From fish at Tokyo’s Tsukiji to the best cuts of meat in Barcelona, we got insiders to spill their secrets
The Tsukiji Fish Market – Tokyo
At 57 acres, this is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world, with over 2,000 tonnes of seafood going in and out every day, chefs racing to get their hands on the freshest produce and tourists from all over the world showing up to simply take it all in. Visit before it moves to a new location in Toyosu, in November this year.
Insider tip: “Make sure to check out Aritsugu, a 300-year-old Japanese knife shop, where you can get your name engraved on a knife. Say you’re friends of Muni san from Sri Lanka”
Spice Bazaar – Istanbul
Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this Fatih district market was constructed in the 17th century as part of a mosque. It was also part of the ancient Silk Route. You can find spices, saffron, caviar, dried fruit and even something called Turkish Viagra! When you’re tired, take a coffee break at the 100-year- old Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi.
Insider tip: “The Bazaar is home to the historic Pandeli restaurant, open since 1901. The classic Turkish dishes, such as ‘dönerli patlican borek’ (doner meat, eggplant and cheese pastry), iridescent blue Iznik tiles and photos of illustrious visitors bring to mind the 19th-century grandeur of Istanbul.”
Spice Bazaar – Istanbul