One of South Australia’s worst-kept secrets is officially out. The Adelaide Central Market has been named one of the best food markets in the world, and any foodie, tourist or local who has walked through this treasure trove of all things delicious would not be surprised why.
In a new global ranking curated by travel insurer AllClear Travel Insurance, the iconic destination has received an impressive third place in a list of the top 20 food markets worldwide.
The ranking was based on almost 400,000 traveller reviews across 100 markets globally, with a huge 94.2 per cent of visitors giving Adelaide Central Market a four or five-star rating. While rare, this kind of consistency speaks volumes about what’s happening inside those historic red-brick walls.
Only Borough Market in London and Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market ranked higher, with Adelaide beating out other iconic foodie destinations like Valencia’s Mercado Central, Paris’ Marché Bastille and New York City’s Chelsea Market.
“Being recognised as the third best market in the world right here in Adelaide is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to everything that makes Adelaide Central Market so iconic,” shared Adelaide Central Market General Manager Fabienne Reilly. “Our traders and community are the heartbeat of the Market, and we’re honoured to be ranked so highly on a global stage.”
The recognition comes off the back of a massive AFL Gather Round weekend, which saw more than 105,000 people stroll through the Market’s doors, an increase on last year’s already huge turnout. Traders felt the impact in a big way. Local seafood favourite Si Sea reported its biggest weekend ever, smashing previous records for both customer numbers and sales. And it’s only getting bigger.
The Market is currently preparing for a major transformation as part of the $600 million Market Square development, which will see the precinct nearly double in size. The expansion is set to bring in a lineup of high-profile South Australian names like Never Never Distilling Co and Red Cacao, alongside new retail, hospitality and community spaces.
Once completed by the end of 2026, the project is expected to bring $135 million into the state’s economy, create more than 750 jobs, and attract 10 million visitors each year.
This new era is a big leap for a market that already punches well above its weight. With more than 70 traders under one roof, Adelaide Central Market is one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the southern hemisphere, and arguably one of the most loved.
“Achieving this global ranking speaks to the passion and dedication of the South Australians behind the stalls, who welcome visitors with warmth and the best local food and beverage,” shared South Australia’s Minister for Tourism Emily Bourke. “The Market is a key tourism destination for our state, consistently featured in cruise itineraries, international travel guides and increasingly a must-see for visitors during major events like Gather Round.”
So as our beloved Central Market gets the recognition it deserves, there’s no better time to head down and enjoy it. With free face painting for kids every Saturday, free live music every Friday night, and pop-up events, wine nights, school holiday workshops and more, there’s always something to keep the whole family happy at the markets.
To see what’s on at the Adelaide Central Markets, click here.
