If you were to ask me to name a few things I LOVE about Madrid (or Spain, or Europe in general), I would definitely tell you that I LOVE the food markets in Madrid.  They are something so incredibly special and unique to Spain that you just don’t see in other places, and I love that, not only are they places to find awesome produce, meats, cheeses, and more, but also an awesome option for going out to eat and drink with friends.  Ok, I lied.  You see these awesome markets all over Europe, but using them as a place to have drinks and meet friends is something I have only seen here.  On my tours, we have visited quite a few markets and people always love them and marvel at the fact that there is such a blend of people doing their weekly shopping, friends out having drinks, and tons of little kids running around all over the place.  They’re a great option when you want to try a few different places, but don’t want to walk in the heat or cold.  While there are over 40 markets in Madrid (yes, really), there are some that are better for just eating, some that are better for just grocery shopping, and others that are the perfect blend of both.  I have been to my fair share of these markets, and here are the ones that make the top of the list.

*Keep in mind that the markets honor the siesta, meaning they are usually closed or partially closed between 2 and 5 pm.  I find the best time to go to the markets is in the morning (after 11) or around 7 pm.

Mercado de la Paz // Salamanca

This market feels a little more ‘upscale’ than some of the markets.  If you go here, you MUST go to Casa Dani and try their tortilla (Spanish omelette).

Mercado de San Fernando // Lavapiés

This market is a great one to go to with little kids.  There are tons of kids running around, so your kids will feel right at home.  Mercado San Fernando feels very “neighborhood-ly” and is full of not only Spanish shops and restaurants, but also multicultural places, which reflect the neighborhood in which it is.  If you go, try the cheesecake made with Manchego cheese from Los Panchitos de Enfrente (#71).  It is so good.

Mercado de La Cebada // La Latina 

This market is huge and there is always something fun going on.  On Saturday’s and Sunday’s, the market turns into a huge food festival.  They put tables out, and the place is full of people eating and drinking.  All of the places that normally sell raw seafood will sell cooked seafood, which people enjoy with a cold beer.  In the warmer months, the outdoor courtyard is usually full of people playing fútbol or watching the game.

Mercado de Chamberí // Chamberí

The reason I love this market is for one reason and one reason only.  The burger from Juancho’s BBQ.  Honestly, this is the best burger I have ever had in my life.  I can’t even comment on the market itself, because the stalls were closed when we were there, but the burger is a good enough reason to go.

Mercado de Antón Martin // Anton Martin

 

This market feels very authentic.  It’s the type of market where you see old women lined up on Saturday morning, elbowing their way in to order the free-range chicken from their chicken guy.  There are two floors, and it’s certainly one of the larger markets in Madrid, so there is a lot to see.  Of course, there are also some great places to get food and drinks, so my recommendation would be to hop from one place to the next.