European-style street markets are slowly making a comeback in Buenos Aires. Although the San Telmo Market is one of the most historic, in the rest of the city we did not have this type of place with shops, restaurants and an interesting gastronomic proposal.
Precisely, the Mercat Villa Crespo is inspired by European markets. This is perceived not only in the shops and their layout inside the establishment, but also in the design of the market. In fact, the arrival of new vendors and restaurants only reinforces this European market imprint.
Below are some notes to help you get to know the Mercat Villa Crespo. From here, you will be the one to judge by attending the market and enjoying its products and food.
Mercat Villa Crespo (Buenos Aires): Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
What is the Mercat Villa Crespo?
Mercat Villa Crespo is a gathering place for chefs, passionate food lovers, and locals. It’s a market that spans 2,700 square meters, housing shops, restaurants, and bars offering a wide range of local and regional products across more than 15 categories.
The success of Mercat Villa Crespo lies in its unique combination of quality gastronomy, fair trade, and direct connection with local producers. It’s not just a gastronomic experience but also a cultural one, offering natural products, tastings, events, and entertainment with a modern urban design.
Market Layout
The market is spread across three floors, featuring a special area for selected local producers, an auditorium, and a foyer that hosts a variety of engaging content.
The market’s industrial aesthetic and contemporary urbanism make it a hub for entrepreneurs, workshops, and affordable yet high-quality products.
Cultural Fusion
Mercat Villa Crespo offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, including vegan options, Japanese and Korean cuisine, Italian dishes, Mexican food, and more. You’ll also find gluten-free options, specialty coffee shops, and stores focusing on specific products.
The creators of Mercat Villa Crespo aimed to recreate the European market experience, with the slogan “less supermarkets, more markets” capturing the essence of their mission.
Unique Shopping Experience
The market seeks to revive the relationship between vendors and customers that has been lost over time, emphasizing the importance of high-quality, non-mass-produced goods. It’s a place where food enthusiasts can discover new flavors and connect with the rich culinary culture of Argentina.
Where is the Mercat Villa Crespo located?
Mercat Villa Crespo is located at Thames 747, between Juan Ramírez de Velasco and Aguirre streets. Villa Crespo is a residential neighborhood that has seen growth in commercial and gastronomic areas, partly due to the high costs in nearby Palermo.
The market is just one block from Juan Bautista Justo Avenue, a major thoroughfare that connects Villa Crespo with Palermo. The area around Mercat Villa Crespo is also known for its outlet stores and shops, stretching from Corrientes Avenue to Plaza Armenia in the northeast.
How to get to Mercat Villa Crespo?
While Villa Crespo is not a tourist hotspot, it is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest subway line is the B Line, with stations at Malabia and Dorrego on Corrientes Avenue. However, both stations require a walk of about six blocks to reach the market.
Buses are a more convenient option, with several lines running through the area around Mercat Villa Crespo, including lines 19, 34, 55, 65, 71, 76, and 127.
Private Vehicle or Bicycle: You can also reach the market by car or bicycle. There are private parking options nearby, and the area is bike-friendly, with protected bike lanes.
Why visit the Mercat Villa Crespo?
Shop for Exclusive Products
The shops at Mercat Villa Crespo offer unique and artisanal products, with each store specializing in a specific ingredient or cuisine. From the best dulce de leche to specialty coffee, vegan products, and artisanal cheeses, you’ll find a variety of high-quality goods to enjoy.
Enjoy Delicious Meals
In addition to shopping, Mercat Villa Crespo is a great place to dine. You’ll find a wide range of restaurants and bars serving everything from Italian to Mexican cuisine. Arrive early to secure a table and take your time selecting your meal.
Experience the Ambiance
Even if you’re not planning to spend money, visiting Mercat Villa Crespo is highly recommended. The market’s design is inspired by European markets, with a mix of Asian influences from recent renovations. The thoughtful layout and unique atmosphere make it a great place to explore and soak in the local culture.
