Eating Our Way Through Adelaide Central Market

This post was originally published in 2014 and has been updated in 2018 with the most recent information for planning a trip to the Adelaide Central Market.

Adelaide Central Market is one of the most popular attractions in the city, but unlike most other Adelaide attractions, this market is also popular with the locals. In fact, many locals consider  Adelaide Central Market to be the centre of food, culture, and lifestyle in Adelaide. That’s a big statement for what seems to be just another produce market!

We stopped over in Adelaide on our way to Barossa Valley earlier this year and after being lured in by the big promises of “foodie heaven”, we simply had to check out what the Adelaide Central Market is all about. But to be honest, we didn’t really do it justice. We arrived at the market late on Friday, hoping to explore and grab a bite to eat before heading out on the town.

Adelaide Central Market Opening Hours

The market features 80 specialist stalls, making it the biggest fresh produce market in South Australia. The stalls range from baked goods to meat and seafood, to nuts, cheese and more. Walking down the colourful aisles, we quickly realized, we were just a bit too late.

There was lots to see, to taste, and to try but with only an hour left until closing, everyone was already wrapping up for the day.

Turns out, the market is at its very best on Saturdays. With entertainment for both kids and adults, Adelaide Central Market  is the perfect spot to start your weekend. A variety of classes and activities also take place at the Market on Saturday.

Check out the Small Goods Appreciation Class, presented by Barossa Fine Foods, or the Sausage or Ham & Bacon Making Class, put on by Feast Fine Foods.

A number of companies also offer food tours and cooking classes at the Adelaide Central Market. Top Food and Wine Tours and Central Market Tour offer a variety of tours ranging from $55 to $95 per person. Or join a guided walk around the market, like the Adelaide Central Market Morning Tour and enjoy a generous portion of tastings and samplings.

However, you don’t need to sign up for a tour to taste the best of what the Market has to offer. Simply join the Market Traders every Thursday, Friday & Saturday for a sample of their produce ranging from a variety of cheese to fruits and desserts. The details of the small tastings schedule can be found here.

The Central Market is heavily influenced by the multicultural flavours of Adelaide. You are bound to come across some odd and wild things along with basic veggie stalls, sugary treats stalls and other offerings. There is even a section for gifts and clothing items. It’s like all of the Adelaide attractions rolled into one!

 

Despite our short stay, we really enjoyed our time at Adelaide Central Market. So whether you are passing by Adelaide or are staying for a while, consider visiting this vibrant South Australian “hot spot” for a taste of the freshest and the best this region has to offer.

Essential Travel Info for Visiting Adelaide Central Market

When to go

Adelaide Central Market is opened Tuesday to Saturday. For exact trading hours click here. There you can also find holidays and dates the market is closed on, and a map to help you navigate one of the most popular Adelaide attractions.

By the way, if you are looking for Sunday markets, Adelaide has a few good options worth checking out. The best is probably the Adelaide Farmers Market at the local showgrounds.

How to Get There

Adelaide Central Market is located on Gouger St in the heart of Adelaide city. The City to Bay Tram stops right on the doorstep in Victoria Square/Tarndanyangga.  Any city bound public transport will get you in the vicinity of Adelaide Central Market.

If you are driving, parking is conveniently located right above the Adelaide Central Market.

Have you been to the Adelaide Central Market? Share your stories in the comments below.