Chef Guy Turland's guide to the world's best food markets

Based in Bondi, Aussie chef and TV host Guy Turland loves nothing more than discovering food markets around the world.

As a chef, travelling for me is all about food and flavours,” says  Guy Turland. The cookbook author and  restaurateur says he travels the world scoping out food, fish and farmers’ markets because they provide a genuine sense of what it’s like to be a local.

“Farmers’ markets are, at their core, crafted by locals for locals,” he says. “They offer a delightful peek into culture, cuisine and the changing seasons, and serve as a window into the heart of a community.

“Your senses go into overdrive – the enticing aroma of food wafting through the air, the vibrant colours of flowers and herbs, and the lively buzz of people all around. And let’s not forget the joy of getting to taste all the delectable treats on display.”

“There is no better way to truly dine like a local than visiting markets when travelling.”

Here, he shares his favourite markets to explore around the world:

Santa Monica Farmers Market, Los Angeles, USA

The Santa Monica Farmers Market in LA was my stomping ground for six years, and the ultimate source of inspiration. What captivates me is the abundance of young, enthusiastic farmers who are always experimenting with and cultivating new varieties, including heirloom, of fruits and vegetables. You can find in-season stone fruit, unique fresh berries not found elsewhere, and a plethora of mushrooms such as lion’s mane, fire morel, and chicken of the woods. It draws in food enthusiasts and chefs from all around the world.

Santa Monica Farmers Market, California.

La Vucciria markets, Palermo, Italy

La Vucciria markets in Palermo, Sicily, offers some of the finest street food experiences. There’s nothing quite like strolling through the markets with a cold beer in hand. The ambience is gritty, loud and lively, and the air is saturated with the enticing scents of barbecue smoke and delicious fare. The culinary offerings range from arancini to freshly cooked octopus and street food dish pani câ meusa, a sandwich made from boiled cow spleen, lung and trachea infused with lemon.

Street food stall at La Vucciria markets.

Makishi Public Market, Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa’s Makishi Public Market in Japan is also known as “Okinawa’s Kitchen”. It’s super-local, with next to no tourists, and I remember feeling so out of my comfort zone and loving every moment. The markets are wild with so many dishes and ingredients I’ve never seen before, such as sea grapes harvested from the islands of Okinawa, and dried smoked sea snake that’s cooked into the most amazing broth.

Makishi Public Market in Naha, Okinawa.

Baclaran Market, Manila, Philippines

I discovered the best pork adobo at Baclaran Market in Manila. It still lingers in my dreams. I was also introduced to the ugliest, yet most delicious, and potentially dangerous fish available: stone fish, sliced up fresh and served as sushi. The market stands as a testament to the intensity of Manila’s city life and its captivating food culture.

Baclaran street market in Manila.

Guy Turland’s travel highs and lows

Covid crush

I was in Milan to launch a restaurant with some local friends. We spent six months crafting the most exquisite space. On the day we were supposed to open, Milan went into Covid lockdown, so we had to go home without seeing the grand opening.

Harvest dive

During the filming of a series, I got to harvest and collect unique ingredients alongside locals in various corners of the globe. I went free-diving for abalone in Tasmania and rappelled down cliffs to gather percebes in Portugal. It was transformative and my wife’s presence added extra sweetness.

Originally published as Chef Guy Turland's guide to the world's best food markets