We headed to Arroios Marketplace to have lunch at a new fave of our's--sadly, it was closed--and to check-out the mercado (which we didn't explore the last time we ate at Pequeno Café). Alas, on a Friday late-morning, even the marketplace was only half full (if that!) of vendors. Many of the restaurant stalls (which line the perimeter of this circular structure with glass windows) were open, but with very little activity--workers killing time looking at their phones. (Bloop!) The entire indoor farmers' market was peculiarly devoid of customers, making for a very "hollow" sounding atmosphere in that high-ceilinged rotunda. That said, the produce, poultry, fish and butcher stalls that were open all looked fresh and wonderful. Still, though, we left mostly unimpressed by its morgue-like ambiance. Perhaps the weekends are more lively??? Unfortunately, we won't have time to return to the Mercado de Arroios anytime in the near future to perhaps see a different side, so it is what it is.... read more