Eat and Drink at Mercato Metropolitano Food Market

Since they opened their doors in 2016, Mercarto Metropolitano has been a go to for when you want food and drink – and lots of it! It’s a popular choice for groups thanks to the fact that they have over 40 independent trading partners that serve up everything from Italian to Vietnamese. There’s also several bars and an on-site micro-brewery too, which means it’s a great venue for settling down for a few hours. Oh, and they’re animal friendly too!

In terms of prices, I’ve definitely found that these markets have upped their prices over the last few years but then again, that’s what I’m seeing up and down the country too for street food in general! Therefore, I’d expect to pay between £8 – £12 for a main and around £5 for a pint. Whilst it’s not super cheap, just remember that you won’t be paying a tip and if you’re with friends, there will be no dreaded splitting of the bill – allowing for you to only need to concern yourself with your own personal budget. Plus, no one is going to move you on if you’ve been nursing a drink for the last hour!

They operate on a ‘first-come, first served’ basis – I’ve always been on a whim and got in fine! However if you are heading there on a busy day, a bank holiday say, I’d definitely go sooner rather than later.  For groups of 8 people and over, you can book though they don’t take bookings on Friday and Saturdays as standard.

Also, remember to check out their events – in the past they’ve hosted craft fares, cookery classes and jazz nights!

If you like this place, you may also like their other food markets:

• Mercato Mayfair – this one is noticeably a bit more pricey BUT it’s set in a Grade 1 listed church which is absolutely beautiful, so definitely worth swinging by even just for a drink to enjoy the building (and the roof top!)
• MMy Elephant Park – this one isn’t too far from the original, but is a bit quieter and in a more residential space. I haven’t been to this one yet so if you go, let me know what you think!
• Wood Wharf – coming soon!
• Ilford – coming soon!