Let’s talk about food markets in Madrid, both the traditional ones and also those transformed into a modern, urban spaces.
All these markets are highlighted by their charm.
Over the years customers stopped shopping in them and they eventually fell into disuse.

Lately,  some of these spaces have been renovated and adapted to the new times in such a way that they now combine the traditional activity with providing an place where products can be tasted and enjoyed.
No doubt these markets have reinvented themselves and nowadays are very trendy destinations.

MERCADO DE SAN MIGUEL
It’s been there, right next to Plaza Mayor, for around 100 years.
Once a traditional market, it has now been transformed into a foodies’ temple.
It is well recognized by its metal structure and it is not a surprise to find it listed as a monument of cultural interest.
Address: Plaza San Miguel
Schedule: Sun – Wed 10am – Midnight / Thu – Sat 10am – 2am

MERCADO DE SAN ANTÓN

This is a food market in the heart of Chueca, one of the most trendy areas in town.
It has three floors. The first  floor focuses on perishable goods, with stalls selling a wide range of products from cured meats to quality hamburgers,  fruits and vegetables.
The second floor boasts a tavern-wine bar and ten stalls providing cooking/takeaway services, where customers can taste and take away Greek dishes, Japanese food, seafood, sweets, milkshakes, juices and much more…
This market has a modern art room that can be used for hosting cultural events.
On the upper floor there is a nice rooftop with views and a restaurant ,“La Cocina de San Anton” which serves traditional food with an international touch.
Address: Calle Augusto Figueroa, 24
Horario: Supermarket on 1st floor: Mon – Sat 10am – 10pm./ Tapas área on 2nd floor: Mon – Sun 10am – Midnight / Restaurant on 3rd floor: 10 am – 12.30am (holidays until 1.30am).

MERCADO DE ANTÓN MARTÍN
Behind the little square of Antón Martín we find this market built in the 50’s. Although it’s been partially modernised it still retains its distinctive old charm. Here you can buy fresh products or dine in informal small restaurants with great variety of gastronomic offerings.
Shopping here provides locals and visitors a good opportunity to socialize. Furthermore, the space offers not only food choices. There is a shoe repair shop, a knife sharpener store and even a Flamenco dance school.
Address: Calle Santa Isabel, 5
Schedule: Mon – Fri 9am – 9pm / Sat 9am – 3pm / Closed on Sun.

MERCADO DE SAN ILDEFONSO
This street food market, located in the very comercial street of Fuencarral, mixes leisure with gastronomy.
There are quite a few stalls with a variety of different kinds of food and tapas to be enjoyed at communal tables.
Cool informal urban atmosphere.
Address: Calle Fuencarral, 57
Schedule: Sun – Wed: 10am – midnight / Thu – Sat: 10am – 1am

MERCADO FOOD MARKET BARCELÓ
Culture, leisure and gourmet gastronomy meet each other at this space located close to Bilbao Metro Station.
Many products can be tasted here. Musical performances take place in this space along with exhibitions and book launches.
Address: Calle Barceló, 6
Schedule: Domingo a Jueves de 12h a 00h / Viernes a Domingo de 12h – 02.30h

MERCADO PLATEA
This is an innovative, multi gastronomic location rather than a market.
In the basement there are several stalls providing different kinds of food with the more formal and expensive restaurants being located upstairs. Some of them have even been awarded Michelin stars.
There are 5 floors in total.
Located just in front of Colon Square, it boasts a big stage for musical performances and stunt shows.
Address: Calle Goya 5-7
Schedule: Mon – Thu: 12pm – midnight / Fr- Sun: 12pm – 2am

GOURMET EXPERIENCE GRAN VÍA
The famous Corte Inglés department store flaunts on the 9th floor of its Callao Sq/Gran Via location a very nice terrace with astonishing views.
There are several retail spaces hosting informal restaurants, a bakery, Ice cream shop and a shopping area with many gourmet products.
Address: Plaza de Callao
Schedule:Mon – Thu: 12pm – midnight / Fri – Sun: 11am – 10pm

YATAI MARKET
Between Jacinto Benavente and Tirso de Molina Squares we will find a very recent food market that resembles a street in Bangkok or Tokyo.
Serves Asian food . Very cool place.
Address: Calle Doctor Cortezo, 10
Schedule: Sun – Wed: 12pm – 12.30am / Thu – Sat: 12pm – 01am