The Financial Times has ranked the outdoor fruits and vegetable market in Athens’ Exarchia district among the world’s best food markets. According to tovima.com the publication highlighted the market in a feature on “wonderful local products.”
Held every Saturday on Kallidromiou Street, beneath graffiti-covered steps, the Exarchia market is described as a lively space where musicians play traditional tunes and vendors call out to promote their goods. Offerings include olive oil, honey, fish, herbs, vegetables, and fruits.
Despite claims of gentrification in Exarchia and initial protests against the construction of a new metro station in its main square, the market remains a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.
Leading the Financial Times’ list is the Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid, known for its fresh seafood, olives, cheeses, and tapas. Palermo’s Mercato del Capo in Sicily, steeped in multicultural history, also earns a spot.
France features two entries: Les Halles de Dijon, inspired by Gustave Eiffel, and Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, spanning three floors with 54 stalls and restaurants.
Other notable mentions include Chapel Market in London, celebrated for its community vibe and quality produce, and Valencia’s Central Market in Spain, one of Europe’s largest, with over 1,200 stalls offering fresh fruits, meat, cheese, and live eels.
Exarchia’s inclusion affirms its enduring charm amid Athens’ evolving urban landscape.
Source: tovima.com
