Gallery
The market in images
Montevideo · Ciudad Vieja · Uruguay
Gastronomic and cultural promenade since 1868
National Historic Monument · Rambla 25 de Agosto de 1825
Discover the marketHistory
Mercado del Puerto was born on 10 de octubre de 1868, inaugurated in the presence of President Lorenzo Batlle. It was the initiative of Spanish merchant Pedro Sáenz de Zumarán, quien encargó su estructura de hierro a ingenieros y talleres de Liverpool, Inglaterra.
What began as a market for fruits, vegetables and meats for ships in the bay, became over the years the gastronomic heart of Montevideo. Carlos Gardel, Enrico Caruso and writer José Enrique Rodó walked its interior streets.
Desde 1976 it became a National Historic Monument. Its glass roof and wrought iron arches make it one of the first large metal structures in South America.
"Within its walls, Gardel and Caruso crossed paths, Rodó had his coffee, and Figari found the light for his paintings. The Market is not just gastronomy: it is the living memory of Uruguay."
Gastronomy
The asado is the soul of the Market. Flank steak, short ribs, costillas, rump cap and sweetbreads slowly cooked over wood embers. Premium selected cuts, cooked to perfection.
The smoke, the sound of fire and the unmistakable aroma create an experience that goes far beyond food.
Main specialtyThe most iconic cut. Uruguayan sirloin on the grill, juicy and perfectly cooked.
Classic cutStraight from the Río de la Plata. Stews, calamari, sole and croaker on the grill.
From the riverPremium quality rib-eye. The favorite of connoisseurs, for its marbling and deep flavor.
Baby beefThe national sandwich: fine meat, egg, ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise. Icon of Uruguayan cuisine.
National dishFrench fries, fresh salads, blood sausage, chorizos and criolla sausage as the perfect accompaniment.
Side dishesRestaurants
More than a dozen restaurants and grills coexist under the historic iron roof and its surroundings.
Traditional · Ciudad Vieja
One of the classics of Mercado del Puerto. Traditional Uruguayan cuisine, family atmosphere and timeless warmth. Grill, pasta and daily specials that keep the essence of the market alive.
Founding family · over 40 years
Traditional grill in the heart of the market. Personalized service, premium quality cuts and generous portions. El padre inició el negocio hace más de cuatro décadas.
Desde 1975
Selected meats, fish and seafood in a spacious dining room. Located in the heart of the market, on Pérez Castellano between Piedras and the Rambla.
Parrillada & Pub
Full grill with tenderloin, rib-eye and rump cap. En el piso superior, "La Cueva del Oso Hormiguero", a multi-space pub to end the evening.
Lamb specialty
From grilled lamb to seafood grills. One of the favorite options for tourists and locals alike.
Market classic
Traditional Uruguayan atmosphere with gaucho-style asado. Extensive menu of meats and typical accompaniments.
Desde 1888 · the oldest
The oldest bar in the Market and creator of the "Medio y Medio", the emblematic drink of the place. Pure history in every glass.
Drinks
The iconic drink of Mercado del Puerto, invented at Bar Roldós in 1888. A masterful blend of sparkling wine and dry white wine that has accompanied every grill for over a century. No visit is complete without a "medio y medio".
Uruguay's star grape. Wineries from Canelones and other southern regions. Uruguayan Tannat has its own personality: robust, fruity and with long aging potential.
Pilsener, Patricia or local craft options. Perfect for summer days under the iron roof.
Uruguayan grappa with honey, classic digestif to end lunch. Strong, sweet and totally local.
Like José Enrique Rodó: a discreet, strong and very Uruguayan coffee. Century-old tradition in the market bars.
★ Sundays are the busiest days. It is recommended to visit between 11:30 and 15:00 to enjoy the best atmosphere and live music.
🌙 The exterior stalls on the Rambla and adjacent streets remain open until midnight, especially in summer and on weekends.
Rambla 25 de Agosto de 1825
Ciudad Vieja, Montevideo
República Oriental del Uruguay
Entre las calles Pérez Castellanos, Piedras y Maciel. Frente al Puerto de Montevideo.
View on Google Maps →Taxi or remis from the center: 5–10 minutes.
Hop On / Hop Off tourist bus: Ciudad Vieja stop.
Walking from Plaza Independencia: 15 minutes through Ciudad Vieja.
💡 International tourists: remember to present your passport to access the VAT refund (22%) in some venues.
Practical tips
To make the most of Mercado del Puerto, these tips will make the difference between a regular visit and an unforgettable experience.
The best time is between 11:30 and 15:00. On Saturdays you'll find live candombe music and the most authentic atmosphere.
With a foreign passport you can request a 22% VAT refund. Bring your ID when paying.
Market entry is free. Walk through the restaurants, check the boards and choose before sitting down. Cutlery is charged separately in several venues.
As in any busy tourist spot, keep your phone and wallet secure, especially on the outer streets.
The Market is the perfect anchor for a full day in Ciudad Vieja: Cathedral, Sarandí pedestrian street, Carnival Museum and the Rambla.
On weekends, musicians and street artists liven up the market with candombe, milonga and murga. Arrive early to get a spot.
Crafts & Culture
In the outer streets of the Market, craftsmen, antique dealers and troubadours create a vibrant market. You'll find everything from leather and ceramics to artworks and Uruguayan antiques.
On Sundays the market fills with street artists: candombe musicians, live painters and jugglers who make the walk a complete cultural experience.
Candombe
Arte & Pinturas
Cuero artesanal
Antigüedades
Gallery
Contact
Write to us for reservations, inquiries about venues, special events or any information about Mercado del Puerto.
Rambla 25 de Agosto de 1825
Ciudad Vieja, Montevideo, Uruguay
Lunes a Sunday · 9:00 – 17:00
Exterior hasta las 00:00