SPG.com
I always say, one of the best ways to get to know a place and a culture is through its market, and the English Market in Cork is no exception. With a wide variety of both local and international foods, it's the perfect place to start one's exploration of Ireland's second largest city — and it's an easy trip over from the Sheraton Fota Island Hotel & Spa.
The covered market dates to the 1786 and is home to dozens of butchers, fishmongers, vegetable and fruit stands, bakeries — as well as cafés, chocolatiers, boutiques and gift shops. Although it is a popular tourist destination, the English Market is very a part of most residents' daily or weekly routines, where they do their own shopping alongside local chefs. You'll find more Irish and Cork specialties, such as tripe with drisheen (black pudding) or kaisler, as well as some of the freshest fish anywhere.
Climb to the second floor a lovely lunch on the balcony overlooking the market at Farmgate Café and Restaurant, which, naturally, gets all of its food from the vendors downstairs. Highly rated and affordable, it's an excellent place to rest your feet awhile and have a snack.
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