Nicholas TengDo you believe the best way to experience a city’s food culture is through its local markets, not its fine-dining restaurants? If so, you’re on the right track. If not, you might just be converted.
While high-end restaurants and stylish cafes are becoming more common, the humble food market remains the heart of a city’s culinary scene. Sure, a Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined experience, but a local market is where you can truly sample the authentic flavours a place has to offer.
Also read: 16 Local Foods You Must Try in Singapore
Food markets are where you get to try the produce that vendors are selling, and buy it only if you like it. If you don’t, no hard feelings, just walk about and try the next stall! With such a wide variety of foods and cuisines available, it’s a safe bet to assume that you’ll eventually stumble upon something you love!
Note: While sellers are more than happy for the public to sample their wares, they are still running a business and trying to make an honest living at the end of the day. If you genuinely do enjoy their food-stuff, please do consider supporting them and buying a portion for yourself!
Check out the infographic that Fairmont has crafted, it is full of useful facts and information about some of the best food markets around the world.
- The Farmer’s Market on the Terrace, Dubai: The market has a long-standing reputation for offering yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates classes. While it’s always best to check their current schedule for specific class timings, this has been a consistent feature of the market for years.
- Atwater Market and Jean-Talon Market, Montreal: The statement that Jean-Talon is Montreal’s biggest food market is correct. It is a well-known fact that it’s the largest, while Atwater Market, though a significant and popular destination, is smaller in comparison. The sheer variety of products in both markets remains a huge draw for visitors and locals.
- Borough Market, London: It’s well-established that Borough Market is a hub for buskers and street performers. The market’s lively atmosphere is a key part of its appeal, and you will almost certainly find musicians and other entertainers there, especially during peak hours. The reference to “piping hot pad thai” is a good example of the diverse food options available.
Enjoyed the list? Let us know which food market you intend to visit next!
