Mercado de San Miguel

As some of you know, as soon as I arrived in Sol I fell in love. I knew straight away that this was where I wanted to spend my year in Madrid and I have to say one of the main attractions was definitely the Mercado de San Miguel. 

Mercado de San Miguel is the last Iron market left standing in Madrid, it's named after a church which previously stood in the same spot. Now, I've seen an indoor market in Spain before and, compared to the only other indoor market I've seen (Birmingham...grimace), they're pretty cool. You're surrounded by mountains of colourful fresh fruit and vegetables and impressive arrays of fish and meat. However, Mercado de San Miguel is certainly more unique for not only is it host to a fresh fish stall rivaling all others....we're talking full octopuses on display, but it has what I believe is the perfect combination of necessities under just one roof! 

For the early riser, there is a juice bar with a wonderful display of exotic fruits which the barista will transform into a refreshing smoothie for you, or, if you return later at night, he might even add a little something extra...

For the seafood lover there is the aforementioned fish counter at which you can buy fresh seafood as well as a little taster, I definitely aim to make trying their fried seafood cones a top priority!

There's also a bar devoted entirely to oysters...might save those until I'm feeling a little more adventurous.

For the not so adventurous, or those who don't appreciate foods with the consistency of a bogey (so I've heard), there is numerous other options such as sushi, croquettes, nuts, olives, cheese and bread.

And finally, if you're strolling past after dinner one night why not step inside to one of the many bars serving wine, beer and, my favourite, cocktails! 

If you have any room left after your meal they have a glorious selection of mini desserts, they look outstanding (another one to add to the priorities list!) I can't wait to take my Dad there I'm sure it will appeal to his sweet tooth! This one's not so mini, but glorious nonetheless...

Mercado de San Miguel is truly unique, has a lively, relaxed atmosphere and I think it is the kind of place I will never get tired of taking people to when they visit me...as long as they pick up the cheque!

Donjuan x