The Markets of Madrid

San Miguel

Adjacent to the Plaza Mayor we come across this architectural jewel. It is one of the few of the capital’s markets which conserves its original façade, dating from the early 20 th century. The market has two floors and covers a total area of 2000 square meters. It houses an infinite number of bistros and bars. The market, in which all the regions are represented, also offers an enormous range of food products from the four corners of the country. You can find ham, seafood, the most select cheeses as well as fresh fruit and vegetables. The market will invite you to take a leisurely stroll round to discover all it has to offer. Plaza de San Miguel, 5

San Antón

A renovated market going for an avant-garde style, the San Anton market represents the adaptation of the traditional to the society of today, Of the three floors, the ground floor is devoted to all kinds of perishable foods. This is the favorite spot of those who love home cooking and who wish to find food of the highest quality to entertain their friends and relatives. The second floor is an enormous patio accommodating a dozen or so restaurants vying with each other to offer you their best creations. Watching the chefs at work is an experience you won’t forget. Finally, the top floor is a 400 square meter open air patio where you can enjoy an al fresco meal in unbeatable surroundings. C/Augusto Figueroa 24

San Ildefonso

The San Ildefonso market surprises visitors with its no fewer than 22 eateries. Also having a ground floor and two upper floors, the market boasts variety as one of its principal attractions. Grills, Mexican, impossible sub-sandwiches, cocktails, creperies, sushi, traditional Mediterranean cooking and lots more all await your visit in one of Madrid’s most emblematic markets. The events calendar and the live music at this market will make it impossible for you to be bored during your days in the capital. C/Fuencarral 57

Platea

The most singular option in this list is, without doubt, Platea. It is an old cinema reconverted into a small mall where you will find eateries, a small stage for happenings, a stylist, a jeweler’s, a fruit shop, a tobacconist’s and many other activities. Situated near the Paseo de la Castellana on a corner of the Plaza de Colón, this is a place of refuge to defy the passage of time in the heart of Madrid. The eateries are not intended to give restaurant-type service; the idea here is to spend the evening enjoying tapas, in surroundings between baroque and classic. A rather special place which will satisfy even the most demanding. C/Goya, 7