To market: Adelaide Central Market

The largest covered food market in the southern hemisphere is celebrating its 150^th birthday this year! Located in the Central Business District of Adelaide the Adelaide Central Market is a food mecca showcasing South Australia’s produce, seafood, and other culinary products. 

The market was born in 1869 when a small group of sellers congregated at the corner of Gouger and Grote Streets to share their produce, fish, hay, and game. Over the years the market became more popular and in 1900 the city began construction of the beautiful Victorian façade you see today.  With several fires and refurbishments along with continued growth the market has become a mix of historical architecture and new technology. Today the market is home to over 120 shops and stalls selling produce, prepared food, and other small goods.

Still located at Gouger and Grote Streets the market is centrally located and easily accessible. The City to Bay Tram stops in Victoria Square, right outside the market and city public transportation is clean, easy to use, and will get you within a quick walk of the market. If you use the bus there is also a free Adelaide Connector Bus within the Central Business District that you can use to get to the market and to other nearby attractions. For those with a rental car there is abundant parking in the area located above the market and on Grote Street or underground parking nearby. With such easy access there is no reason to miss this foodie haven on your next visit.

Open Tuesday through Saturday, visitors will find products representing the regions blossoming food and wine culture including wine and olive oils from the Barossa Valley and brie from Kangaroo Island. Some favorite stalls include Lucia’s Fine Foods selling gourmet foods and coffees and The Old Lolly Shop which has been in the market since 1906 selling sweets and chocolates. The market is a great place to grab lunch, some souvenirs, or just some advice on food shopping and preparation.

The market also showcases local talent with demonstrations and live performances throughout the year. Check the calendar before your visit for cooking demonstrations by local guest chefs who prepare seasonal recipes using fresh ingredients from the market.  Some of last year’s demos included seafood paella, squid, and kangaroo as well as some tamer items. Recipes are available at stalls and online so you can recreate the dishes after your trip to share the smells and tastes of Australia with friends and family, of course, some ingredient substitution may be needed.

To get a feel for the market and what the vendors have to offer try one of the award-winning tours offered daily. Locals and tourist alike enjoy the market tours organized by Top Food and Wine Tours and Food Tours Australia. Top Food offers a Market Adventure Tour or a Market Breakfast Tour that allows visitors to meet stall owners, sample a variety of foods, and learn more about the market. Top Food also offers food and wine themed tours based in the region including an Adelaide Choco-Latte Tour and a Barossa Valley Tour. Food Tours Australia offers several tours of the market designed by local food expert Mark Gleeson. The Early Riser Tour and the Let’s Do Lunch Tour both include a meal as well as a tour of the market to meet vendors and learn about the market and South Australia’s food culture.

Australian cuisine and food products are revealing themselves to eaters all over the world, but there is nothing like experiencing it first hand from those who know it best. When in Adelaide make your way to this landmark to mingle with locals, learn about Australian culture and cuisine, and enjoy the smell and taste of the regions fresh bounty.