Food markets have long been a staple in Europe, but the popular Platea in Madrid’s upscale Salamanca neighborhood has taken food markets to new heights. Located in a converted movie theater, Platea is a food lover’s wonderland, with over a dozen gourmet food establishments operated by top chefs, as well as a restaurant by acclaimed chef, Ricard Camarena. The chefs behind the food establishments at Platea have a total of 6 Michelin stars among them, an indication that this is no ordinary food market. Opened in 2014, Platea has become a destination that draws gourmands and foodies from around the world.
Platea is located in a space that used to be a movie theater. It occupies 62,000 sq. ft. over 5 floors of the building, and there is an atrium in the center of the space that allows you to see the floors above. On the entry level floor you will find vendors offering a variety of Spanish tapas and food, including oysters and Jamon Ibérico. On the lower level you will find foods from around the world, including Mexican, Peruvian, Japanese and Italian. The beauty of Platea is that each person can select food from the vendors they prefer, find a table in the open seating area and enjoy a meal together.
If you prefer a sit down meal at a restaurant, then you can try Canalla Bistro Madrid. Chef Ricard Camarena brings his creative, eclectic and “no rules” style of cooking to Madrid, following on the success of his Canalla Bistro restaurants in Valencia and Mexico City. After your meal you can go one level up to the cocktail bar El Palco and enjoy an after dinner drink.
While food is what draws people to Platea, live entertainment is also offered and takes place on a stage that is perched above the entry level floor. There are also a number of cocktail bars and a variety of gourmet shops that sell everything from food to cookware.
- Calle Goya, 5-7
- Madrid, Spain
- Phone: +34 (91) 577 00 25
- Website: Platea
Photo credit: © Christopher Pappas · All rights reserved.
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