A Food Lover's Guide to Adelaide Central Market
Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
Step into the aromatic wonderland of Adelaide Central Market and you'll instantly understand why locals consider it the beating heart of South Australia's food scene. This historic market has housed generations of traders sharing their passion for food, and remains a go-to hub for Adelaidians on the hunt for fresh produce and gourmet delights.
Come with us as we explore all the culinary goodness that this South Australian institution has to offer.
What's the Story Behind Adelaide Central Market?
Adelaide Central Market has been feeding the city since 1869. What started as a simple gathering of market gardeners selling their wares from horse-drawn carts has evolved into a bustling food paradise with more than 70 traders under one roof.
Today, the market stands as Australia's largest undercover fresh produce market, welcoming over 8 million visitors annually. The market's ongoing $400 million redevelopment plan aims to preserve its historic charm while upgrading facilities to create an even more vibrant food precinct.
Where Can You Find the Best Breakfast & Coffee?
Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
One of the brilliant things about kicking off your day at Adelaide Central Market is the incredible breakfast options. Whether you're after a quick coffee and pastry or a full sit-down feast, the market delivers in spades.
Lucia's Pizza & Spaghetti Bar
When locals talk about market stalwarts, Lucia's immediately comes to mind. This family-run gem has been serving authentic Italian fare since 1957, making it one of the market's longest-running businesses. While they're famous for their pizza and pasta, their breakfast menu is just as impressive, featuring Italian takes on Aussie breaky classics.
Big Table
For more of a traditional morning feast, Big Table is the home of big brekkies with thick cut toast, superfood salads and freshly made rolls. The location makes it the perfect spot to sit back, sip a coffee, and soak up the Market atmosphere.
The Coffee Bean Shop
Chasing a cup of bean juice to fuel your market adventure? The Coffee Bean Shop has you covered. Brewed with beans roasted just a few blocks away, you won’t find a fresher cup of coffee in the city. The best part? They sell their massive range of beans for you to use at home.
What Are The Best Spots for Fresh Produce and Specialty Goods?
Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
Fresh produce is the beating heart of Adelaide Central Market. The moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and seafood – all showcasing South Australia's incredible agricultural bounty.
Con’s Fruit & Veg
If you're after the freshest seasonal produce, Con’s is your go-to. This family-run stall has been supplying Adelaideans with quality fruits and vegetables for decades. What makes them special is their close relationships with local growers, ensuring you're getting the absolute best from the Adelaide Hills and beyond.
The Smelly Cheese Co.
With a name that tells it like it is, The Smelly Cheese Co. is a must-visit for dairy enthusiasts. Their carefully curated selection includes everything from local South Australian cheeses to rare European imports. Don't leave without trying their house-aged Manchego.
Say Cheese
If your cheese cravings haven't been fully satisfied, wander over to Say Cheese, where their passionate cheesemongers will guide you through an impressive selection of artisanal cheeses. The best part? They're always generous with their tasting samples.
Which Vendors Offer Gourmet Delights?
Looking to indulge in some gourmet goodies? Beyond the pantry staples, the market is packed to the brim with stalls selling premium, gourmet eats that will have you rushing to the closest picnic spot.
Let Them Eat
Let Them Eat is a treasure trove of vegan and vegetarian delights. With ready-to-eat meals including salads, tarts and fritters, lasagnes, desserts and vegan chocolates, their vegan deli offering is fast becoming famous with vegans and non-vegans alike!
Kangaroo Island Stall
Bringing the bounty of Kangaroo Island to the mainland, this stall showcases the island's premium products. From pure Ligurian honey (from the world's last remaining pure population of Ligurian bees) to cold-pressed oils and native bush foods, it's a brilliant way to taste KI without boarding the ferry.
Barossa Fine Foods
This family-owned business brings the best of the Barossa Valley's smallgoods tradition to the market. Their award-winning mettwurst, prosciutto and pâtés have earned them national recognition. Pop by for a sample and you'll understand why they've collected more than 400 awards for their continental deli goods.
What About Snacks & Sweets?
Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
For those with a sweet tooth or in need of a snack on the go, the market has plenty to satisfy your cravings. From nostalgic treats to artisanal chocolates, there’s something for every taste to munch on while you explore.
The Old Lolly Shop
Step back in time at The Old Lolly Shop, where nostalgic sweets meet modern treats. From classic boiled lollies to imported confectionery, this colourful stall is a hit with kids and adults alike. Their pick-and-mix selection lets you create your own perfect lolly bag – just like the good old days.
The Adelaide Nut
Going nuts for nuts? The Adelaide Nut offers an eye-popping array of raw, roasted, salted, spiced, and chocolate-covered nuts that will satisfy even the most discerning nibbler. But it doesn’t stop there, Greg and the crew also serve up a bunch of dried fruits, chocolates, and other tasty snacks perfect for keeping the taste buds happy as you stroll the market.
Haigh’s Chocolates
No sweet tooth's journey through Adelaide is complete without a visit to Haigh's Chocolates. This iconic South Australian chocolatier has been crafting premium chocolates since 1915, with their chocolate frogs arguably becoming the state’s official treat.
Which Street Food and International Flavours Should You Try?
Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
One of the best things about Adelaide Food Market is how it reflects the city's rich multicultural tapestry - you can literally eat your way around the world without leaving the market.
Asian Gourmet
When the craving for dumplings hits (and let's be honest, when isn't there a craving for dumplings?), Asian Gourmet is where you want to head. Their handmade dumplings are little pockets of perfection – the pork and chive are particularly spectacular.
Real Falafel
For a taste of the Middle East, Real Falafel serves up some of the best, well, falafel in town. These aren't your average chickpea fritters – they're crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with herby goodness. Their pita pockets stuffed with freshly made falafels, hummus, and all the trimmings are the perfect market walking lunch.
Handy Tips for First-Time Visitors
Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
Planning your first visit to Adelaide Central Market? Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of the experience:
- Time your visit wisely: The market is open Tuesday (7am-5:30pm), Wednesday and Thursday (9am-5:30pm), Friday (7am-9pm), and Saturday (7am-3pm). Closed Sunday and Monday.
- Start early: For the freshest produce and shorter queues, aim to arrive before 10am, especially on Saturdays.
- Bring your own bags: Support sustainability with reusable shopping bags – though most stalls do offer paper bags if needed.
- Come hungry: This sounds obvious, but you'll want to sample as you go! Many stalls offer tastings, and you'll kick yourself if you're too full to try something amazing.
- Talk to the traders: These passionate folks know their products inside out and often have the best tips for how to use them.
- Check out the free tours: The market offers walking tours where you can learn about its history and meet the traders – perfect for first-timers!
- Follow @adelcentralmarket on Instagram for updates on seasonal produce, special events and trader stories.
Book Your Trip to The Market
If you want your bed to be close enough that you can easily drop off your market treasures before heading out for more city adventures, Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide puts you just a short stroll from all the market action.
Whether you're planning a full foodie weekend starting with breakfast at Lucia's, sampling your way through lunch options, and picking up gourmet ingredients for an in-room picnic, our central location makes it easy. Plus, the friendly concierge team can recommend the market's seasonal highlights and help you navigate like a local. Book Your Adelaide Central Market Adventure today!