Rick Steves Recommends Mercado Bom Sucesso, Porto's Hidden Gem Food Hall

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Immerse yourself in the delightful city of Porto, Portugal, and discover one of Europe’s hidden foodie gems – Mercado Bom Sucesso. Renowned travel expert Rick Steves has deemed this bustling food hall as one of his favorite market halls in the world. With 47 restaurants serving an array of cuisines, from Japanese and Italian to Mexican and Mediterranean, the market offers a delectable dining experience for every palate. In addition to its diverse food offerings, Mercado Bom Sucesso hosts weekly events, live music, art exhibitions, and gastronomy workshops, creating a vibrant atmosphere that allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the local Portuguese culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore this iconic market, conveniently located near the top of TripAdvisor’s best things to do in Porto list, and indulge in a culinary adventure like no other.

Mercado Bom Sucesso: Porto’s Hidden Gem Food Hall

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Introduction to Porto and its food scene

Welcome to Porto, a charming city on the northwest coast of Portugal known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Porto is a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast, offering a delightful array of flavors and culinary experiences. From signature sandwiches like the francesinha to classic stews like tripas à moda do Porto, this lively city has something to satisfy every palate.

Rick Steves’ praise for Mercado Bom Sucesso

Renowned travel expert and writer, Rick Steves, has high praise for Porto’s food scene. On his blog, he declares Porto as home to “one of [his] favorite market halls anywhere.” While Steves doesn’t specify the exact market, it is highly likely he is referring to the famous Mercado Bom Sucesso.

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Overview of Mercado Bom Sucesso

Mercado Bom Sucesso is a hidden gem in Porto, known for its diverse food offerings and lively atmosphere. With 47 restaurants to choose from, the market is a food lover’s paradise. It not only offers delicious cuisine but also hosts weekly events and activities, making it a vibrant hub of cultural exchange.

Highlights of the market’s food offerings

Mercado Bom Sucesso is a melting pot of culinary delights. From Japanese cuisine to Spanish tapas, Italian classics, and Mexican snacks, you’ll find a diverse range of flavors as you explore the market’s bustling stalls. Some highly recommended shops and restaurants include O Forno Do Leitão Do Zé, known for its traditional local pastries and sandwiches, Mariscaria Bom Sucesso, a seafood and Mediterranean-inspired joint, My’Kai Poké Bowls, offering refreshing poke dishes, and Tacos & Tequila, a lively eatery specializing in authentic Mexican snacks.

Recommended shops and restaurants in the market

When visiting Mercado Bom Sucesso, be sure to check out the following popular spots:

O Forno Do Leitão Do Zé – This shop serves delicious traditional pastries and sandwiches. Don’t miss their famous local specialties.
Mariscaria Bom Sucesso – If you’re a seafood lover, this is the place to be. Indulge in fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes that will delight your taste buds.
My’Kai Poké Bowls – For a healthy and refreshing option, head to My’Kai Poké Bowls. Enjoy their flavorful and customizable poke bowls.
Tacos & Tequila – Craving Mexican cuisine? This vibrant restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic snacks and bites that will transport you to Mexico.

Weekly events and cultural activities at Mercado Bom Sucesso

Mercado Bom Sucesso is not just a place to enjoy great food; it also offers a range of weekly events and cultural activities. From live music and dance shows to theater performances, art exhibitions, and gastronomy workshops, there’s always something happening at this bustling market. Immerse yourself in Portuguese culture and experience the vibrant local lifestyle during your visit.

History and significance of Mercado Bom Sucesso

Mercado Bom Sucesso has been a beloved destination since its opening in 1952. Over the years, it has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. In fact, it currently holds the 11th spot on TripAdvisor’s list of best things to do in Porto, with over a thousand reviews. The market’s combination of restaurants, stores, a market, and a supermarket all under one roof makes it a unique and convenient destination for food enthusiasts.

How to get to Mercado Bom Sucesso

Mercado Bom Sucesso is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. If you prefer taking a bus, you can hop aboard bus numbers 204, 209, 902, 903, or ZM and get off near the market. If you’re arriving via subway, take the Blue, Red, Green, Purple, or Yellow Line and get off at Casa da Música Station. From there, it’s just a short five-minute walk to the market.

Operating hours of the market

Mercado Bom Sucesso welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. However, please note that some stalls and restaurants may have varying operating hours. For specific timings, it is always best to check the official website or contact the establishments you wish to visit.

Tips for visiting Mercado Bom Sucesso

When planning your visit to Mercado Bom Sucesso, here are a few helpful tips:

Explore the diverse food options: Take your time to wander through the market and discover the incredible range of cuisines on offer. Don’t be afraid to try something new and unfamiliar.
Attend the weekly events: Make the most of your visit by checking out the market’s weekly events and cultural activities. Immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the lively atmosphere.
Check the operating hours: While the market itself has set operating hours, individual stalls and restaurants may have their own schedules. Double-check the opening and closing times of the places you wish to visit to avoid disappointment.
Use public transportation: To avoid the hassle of finding parking, consider using public transportation when traveling to Mercado Bom Sucesso. Buses and the subway offer convenient options for reaching the market.
Bring cash: While many establishments may accept card payments, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or at stalls that may not accept cards.

With its diverse food options, lively atmosphere, and cultural richness, Mercado Bom Sucesso is an essential stop for any food lover visiting Porto. Experience the best of the city’s culinary scene while immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem food hall during your trip to Porto.

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