San Telmo is one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods and a living tapestry of Argentina’s past and present. Known for its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and thriving art galleries, San Telmo captures the spirit of Buenos Aires like no other district. At its heart lies the San Telmo Market (Mercado de San Telmo), an indoor market teeming with history, culture, and local flavor that makes it a must-visit destination.
This weekly market offers a vibrant blend of antique vendors, street food, and local artisans, drawing visitors seeking an authentic experience in Argentina. Just around the corner, Plaza Dorrego comes alive each Sunday with the renowned San Telmo Street Fair (Feria de San Telmo), adding to the area’s appeal as the best place in Buenos Aires for lovers of antique treasures, tango dancers, and unique souvenirs.
About The Market
The San Telmo Market was built in 1897 during Argentina’s Belle Époque, and its metal columns and grand architectural style have been preserved to this day. Located near Calle Defensa and Plaza de Mayo, the market’s distinctive indoor space showcases classic iron and glasswork, with natural light streaming in, creating an inviting ambiance for visitors. Originally constructed as a traditional food market for the neighborhood, it has evolved into a cultural hub where locals and tourists alike gather to explore a mix of food stalls, antique shops, and a new wave of artisanal offerings.
While many come to admire the antique shops and unique market stalls, others are drawn by the fresh food and vibrant street scene. As you wander through, you’ll encounter local artisans, leather goods vendors, and art galleries, reflecting San Telmo’s creative spirit. The market embodies the city’s rich heritage, blending Buenos Aires’ historical roots with a fresh, contemporary vibe that makes it one of the best markets in Buenos Aires.
Most Known Vendors
1. Mundo Beat
Central area within San Telmo Market, Mundo Beat is a treasure trove for collectors and those nostalgic for past decades. This quirky stall offers a fascinating mix of vintage items, from collectible records to pop-style lamps, retro clocks, and even 1980s board games. It’s a true journey back in time, capturing the essence of past eras with a unique twist.
Visitor Tips: Come ready to explore—you may find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss their rare record collection.
2. La Papelera Contemporánea
Near the main aisle, La Papelera Contemporánea is a beautiful stationery shop offering an array of unique items, from elegant envelopes and specialty papers to decorative candles, notebooks, and art prints. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for a meaningful, artistic souvenir from Buenos Aires.
Visitor Tips: This shop is perfect for finding small, lightweight gifts and mementos. Stationery fans will find plenty to inspire them here.
3. La Carnicería de Ángel y Luis
In the stall 54, La Carnicería de Ángel y Luis is one of the market’s longest-standing butcher stalls. The Arribas brothers have maintained a loyal customer base, known for their warm service and high-quality meats. In a time when supermarkets have taken over much of the meat trade, this stall preserves a personal touch that has made Ángel and José Luis friendly faces for locals.
Visitor Tips: Stop by to see a slice of local life, even if you’re not buying. If you are, the brothers will gladly recommend the best cuts for an Argentine barbecue.
4. El Patio de Atrás
Inside the market, tucked in a quieter corner, a small but charming antique shop, El Patio de Atrás transports visitors to a different era with its unique collection of items from yesteryear. Expect to find vintage picture frames, typewriters, retro TVs, old-fashioned tableware, and more. With a nostalgic feel, as if stepping into someone’s carefully preserved attic. It’s a peaceful retreat within the market, filled with hidden treasures from Argentina’s past.
Visitor Tips: Early morning visits are best for browsing without the crowds.
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Culinary Highlights
1- El Hornero
El Hornero is celebrated for its freshly baked empanadas. These empanadas are cooked in a traditional oven, offering a delicious and authentic taste of Argentina’s culinary heritage.
Visitor Tips: We recommend the empanadas of carne cortada a cuchillo, wich is a sweet meat empanada.
2- Nuestra Parrilla
From the southeast corner, Nuestra Parrilla is one of the market’s most beloved restaurant, serving up Argentina’s best street food, including choripán (grilled sausage in a crusty roll) and steak sandwiches.
Visitor Tips: Nuestra Parrilla can be busiest around lunchtime, so plan to arrive early for a more relaxed experience. Don't miss the house chimichurri for an extra burst of flavor!
3- Coffee Town
At the northern section, near the central court, Coffee Town has made a name for itself as a leading spot for specialty coffee in San Telmo. Known for its globally sourced beans, it’s a go-to for coffee lovers looking to sample expertly brewed lattes and espressos.
Visitor Tips: Coffee Town tends to be quieter in the afternoons, making it an ideal time for a relaxing coffee. Ask about their seasonal coffee options to try something unique.
4- Choripanería
In the number 2 store, La Choripanería offers a variety of high-end choripanes, from the Patagónico with lamb chorizo, mushrooms, arugula and dried tomatoes to the Blue, accompanied by blue cheese, and a variety of premium meat sandwiches (Bondiola, Picaña) to complement with a touch of spontaneous and original flavour.
Visitor Tips: You can check their menu here.
An Essential Stop for Buenos Aires Visitors
San Telmo Market provides a unique blend of history, food, and vibrant local culture that captures the essence of Buenos Aires. If you are interested in getting to know the San Telmo neighborhood in depth, take a San Telmo tour. In just three hours, this tour takes visitors through five restaurants and historic sites, showcasing San Telmo’s rich flavours and unique atmosphere.