CENTRAL MARKET

In a city where the streets sometimes seem a little too quiet, it’s a joy to walk into the hustle and bustle of Adelaide’s Central Market.

Located under one roof in the heart of the city since 1870, the market is a magnet to locals and tourists of all ages and nationalities.

Food rules here, with the 80 stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheeses, bakery items, meat, poultry, nuts and delicatessen products such as local olives and pasta.

But it’s not just the availability of a wonderful array of food; the atmosphere of the place, with its crowds, aromas, noise and colour, makes it special.

The market runs from Tuesday to Saturday and visitors can start their day with breakfast at one of its cafes, such as Lucia’s, a local institution since the 1950s.

Its home-style Italian cuisine ensures the establishment is usually busy.

Then stroll through the aisles inspecting, and no doubt buying, the multicultural offerings.

My favourites include a stall selling just mushrooms; another called The Smelly Cheese; health food store Goodies and Grains; and A Taste of Marrakech with its exotic spices and preserved lemons.

Musicians add to the vibrancy on Friday nights and Saturday mornings.

While most stalls sell fresh food, the market’s perimeter includes shops selling shoes, house products and variety goods and a cheap meal can be found in neighbouring Chinatown.

And if you still manage to have some energy left over, Adelaide’s Antique Market is well worth a visit at nearby 32 Grote St.

MARGARET SCHEIKOWSKI