A Quick Guide to Medellín's Mercado del Rio 

TLDR? Mercado del Rio is a huge gastro market in Medellín where you can grab a bite to eat!

Mercado del Rio is one of the city’s tastiest attractions. Here you can choose from over 30 restaurants, as well as a handful of bars and cafes.

In addition to the gourmet cuisine, the gastro market hosts concerts, dance performances, city events, speaking events, and more. 

However, that’s just scratching the surface. Let’s take a deep dive into this unique place and learn more about what makes it such an amazing part of Medellín!

History of Mercado del Rio

Mercado del Rio opened in October 2016 and was inspired by international markets in other major cities.

Housed in an old soap warehouse from the late nineteenth century, this contemporary gastro hall was thoughtfully designed to maintain the old-world charm of its original structure. 

Much more than a foodie paradise, the venue coordinates with creatives and thinkers around the city to help curate cultural events for their patrons on a regular basis. 

Inside the Market

No matter what type of atmosphere you’re looking for, this modern indoor market has something for you. Step inside, and you’ll find restaurants, bars, cafes, and coworking spaces.

Restaurants  

If you are planning a trip visit to Mercado del Rio, make sure you bring your appetite. This attraction is home to an array of top-notch eateries that feature international cuisines. Travel to Peru, Spain, Japan, and India by walking through the sea of food stalls. 

Most of the dining options at this gastro hall would be classified as casual dining. Once you’ve chosen where to eat, simply walk up, order your food and wait for them to bring it out.

From there you can sit at any of the tables set up on the main floor. Some of the restaurants will bring your food to your table, but it is mostly cafeteria-style. 

If you share my sweet tooth, you can satisfy your craving with your choice of baked goods, ice creams, waffles, cheesecakes, and more. For truly decadent desserts, check out their boutique sweets shop, Alfamore. 

Bars

Once you have finished eating, wash it down with some wine, beer, or a nice cocktail. The market includes a wine bar, sports bar, cocktail bar, and cervecería (bar specializing in beer). 

Unlike their more laid-back dining space, the bars at Mercado del Rio provide a more upscale experience.

For example, you can enjoy a handcrafted drink and music on the terrace at Finestre. Located on the second floor, this sleek cocktail joint and restaurant has the perfect late-night ambiance. 

For wine lovers, Enoteca del Rio is where you need to be. In addition to a well-stocked wine menu, the bar hosts events led by wine connoisseurs. 

Throughout the week, the bars at the market offer happy hour deals, so check their social media pages. 

Events

One of the main draws of this bustling venue is the events. If you go to the market on the weekends, you’re sure to catch cultural events, educational talks, and artistic performances—particularly live music. 

The food hall doesn’t only host events during the weekend but keep an eye on its social media to see what’s happening that week. 

While many places close during the holidays, Mercado del Rio organizes activities for all ages and is very family-friendly. 

Coworking Space

Nestled among the many bars, restaurants, and food stalls at Mercado del Rio is Cafe Cowork Mercado, the market’s coworking cafe. Here you can enjoy strong coffee, freshly baked pastries—and, most importantly, free WiFi. 

If you’re an avid coffee drinker, you will be delighted by their exceptional selection of beans, which are produced right here in Colombia. 

How to Get There 

The centrally-located Mercado del Rio sits just a few miles south of the city’s downtown area. It is easily accessible by public transportation, whether you are taking the metro or the bus. 

It’s an easy five-minute walk from the Industriales station to the market for those taking the metro. If you come by bus, you can jump off at the stop around the corner on Avenida de Los Industriales.

Driving to this location is not recommended. There is only paid parking offered and limited parking spots available. If you don’t want to take public transportation, take a taxi or rideshare.  

Address: Cl. 24 #48-28, Medellín, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Spend an Afternoon at Mercado del Rio

Mercado del Rio is a food-lover’s paradise with such a wide selection of cuisine. Whether you want to grab a quick bite or enjoy an evening on a terrace, you can find what you’re looking for at this grand gastro hall.

If you like this blog, you might like our Casacol Instagram page to keep up with all the new articles. Anything we need to update or correct? Care to contribute? Email us at blog@casacol.co.