EAST LONDON: Broadway Market
Saturday markets, hip and trendy! I fell in love these sweet places of joy and delicousness when living in Florida in 2012. Getting fresh produce, munching on local favorites, and meeting friends along the way became our favorite thing to do. Before arriving in London I heard that Saturday markets are a complete thing. Hence, I asked my friend Abigail, who lives in East London and truly knows the best spots, to show me her favorite places and spaces.
Our first stop: Broadway Market. Located in Hackney and nestled in between pretty brick houses, this market is a true find, off the beaten path of London city center craziness. It meets you with a simple and rustic atmosphere, easily and quickly having your full attention drawn to the many food stalls. Walking to the end of the market to meet my friend and not already sneakily taste all the local treats was the hardest thing I did that weekend.
Not having seen Abigail for about 6 months I was super excited when I spotted her in between other Saturday-market-lovers, stylish and sweet, strutting down the street.
We started out our day early and quickly agreed that coffee was a necessary prerequesite to having a great day with each other. Her favorite cafe in East London, Climpson and Sons Coffee was ideal, just located at the end of Broadway Market. So much excitement and so much blabbing, it was only natural one of us had to drop her cup. It wasn't me. The barista at Climpson and Sons Cafe was just so sweet when we realized they were giving Abigail her second coffee for free. It really isn't hard to make someone's day.
After this sweet gesture we were ready to go explore the market stalls. We tried so many different things: Scotch eggs, different kinds of cheeses, pies, and more. The balsamic vinegar, from an Italian olive oil and balsamic vendor, tasted just like caramel, so I bought a bottle to bring back home with all the memories I had made that day.
What is your most favorite Saturday market in the world? I'm looking forward to get some great suggestions for my future travels around the globe. Because, isn't it simply best treat to get local advice?