MyTent at Mercato Metropolitano
The foodiest of food pop-ups under a bespoke stretch tent
Just when you thought London was maxed out for amazing food, along comes Mercato Metropolitano: an Italian-inspired food hall that proves, in case anyone doubted it, that the Italians really are the masters when it comes to fresh produce and eating well. We joined them recently to install their brand new custom tent for their busy winter period.
If you’ve not discovered this giant food market yet, you’d be forgiven. Located just down the road from Elephant and Castle towards Borough, the former paper factory turned foodie paradise and community hub, is perfectly hidden off Newington Causeway.
But there’s far more to this giant food market than first meets the eye. Once you step off the street and into the warm glow of our 304m2 stretch tent, (a custom tent by MyTent made especially for Mercato) you’re immediately struck by the intimate and cosy vibes, even in this current freeze. It’s all festoon lighting, patio heaters and fluffy blankets, with a dishevelled bookshop stall adding a nice literary touch.
In fact, even this covered outdoor area (the main market hall lies just behind) has various nooks and crannies to explore, with street food stalls serving duck confit burgers, crèpes, and even some kind of leather craftsman service – all dotted around the central cocktail bar.
Beyond this outdoor area lies a labyrinthine world of food, drink and spaces for community events. With its own cookery school, urban garden, enoteca and cinema, this is more winter wonderland festival (minus the bratwurst and tinsel) than farmer’s market. And while it might be inspired by the great food halls of Milan and Turin, it’s still just a stone’s throw from the Ministry of Sound and the whole thing has a hint of edgy SE1 as a result. After all, this is London bbz.
All that said, food is definitely the main event at Mercato Metropolitano. Though Italian accented – with several gelaterias, wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta galore – this is very much a global set up. Raclette rubs shoulders with sushi and saucisson, while Vietnamese noodles, Mexican tacos and a seriously impressive Argentine grill all vie for your pound.
Like the look of Mercato’s custom stretch tent? Why not get in touch with us to find out more about our bespoke stretch tent design and management service.