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 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
It’s a TARDIS-like Aladdin’s cave of colour and creativity for anyone, but also a great place to find some peculiarly Spanish items...
by
The Spanish owner, David, honed his knowledge in Japan of this tasty curry, which is served with rice and crunchy panko-covered meat, seafood or veg.
by
Housed in Nuevos Ministerios, this museum has an ambitious aim - to raise awareness of how architecture impacts the quality of our lives.
by
This little Korean place, has a exquisitely concise menu - 6 different dumplings, steamed or fried, plus a couple of specials and sides and that’s it.
by
The largest piece represents the Liberty Gate; three large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are 'the trees of dreams.'
by
FMCMP in Madrid is a quiet, elegant space that still feels fresh. It is a fantastic museum and I can't think of a better place to spend an hour!
by
It’s really cosy but airy at the same time - there’s room enough between the variety of seating arrangements for one not to feel boxed in.
by
The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.
by
This hidden gem, located in the Malasaña neighborhood, is a testament to the art of mixology and offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.
by
This fantastic wine shop, Vino y Compañía is the place to discover the wonderful variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!
by
266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 266 Insider Tips