Ireland, with its romantic atmosphere amidst white clouds and green grass, is also a place that produces pure, natural delicacies. The abundance of natural food ingredients is just as impressive as its scenery. After immigrating to Ireland, as a seasoned foodie, how can you not be selective about your ingredients? What are you waiting for? Go and explore the two major local specialty food markets!
The English Market
Located in the city of Cork, County Cork, Ireland, the English Market is the most famous historic food market in Ireland. This is no ordinary market; with over two hundred years of history, the charming, antique-style English Market even attracted a visit from the Queen of the United Kingdom in May 2011. The market is extremely tidy and clean, with various shops organized in an orderly fashion. It offers everything from meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables to spices and other ingredients, and even features small cafes and traditional restaurants. Seeing acquaintances greeting each other in the market and weaving through stalls of fruits, meats, and condiments is the essence of daily life for the people of Cork. It is a great place to observe the daily lives of Cork residents and feel the pulse of the city.
St. George’s Market
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, St. George’s Market has been operating since the 1890s. It is the oldest indoor market in the area and one of the most historic attractions in Belfast. Formerly a meat market, it was renovated to sell fresh local ingredients and is now lined with stalls offering gourmet food and antiques, making it one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland today. Thanks to its specialty fresh produce, local products, and excellent atmosphere, St. George’s Market has won numerous local and national titles and awards, including the title of the UK's Best Large Indoor Market in 2014.