Guest Author - Tania Nadarajan

Melbourne has some of the best markets around. From the biggest, to the loudest, or the cheapest, to the most exquisite, Melbourne’s many markets offer something for everyone. Well known for its market culture, markets are a good way to experience Melbourne and spend a leisurely afternoon.

This week, we feature the Prahran Market. First opened in 1864 and running ever since, Prahran Market claims to be Australia’s longest continually serving market.

Like any other market, Prahran Market is a hive of activity with market traders offering their varied and rich colour of fresh fruits and vegetables. Walking through, you get a wift of the sometimes pungent, sometimes mouth watering aromas from the deli shops with its cheese, stuffed olives, dips, smoked meats and freshly baked breads. In fact, the Prahran Market is reputed to have some of the best delis around. Free samples abound, so make sure you walk around, taste and check out the prices before buying. Into the fish and meat area, you will see fresh red tuna, prawns, salmon, and a huge range of neatly displayed meat. Walk elsewhere and there is the inviting smell of coffee, home made jams and sweet flowers. And if browsing around the market has left you tired, go to the stall that offers a rejuvenating massage at an affordable price.

What is distinctive about this market is its clean and efficient feel. No where is this more apparent than in the seafood area, which is always spotless and dry and where the staff are friendly, professional and always neatly attired in their uniform. The Prahran Market has lots of remarkable delis with good food, but my personal favourite is the fresh sushi from the seafood stalls. For $2.20 a roll, you get the freshest, most wholesome and generous serve of a meal.

Prices at this market are on the higher side. Being situated in South Yarra - a chic and sophisticated inner city suburb – it draws a richer, trendier crowd. Though more expensive, there is no doubt that you are paying for the finest and freshest.

It is also one of the most child friendly markets in Melbourne, which makes it an ideal choice for a family outing.

Go to the market square and you’ll see why it is such a child haven. The mini-playground and mini-carousel are both very popular with kids. There is an outdoor sitting area where you can have a cuppa or savour the gourmet delights, while keeping a watchful eye on your kids.

There is also free face painting for kids every Tuesday & Thursday (from 9.30am – 12.30pm) and Sundays (10.30am – 2.30pm). Just for a day, let them be anything they want –a princess, a pumpkin, a rat, a superhero…

Every Tuesday morning from 9.30am – 12.30pm, a Children’s Farm is set up at the Market Square. For just $3, your kids can get up close to farm animals and learn about them.

And if you go on a Sunday, from noon to about 3pm, you can enjoy live jazz performances that is entertaining for all.

If you like cooking and all things culinary, be sure to visit the Essential Ingredient Shop. It has everything from interesting condiments and sauces, to innovative cooking utensils, great tableware and an extensive range of gastronomic books by famous chefs.

And if you’re really serious about cooking, there are cooking tours as well as free cooking demonstrations from 12.30pm at the Market Square. Check their website for session dates but you will definitely pick up new recipes and healthy eating tips.

Location
163 Commercial Road, South Yarra 3141
Victoria, Australia

How to get there?
Tram: From Swanston Street, catch Tram No. 72 to Camberwell.
Alight at Stop No. 30, near Chapel Street.

Train: From Flinders Street, catch a train on the Sandringham Line.
Alight at Prahran Station.

Car: Melway Ref (Map 2L, H9). 600 parking spaces on Elizabeth Street and 1000 parking spaces on Cato Street.

Opening Hours
Tuesday (dawn to 5pm), Thursday (dawn to 6pm), Friday (dawn to 6pm), Saturday (dawn to 5pm) and Sundays (10am – 3pm).

Website
http://www.prahranmarket.com.au/