VIBE

Though there’s been a food market on this site for over 700 years, it’s only in the last decade or so that Borough Market has transformed itself into the bustling community market and foodie haven that it is today. This is one of the oldest (and largest) food markets in the world (the old fashioned wholesale operation still runs in the early mornings), and the sprawl of maze-like alleyways lined with narrow stalls has a decidedly Old World feel. The selection is absolutely unbeatable–you can easily pick up anything from staples like primo olive oil to treats like organic cherries to obscurities like an emu steak.

CROWD

A mix of foodies, hungry locals, and tourists

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Very casual; jeans, tennies, and a hoodie will do the trick.

GO HERE WITH

Friends; family; kids

WHY WE LIKE IT

The bustling atmosphere is fun, and you’re surrounded by smells and sounds. Walking around, you'll want to sample all the delicious foods–some olives here, a taste of cheese there, followed maybe by a chorizo sandwich and some fresh produce elsewhere. Delectable chocolates and pastries along with coffee stands round out this smorgasbord of edible delights.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Some of the stalls are ridiculously overpriced. Also, a (coherent) map of the market might be helpful if you’re there for specific items, rather than grazing as you meander the alleys.

GOOD TO KNOW

Parking is very limited, so don’t bother trying to drive. (It’s really easy to get here on the Tube anyway.) Parts of the market are under redevelopment, so at the moment, besides the Central Market, there are also two other self-contained areas: Jubilee Market and Green Market. (Signs in the area make it easy to navigate.)

CLOSEST COMPS

Farmer’s Market (Los Angeles)

Read more about Borough Market in The Diary

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