Madrid gastronomic markets
The list of Madrid gastronomic markets is growing each year. Although they are not really “markets” but rather gourmet venues that offer far more than just fruit and vegetables.
While preserving culinary traditions, the city’s best gourmet markets now boast striking, contemporary designs and offer much more than just a place to stock up on groceries. They are places to not only discover authentic Spanish food and drink, but also enjoy a wide range of international delicacies, and are as popular with locals as with visitors.
Why should you visit one of Madrid’s gastronomic markets?
If you are curious to experience new tastes and culinary traditions while visiting Madrid, you should definitely include one of these fantastic mercados on your list of things to do. You will find not only fresh fruit and vegetables, but also a variety of bars and food stalls with exciting and unusual delicacies, often served as tapas, to enjoy on site.
While it is true that some these markets have become major tourist attractions, I have also included some not touristy places as well.
So have a look and pick yours because all of them are a paradise for food lovers!
The best Madrid gastronomic markets
Gourmet Experience Gran Vía. Located on the 9th floor of El Corte Inglés Callao, this gastronomic center has some sensational views over Madrid. The center offers a wide variety of gourmet products, mainly Spanish. Here you can find several small restaurants, both international and local. You will visit the Gourmet Experience Gran Vía if you follow walk 5 of my ‘Madrid In 9 Walks’ guide.
Gourmet Experience Serrano. On the top floor of El Corte Inglés Serrano is one of the best Madrid gastronomic markets. This great reputation is justified by the presence of establishments run by renowned chefs who accumulate, in total, seven Michelin stars. The main highlights are the StreetXo, with chef David Muñoz’s street food; Rocambolesc ice cream shop, Catalan chef Jordi Roca and his wife; and the Mexican restaurant Cascabel, by chef Roberto Ruiz. You will visit the Gourmet Experience Gran Vía if you follow walk 8 of my ‘Madrid In 9 Walks’ guide.
Mercado de San Antón. The market is on the 2nd floor of a five-story food heaven where you can stop in for tapas from each region of Spain. Its sleek modern design and array of fresh fruits, vegetables and prepared meals are a pleasure for your senses. You will visit the Mercado de San Antón if you follow walk 6 of my ‘Madrid In 9 Walks’ guide.
Mercado de San Ildefonso. Opened in 2014, occupying the space of an old market, San Ildefonso Market is an extension of the lively Calle Fuencarral where it is located. Inside the market there are 18 food stalls, three bars and two terraces. You will visit the Mercado de San Ildefonso if you follow walk 6 of my ‘Madrid In 9 Walks’ guide.
Mercado de San Miguel. This market is all about eating, as the majority of its stands serve up ready-to-eat tapas, pastries and snacks. You will visit the Mercado de San Miguel if you follow walk 1 of my ‘Madrid In 9 Walks’ guide.
Mercado de Vallehermoso. It’s a place where there’s an authentic coexistence between food stalls and tasting stands. In fact, almost all food stalls make their dishes with ingredients bought in the same market. It’s not touristy, nor is it invaded by those who just posture, but its ambience on the weekends turns it into one of the destinations for cañas and tapas.
Platea Madrid. Located in an old theater in the chic shopping district of Barrio Salamanca, it doesn’t have so much in common with traditional markets. It actually looks like a large dining room, while the atmosphere is reminiscent of a nightclub because music is played in the evening. Oh, and there is also a cocktail lounge!