The Mercado Central is a covered marketplace in the centre of Mendoza that is frequented by locals and visitors alike. Purchase a snack or dinner ingredients, chat to friendly vendors and sample the tastes of the region.
This popular market has inhabited the same location for over a century. Join the crowds inside and learn about the food culture of this enchanting city.
One of the market’s most noticeable features is its raw meat stalls. Admire selections of hanging salamis, sausages and carcasses of all types of animals. Ask stall-owners for samples of anything from limbs to livers. No part of the animal goes to waste here.
If the rustic aroma of spiced meats is too much for you, explore Mercado Central’s fruit, vegetable and nut sections. Pick up a crunchy apple or some fresh herbs to make your own tangy chimichurri sauce, a local specialty made from herbs, garlic and vinegar. Buy a bag of almonds to snack on while you shop.
The market is also famous for its deli goods. Choose from a selection of cheeses, cold cuts and olives that will delight your taste buds. These gourmet foods are the perfect complement to a bottle of locally produced Malbec.
If you feel like eating something more substantial, purchase a made-to-order snack from one of many lunch stalls. These cooks will be happy to fry up empanadas (a pastry filled with meat) or pizzas on request.
Before you start purchasing, walk around the market to get a feel for prices and goods on offer. It is also recommended to keep your camera hidden, as tourists may be targeted by pickpockets, especially in busy crowds.
The Mercado Central is located in downtown Mendoza. You can get there comfortably on foot from most areas in central Mendoza or catch one of the frequent buses. It is open daily from breakfast to dinner but is closed on Sunday.
