Mercado Tirso de Molina
A bustling local market offering fresh produce and a surprising array of affordable international and traditional Chilean eateries on its second floor...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Mercado Tirso de Molina
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling local market offering fresh produce and a surprising array of affordable international and traditional Chilean eateries on its second floor.
"Discover incredible flavors and local life on the second floor of this vibrant market!"
Arrive Early for Best Selection
Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce by visiting the market early in the day.
Bring Cash for Purchases
Some vendors may have minimum spend requirements for credit card use, so cash is recommended.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Market / International / Chilean
Price
$
Phone
+56 2 2945 7000
Address
Av. Sta. María 409, Recoleta, Región Metropolitana, Chile
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Eateries on the Second Floor
Discover a global culinary journey with affordable international and traditional Chilean dishes on the bustling second floor.
Fresh Produce and Local Flavors
Stock up on vibrant fruits and vegetables at this lively market, offering a taste of local Chilean life.
Affordable Culinary Adventures
Enjoy incredibly budget-friendly meals, with some TikTok creators highlighting full lunches for around 4,000 pesos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Best Selection
Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce by visiting the market early in the day.
Bring Cash for Purchases
Some vendors may have minimum spend requirements for credit card use, so cash is recommended.
Compare Prices
Prices can vary between vendors; compare before you buy to ensure you get the best deal.
Explore the Second Floor
For a unique culinary experience, head upstairs for affordable international eateries.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Best Selection
Beat the crowds and get the freshest produce by visiting the market early in the day.
Bring Cash for Purchases
Some vendors may have minimum spend requirements for credit card use, so cash is recommended.
Compare Prices
Prices can vary between vendors; compare before you buy to ensure you get the best deal.
Explore the Second Floor
For a unique culinary experience, head upstairs for affordable international eateries.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mercado Tirso de Molina is praised for its fresh produce and affordable, diverse food options, especially on the second floor with international and Chilean cuisine. While some reviews note it's a more local and less touristy experience than its counterpart across the bridge, visitors should be aware of potential price variations and the need to be vigilant in the surrounding area.
"Some of the best food I’ve had in my few visits to Santiago on the 2nd floor. Wonderful flavors. Fresh fruit and vegetables on the 1st floor."
nick hardrict
"Flea Market style place. Mostly veggies and fruits. But you could find random other things like maybe clothes and shoes. Good place for tourists to see something different.
Just a very shady area SO BE VIGILANT!"
Adán García Borja
"fresh food market. prices can be had lower on the street but more variety is had here. some items not visible priced. I was quoted a higher price than the person before for blueberries. prices might seem good but they will have half or quarter on the price in small print."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
You'll find a wide range of fresh produce on the first floor. The second floor offers a variety of international and traditional Chilean eateries, including Peruvian-Asian fusion and Thai food.
Visiting early in the day is recommended to avoid crowds and get the best selection of fruits and vegetables.
Some shops may have minimum spend requirements for credit card use, so it's advisable to bring cash.
Prices for produce are generally slightly cheaper than at supermarkets, but it's wise to check around as they can vary between vendors.
While the market itself offers great food and produce, some reviews mention that the surrounding area can be shady, so it's advised to be vigilant.
Mercado Tirso de Molina is described as a calmer, cleaner, and slightly more local version compared to the bustling Mercado Central.
Mentioned in
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The 10 Best Restaurants in Santiago to Try Local Chilean Cuisine
If you’re in for a true off-the-beaten-path “Anthony Bourdain-type” experience, head up to the second floor of the Tirso de Molina market. What at first seems to be just another spot to stock up on local produce, is also home to a variety of affordable international eateries. Just up the stairs, you’ll find everything from traditional Chilean and Peruvian-Asian fusion to artisanal cafés, sweet shops and some of the best Thai in the city!
Where to eat cheaply in Santiago
Known as La Vega’s “little sister” market, Tirso de Molina is a covered fruit and vegetable market located just down the road from the larger La Vega market. This market is great for picking up some fresh fruit and veg, especially if you’re not feeling quite up to the chaos of La Vega!
5 Market Tour of Santiago
Tirso de Molina was a Spanish Baroque dramatist, poet and Roman Catholic monk. For reasons I can’t explain, the eponymous market was named after this historical figure. Tirso de Molina is a calmer version of the Vegas - it’s just slightly quieter and a touch cleaner.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit