Hoookay; I fall somewhere between Larissa G. and Ginger W. in their assessment of the Brunswick Centre Market.
First off, it's not a "market" so much as "prepared food stalls". So: out walking the dog and want to grab some hot, freshly fried churros to munch on? Come here. Wanting to get some of your next week's shopping out of the way, thinking that this is a traditional market? Oh, you'll be disappointed.
It's not all bad at the Brunswick Centre Market, however, and I think the reality is:
- I continue to be really impressed by the overhaul of the Centre, including the ample pedestrian seating options. Kids, dogs, there's a great hustle-bustle here
- I love the effort and thought behind a foodie/artisan market, even if execution isn't quite spot-on
...these are the things that have had me looping through Marchmont Street on three recent Saturdays.
That said, I can't pinpoint one thing I've munched on from the Market that I would make special effort to return for. The steamed veggie dumplings? Dry rubbery casings and tiny for their overpriced 2.50/6 price. The table of fairy cakes? Prettier to look at than to eat. I love the look of the massive pans of paella cooking, but I much prefer the offering at Borough Market to the Brunswick Centre option. To give a sense for other options: crepes, chorizo sandwiches, Indian food, pies and other savoury pastries, Middle Eastern dips and falafels.
Yelp note: maybe it's my sugar crash talking grumpily, but - despite my love for the environment of the Brunswick Centre Market - I'm just not enamoured by what is on offer (or the accompanying prices). That said, my Market strategy leans towards YOLO so...go 'head, try that chocolate chip cookie the size of your head and prove me wrong. read more