Fresh Food Markets in Melbourne

Contributed by Mohana Saha

​I love going to markets instead of supermarkets because it’s lively and colourful, and I can see local vendors in person. And discover new foods used by locals.
 
Here’s some info for you about three of the biggest markets in Melbourne.

Queen Victoria Market
Queen Victoria market is known for fresh and organic products. It is one of the major markets in Victoria. There are so many shops in the market which sell fresh vegetables, fruits and meat products. The market is open on all days except Mondays and Wednesdays. Many meat shops offer good deals on various types of fresh meat starting from sausages, pork, lamb, beef, goat, seafood – especially close to closing time, when amazing bargains are possible. There are plenty of shops which sell organic vegetables, fruits and yummy marinated meat. A tip: most vegetable shops just accept cash, so keep the cash handy while buying vegetables. Don’t forget to carry your own reusable bags as the market is plastic-free. It also has range of good lunch stalls, so if you get tired after shopping you can have a nice meal there. And don’t forget to check out delicious jam donuts truck.

Prahran Market
Prahran market is another one of the main markets in Melbourne which offers a brilliant range of fruits, vegetables, seafood and meat. The market is also known as ‘food lovers market’ by locals as it offers high quality products, from many different cultures. It is one of the oldest markets in Melbourne. Stalls sell tempting ranges of specialities like cheese, pasta, coffees plus fruits, vegetables, beef, pork, lamb, seafood, and poultry. You can also get advice and tips on which products to purchase from market traders. The market is open on all days except on Monday, and is just a tram ride from the CBD. 

South Melbourne Market 
This market has a colourful range of shops selling fresh organic vegetables and fruits, plus specialities of coffee, cheese, French pastries, dim sims, nuts, Italian treats, household goods, shoes, clothes, pet supplies, haircuts, it has everything! You can also enjoy delicious snacks and meals while shopping, as the market offers amazing international restaurants of various cuisines – I love the Turkish café, and the giant dish of Spanish paella bubbling away near the sidewalk. Locals hang out here as their favourite weekend place. It’s also just a tram ride away.