Mercado del puerto

I hope this stroll through Montevideo has left you hungry, because you’re now standing in front of its gastronomic hub: the Mercado del Puerto. Don’t be misled by the name, “Port Market” might make you think of fresh fish and seafood, but that’s not what you’ll find inside. This iconic spot is all about parrillas, or wood-fired grills serving up Uruguay’s take on barbecue. This is a meat lover’s haven, where everything from steak to offal hits the grill. In Uruguay, there are about four cows for every person, and they roam freely on natural pastures, so you can imagine the quality. If you’re a fan of grilled meats, welcome to paradise. If not… well, there’s always grilled provolone cheese and the occasional pepper. That said, even if you’re not here for the food, you can enjoy a local drink called medio y medio, a blend of dry white wine and sparkling wine that’s surprisingly refreshing. You should absolutely step inside just to admire the market’s striking metal structure, which rivals some of the finest covered halls in Europe. The energy and good humor inside are contagious. The Mercado del Puerto was the brainchild of merchant Pedro Sáenz de Zumarán, who founded a company with the bold goal of creating the largest market in South America. He acquired a 3,500-square-meter property right next to the city’s port, and at the heart of this vast covered space, a grand fountain was initially installed. That fountain was later replaced by a raised platform topped with a four-sphere clock, now classed as a National Historic Monument. Beyond the food, the market has become a lively hub where local artisans and street musicians often gather to share their talents. So go ahead, explore, taste, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy this delicious slice of Montevideo.