Grocery shopping in Mendoza can be an exciting adventure, especially if you go to Mercado Central (central market) in downtown Mendoza located on Ave. Las Heras and Patricias Mendocinas. Be prepared for an exciting crowded environment that allows for friendly conversation with locals.
As you make your way through the market, the robust smell of raw meat fills the air with a wide variety of beef, chicken, fish, pork and other game meats at every corner. No parts go to waste, as you are able to select anything from intestines to limbs. The occasional site of a whole gutted pig or bird carcass is not uncommon, and attention grabbing. Each stand has its own unique service from fresh produce, to picadas (bite size foods), to whole grains, seeds and nuts, to prepared meals; Mercado Central is truly a one-stop.
It’s best to take a few laps before purchasing anything so that you can get a feel for how the market is arranged and priced. International products are not always visible on display, but simply ask and the vendor will reach under the counter and grab whatever it is that you are looking for.