Madrid is a true paradise for foodies. There are a multitude of food courts and mercados in Madrid that offer an endless selection of culinary delights. From traditional Spanish dishes such as paella and tapas to international specialties, there is something for everyone in Madrid.
A visit to Madrid would not be complete without a trip to one of the city’s many markets. Here you can buy fresh produce directly from the farmers, sample handmade delicacies and discover authentic Spanish cuisine. The food courts in Madrid are another highlight, some of which are located directly in the market halls. They offer an impressive selection of restaurants and food stalls serving a variety of dishes.
We almost walked past the building – but it doesn’t look very inviting from the outside either… The original market hall was demolished in the 19th century and replaced by a modern building in 2011. It looks more like an office building to me, only the signs told us that this is where one of Madrid’s mercados is located.
The Mercato San Antón is located in Madrid Chueca between Atocha and Santa Isabel streets. There are three levels with different offers for visitors. On the one hand, there is the area for fresh produce, where mainly residents of the neighborhood shop. In addition to fish and meat, fruit and vegetables are of course also on offer here. Some of the stalls also offer tapas.
In another area, various stalls offer small dishes. Here you will find vermuterías, cafés and small restaurants. From traditional dishes to oriental cuisine, you will find a wide variety of options here.
We made a stop here during our tour of the city and enjoyed a ham platter with a beer at one of the stalls. There was a lot going on and, in addition to many Spaniards, there were also a few holidaymakers here. The few seats were in high demand and we were glad that other guests were just leaving their seats when we arrived.
On the top floor of the building, the 11 Nudos Terraza Nordés restaurant serves delicious dishes from the sea and land.
Address
C. de Sta. Isabel, 5, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spanien
Opening hours
Market Monday-Saturday: 9.30-21.30h Gastronomy area Monday-Sunday: 12-24 h Restaurant Monday-Sunday: 13-01h
Mercado de la Paz
The Mercado de la Paz is located in the Salamanca district. The market can be reached via three entrances: Ayala Street (main street), Lagasca and Claudio Coello.
Here the local population can find a wide range of products: butchers, chicken stores, fish stores, fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy products, etc. There are also small stores and services offering household and catering products. It is even possible to do your shopping online.
The market hall is certainly one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It was opened in 1882 and is characterized by its classic cast iron structure. However, the 60 or so market stalls are modern and functional.
The market at the Mercado de la Paz is always loud and lively. This is where people meet, where they exchange news, where they live.
Address
Cl. de Ayala, 28B, Salamanca, 28001 Madrid, Spanien
Opening hours
Monday – Friday: 09-20 h Saturday: 9-14:30 h
Mercado de San Fernando
The multicultural Lavapiés district is home to one of the best food markets in the city. Behind the impressive old façade is a newly designed market where the city’s residents can buy fresh food and other products.
Address
C. de Embajadores, 41, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spanien
Opening hours
Monday: 9-14:30 h and 17:30-21h Tuesday-Saturday: 9 -22 h Sunday: 11 -18 h
Mercado de San Miguel
The Mercado de San Miguel opened in 1916. The beautiful iron building is still used as a market today and around 10 million visitors come to this mercado in Madrid every year. So it’s not an insider tip and very touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.
Initially, the residents of the Madrid district only bought fresh food here. The market was converted in 2009. Now there is a culinary temple in the large hall. Here, visitors can feast on culinary specialties from all over the country. Fancy Iberian ham or seafood, or how about Mediterranean rice or the most special cheeses from Castile, Asturias or the Basque Country?
At the 30 or so stalls, you can eat homemade ice cream from Joan Roca (3 Michelin stars), traditional rice dishes from Rodrigo de la Calle (1 Michelin star) and typical tapas from Grupo Arzabal.
The selection of tapas and pintxos is simply huge.
Address
Pl. de San Miguel, s/n, Centro, 28005 Madrid, Spanien
Opening hours
Sunday – Thursday: 10-24 h Fridays, Saturday: 10 -01 h
Mercado de San Ildefonso
The Mercado de San Ildefonso is located on Calle de Fuencarral. A market in the style of a street food market has been created in a three-storey building. Here you can meet up after work for an after-work drink or eat at one of the 16 different food stalls. What’s really nice is that you also have the option of sitting on one of two covered terraces.
This Mercados in Madrid is also a venue for book presentations, parties, product launches, business meetings, photo sessions, cooking shows,…
Address
Calle de Fuencarral, 57 28004 Madrid
Opening hours
Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 13-24 h Friday – Saturday: 13 – 01 h
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