After more than two years of anticipation, Il Mercato Centrale officially opened on September 19, marking its first location outside Italy in the heart of Melbourne's CBD.
Building on its success in Florence, Milan, Rome and Turin, Il Mercato Centrale has become Melbourne's newest Italian culinary destination, offering a range of fun culinary experiences that transport visitors directly to Italy.
What sets Il Mercato Centrale apart from other markets and food halls is that 23 skilled artisans infuse the space with their own flair and authentic products, inviting Melbournians into a truly immersive experience. This is what we are focusing on.
“The goal was always to create more than just a food hub,” said Gary Patikis, general manager of Il Mercato Centrale.
We set out to build an immersive cultural destination where people can be enriched with the vibrant community and essence of Italy at Il Mercato Centrale, and we couldn't be more thrilled with the results It was.
Guests can sample fresh breads and pastries from il forno, cold cuts and cured meats from la carne ei salumi, handmade pasta from la pasta fatta in casa, and even smashburgers from lo smashburger, spread over two levels.23 You can explore a variety of food stalls.
The market is allowed to stay open until 3am and will feature a selection of Australian, New Zealand and Italian wines from Renoteca, as well as cocktails, spritzes and aperitifs from the cocktail bar.
“Each of our artisans brings something truly special to the table. Their dedication to quality and collaboration creates an unforgettable atmosphere,” Patikis said.
Founded in Florence in 2014 by Umberto Montano, Il Mercato Centrale transforms our culinary experience by focusing on craftsmanship and revitalizing the market's traditional role as a community gathering place. We changed the way we do it.
Visitors can purchase items from a variety of stalls to take home or enjoy in the 800 diverse seating options.
The space also hosts monthly artisan masterclasses and free community events in a dedicated events area.
“The hand skills, professionalism and dedication of the artisans who participated in Il Mercato Central Melbourne are outstanding and inspiring. “It's a common thread that unites Italy and Melbourne in a project that seeks to similarly unite them through the experience of fine dining,” Mr Montano said.
“Il Mercato Central Melbourne will become Australia’s largest Italian food market and with its vibrant cultural and culinary scene, Melbourne is undoubtedly the ideal location to launch such an ambitious project.”
il Mercato Centrale is located at 546 Collins St and is currently open Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to midnight. •
