Mercado Central

The Mercado Central

The Santiago audio-guided tour takes you to the Mercado Central, the main market of the city, an ideal place to discover the local gastronomy and to come into contact with the inhabitants.

The kingdom of seafood

Built in the nineteenth century, the Mercado Central has occupied an important place in the life of the inhabitants since 1872. One is welcomed there by the colours, the smells and the frenzy of a place where the highlight remains the immense fish market: the stalls overflow with crabs, lobsters, sea urchins, oysters and an incredible quantity of fish and shellfish. But one also finds there bread, exotic fruits and artisanal cheeses.

What there is to see

The Mercado Central houses numerous restaurants that serve the best specialities of Chile in an authentic atmosphere. One can taste there the caldillo de congrio, a conger eel broth simmered with white wine and vegetables, the chupe de centolla, a king crab gratin, the pastel de choclo, a gratin of corn and meat, or the empanadas, those stuffed fritters fried or baked. A must for food lovers.

Practical information

The Mercado Central is in the centre of Santiago, near the Mapocho river. The stalls and restaurants generally open during the day, according to their own hours; the market is particularly lively in the morning and at lunchtime. Access is on the level.

Since when has the Mercado Central of Santiago existed?

Built in the nineteenth century, it has occupied an important place in the life of the inhabitants since 1872, especially renowned for its fish market.

What specialities to taste at the Mercado Central?

The caldillo de congrio, the chupe de centolla, the pastel de choclo and the empanadas, among the great Chilean specialities.