The Mercado de San Antón- a traditional market with a modern twist

We visited the recently reopened San Antón food market in the trendy neighbourhood of Chueca to see what it had to offer, and walking around and seeing the food on show certainly made us feel hungry! The market is one of Madrid's oldest, but its renovation has brought the market into the 21st century and has created a space where you can not only buy food, but enjoy eating it as well. Given its sleek new makeover, the market may not exactly feel like an authentic market found in many of Madrid's neighbourhoods, but from wandering around it does seem more like a traditional market than the touristy Mercado San Miguel. You'll find your greengrocer, baker, butcher, dairy and a number of other stalls selling delicatessen products where you could do your daily shopping, yet still find something a little more special. Upstairs there is a mezzanine level offering a selection of quick eateries including tapas, sushi, oysters, Italian foods and a juice bar. On the very top floor is the restaurant, La Cocina de San Antón, which has a roof terrace giving views over the city.  The restaurant lets you choose food from the market and they cook it for you, or you can order from the menu.We've not tried it yet, but we've heard some fantastic things said about it from those who have eaten there.

Our verdict: the produce on sale did look very tempting, although you will pay more than in other places. If you want something cheaper and more authentcally madrileño, you might be better taking a look at the Mercado de las Maravillas or the Mercado de Cebada. We did a feature on these and other markets in Madrid a few weeks ago- Markets in Madrid.

Location: Mercado de San Antón, Calle Augusto Figueroa 24, metro Chueca (L5), Gran Vía (L1, L5) or Sevilla (L2)
Opening hours: marketplace: Mon-Sat 10am-10pm; mezzanine food stalls everyday 10am-midnight; restaurant: Sun-Thurs 10am-midnight and Fri/Sat 10am-1.30am

Markets in Madrid

There's no better way to get an insight into a place than visiting its markets, and Madrid has its fair share. Here are some of the best markets for you to explore in Madrid:

Mercado de San Miguel

This market specialising in gourmet food is very touristy and a little overpriced, but the food is great! It's located just a stone's throw from Plaza Mayor in an early 20th century wrought iron building. It's also one of Madrid's newest markets, opening only a couple of years ago after extensive renovation.  Here you can find excellent tapas, sea food (sushi), fruits and vegetables, cheeses, olives, preserves, typical sweets and wines. It's a good place to come for lunch as you can hop from stall to stall trying the different tapas (a tapa costs around 1-2€). We recommend the stall which sells 'papas arrugadas', salted boiled potatoes in a spicy sauce, a dish typical of the Canary Islands. It's perhaps not the best place to go if you're looking for everyday foods, but if you're looking for something special, it's worth taking a look. Location: Plaza de San Miguel (just off Calle Mayor). Metro: La Latina (L5) or Ópera (L2, L5, R).

The Mercado de San Miguel

Mercado de Maravillas

A gem of a place for those who know about it. Known in Spanish as the 'market of wonders', the market sells everything under the sun Being one of Madrid's biggest and best loved markets, many madrileños say 'if you can't find it go to the Mercado de Maravillas. If it's not there it doesn't exist'. Shopping here is much more authentic and cheaper than the Mercado de San Miguel, and here you will still be able to find typical produce from all corners of Spain. Expect friendly service and great value for money. Located at Bravo Murillo 122 in one of Madrid's typical suburbs. Metro: Cuatro Caminos (L1, L2, L6).

Mercado de Antón Martín

If you're looking to buy fish, this is place to come, although vegatables and meat are also sold here. Located in one of Madrid's central neighbourhoods, it's always bustling. Location: Calle Santa Isabel 5. Metro: Antón Martín (L1).

Shopping at a market in Madrid

Mercado de La Latina (la Cebada)

Another one of Madrid's traditional markets. Located in a very distinct 1960s building (make of it what you will), the market at La Latina has been part of the neighbourhood for centuries- the orignal and more more elegant market building was pulled down years ago. Here you will find fresh produce- meats, fish, vegatables, fruits, as well as homewear, clothes and other curiousities. Inside, the building looks dated (there are plans to rebuild) and many of the shops are tired looking, but you'll meet plenty of friendly locals and pay very little! Location: Plaza de la Cebada. Metro: La Latina (L5).

Mercado de la Paz

Another oldie and the market building was designed by Gustave Eiffel! Located in the upmarket Salamanca district, but despite its location, still is very down to earth. The market is well known for its produce including meats, fruits, fish, breads and excellent selection of European cheeses (look for the shop La Bouette). You can find some fantastic tapas here as well as other fine gourmet products.
Location: Calle Ayala 28. Metro: Serrano (L4).