´s capital is known not only for its imperial architecture and classical music but also for this emblematic open-air market dating back to the 1770s. Its more than 120 establishments are arranged in two long rows – one dominated by eateries from the traditional Austrian to international, the other by shops and stalls selling foodstuffs as well as some souvenirs. Wiener schnitzel And apple strudle? Of course! But also sushi, döner kebab, and baklava, among many other world cuisine treats. And come on a Saturday, when a weekly flea market is held at one end.
Central Market Hall, Budapest
At the end of Pest´s famous shopping street Váci utca, the 128-year-old Központi Vásárcsarnok (top) is a must-visit spot to experience the country’s more traditional side. This impressive neo-Gothic building houses three floors packed with local produce. On the ground floor you’ll find spices like the famous Hungarian paprika; sweet Tokaji wines; cured meats like Pick salami (said to be the world´s best) and kolbász sausagees; and sweets such as kurtöskalács (chimney cakes). Meanwhile on the upper level you can enjoy goulasch and other traditional eats from the food stalls. Its bustling and authentic atmosphere will make you feel like a true local.
Have we whet your appetite? Come bring it to these delectable European markets with Iberia!