El Mercado de San Miguel

I've actually been back in England's green and pleasant land for just under two weeks now but, what with visiting people, checking on my house for uni next year and generally doing a whole lot of nothing much at home, this blog has been taking a bit of a back seat. Don't worry though; soon you'll be treated to the obligatory long, emotional end of year abroad reflection but for now here's a post on one of the most famous food markets in Madrid - El Mercado de San Miguel.

 

 

Housed in an old cast iron and glass building just off Plaza Mayor this market is a must see on any trip to Madrid.



 

 

 

 

 

 

A foodie's paradise, San Miguel is packed with people and its stalls are heaving under the weight of the delicacies on offer. Great salty hams hang from the walls, shining fish are nestled on beds of crushed ice and all manner of gorgeous, bite-size tapas stand in rows under glass covered counters.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you're after a huge Spanish lunch with your family or friends then look elsewhere. Table space here is scarce and prices high. What San Miguel is perfect for, however, is a few tasty morsels of authentic Spanish cuisine munched while wandering around and taking in its sights and smells. Why not follow up your jamón with something sweet? Multicoloured macaroons, crunchy almonds drizzled with golden honey, shining custard tarts dusted with cinamon and refreshingly creamy frozen yogurt are all on offer alongside much more:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The fruit and vegetables here are almost unbelievably perfect; good to look at but far too overpriced to eat.

 

 

 

 

 

Dotted throughout the market are drinks stalls carrying iced bottles of beer and huge fish-bowl sized gin and tonics. Nobody can visit Madrid and not try a mojito of some sort:

 





A beautiful old building with gorgeous food, a buzzing atmosphere and an incredibly central location, El Mercado de San Miguel really can't be ignored. If you're visiting Madrid even for a couple of days be sure to visit this impressive temple to all things food.