Madrid has many diverse and active markets that are not mere marketplaces to buy food for you household. Markets have had to modernize into social centers in order to not disappear in the last decades, as supermarkets have eliminated the need for them. Even so, Spanish people have a strong culture of buying household food at the market -- the better quality and personalized service is what attracts the locals. Meanwhile, markets have adapted by becoming ecosystems of bars and places to try fresh food.
El mercado de San Fernando is one of the many markets in Madrid. Then there's Mercado de la Paz, Mercado de Maravillas, Mercado San Antón, Mercado San Ildefonso, Mercado de la Cebada, among many others. El mercado de San Fernando is my favourite due to its atmosphere. Since it's located in the emblematic neighbourhood of Embajadores / Lavapies, the market has inherited the alternative and informal attitude that's characteristic of the neighbourhood.
El mercado de San Fernando is a mixture of traditional establishments and modern spots. Therefore you can find classic old school tapas, sushi, Peruvian or ramen. You may get lost in their corridors full of spots with different specialities. My favourite place is the center, where there is an open space where the action is. Youngsters sit on the floor and kids run around. On weekends there is more life.
A tip would be to drink and snack during the day and finish off the evening in La Tabacalera.
Calle de Embajadores 41
Ceviche:
€
8
915272512
Find your way with 264 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The top dishes for me are the pancakes with sweet and savoury fillings (all gluten-free) and the Middle Eastern inspired offerings, especially the falafel.
by
Whether you're in the mood for fluffy pancakes dripping in honey, a hearty avocado toast, or a classic eggs Benedict, Adorado Bar has you covered.
by
The heart of their offerings is the legendary piri piri sauce - a spicy, tangy concoction that elevates the succulent grilled chicken to a whole new level.
by
This harmonious blend is evident in every dish, from the petite, intricately crafted bites to the more substantial, hearty plates.
by
A standout feature is its nod to traditional Spanish cuisine with a selection of casquería (offal dishes) paying homage to age-old culinary traditions.
by
Unlike the pan-fried versions found closeby, their shaobing is grilled to perfection, giving it a distinct texture & flavor that's both rustic and refined.
by
If you are reading this, it's because you're looking for somewhere authentic and off the tourist trail in Madrid. "La Nueva"will give you that...
by
"Pizza Posta" in Lavapies, Madrid, makes Argentinian pizza - thick, pillowy and crispy on the outside...
by
Asturian gastronomy offers some of the most comforting dishes in Spain, and "El Ñeru" restaurant is one of the best ambassadors we have in Madrid...
by
"SilverwoodBloom" in Madrid sells an intriguing assortment of niche products and objects for beautifying your home. I simply want them all!
by
"NAP" Madrid - Neapolitan Authentic Pizza - is for eating pizza, period, and that's why the restaurant has few other options. But that's a good thing!
by
264 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 264 Insider Tips