Mercado del Puerto

The Mercado del Puerto opened in 1868, right beside Montevideo's harbour, to serve the sailors and traders passing through the city. Its striking wrought-iron structure was manufactured in England and shipped across the Atlantic — a proud symbol of the era's industrial ambition.

Over time the fruit and fish stalls gave way to something the whole country now treasures: the parrilla. Under the great iron roof, dozens of grills burn wood and charcoal all day, filling the air with the smell of asado — Uruguay's beloved barbecue.

Today the market is as much a social ritual as a meal. Locals and visitors share long counters, order a chorizo or a grilled provolone, and toast with a medio y medio, a light sparkling wine born in this very building.