Visitors have confirmed what South Australians already know - the Adelaide Central Market is one of the best food markets anywhere in the world.
Our local foodie haven has earned top-tier status in a new global ranking, coming third in the top 20 food markets list.
The result, published by travel insurer AllClear, was based on almost 400,000 traveller reviews across 100 popular locations worldwide.
An overwhelming 94.2 per cent of visitors gave the Adelaide Central Market a four or five-star review, reaffirming its standing as a true locals' market where the best in South Australian culture and food is on display.
Beating out Valencia's Mercado Central, Paris' Marché Bastille and New York City's Chelsea Market, the only two food markets ranked higher than Adelaide are London's Borough Market and Philadelphia's Reading Terminal Market.
The international recognition follows a hugely successful Gather Round weekend for the Market, with more than 105,000 visitors through the doors - up on last year's result.
Adelaide Central Market seafood trader, Si Sea, reported that Gather Round delivered their strongest weekend ever, with customer numbers and turnover beating previous records.
The global acclaim - and major event success - comes as the Market is set to double in size as part of the $600 million Market Square development, featuring iconic SA producers and brands including Never Never Distilling Co and Red Cacao.
The expansion is tipped to deliver a $135 million boost to the state's economy and support more than 750 new employees, while attracting more than 10 million visitors each year once completed by the end of 2026.
With over 70 traders currently under one roof, the Adelaide Central Market is one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the southern hemisphere and a must-see premier food destination.
Tourism Minister Emily Bourke said; "We've always known the Adelaide Central Market is a world-leading fresh food and produce market - and it's clear the world knows it too."
"Achieving this global ranking speaks to the passion and dedication of the South Australians behind the stalls, who welcome visitors with warmth and the best local food and beverage."
"The Market is a key tourism destination for our state, consistently featured in cruise itineraries, international travel guides and increasingly a must-see for visitors during major events like Gather Round."
Adelaide Central Market General Manager Fabienne Reilly added being recognised as having the third best market in the world right here in Adelaide is an extraordinary achievement.
"It's a testament to everything that makes Adelaide Central Market so iconic," he said.
"Our traders and community are the heartbeat of the Market and we're honoured to be ranked so highly on a global stage."
