Lewisham Model Market
Rome, Paris, New York, LEWISHAM.
Lewisham is ‘The European Capital of Vibes’ if the guys over at Model Market are to be believed. The sign that adorns the wall before you enter this melting pot of street food and good beer may be a little tongue in cheek, but it is representative of the shifting nature of South London into becoming one of London’s cultural hotspots.
Street food has taken over London and since this culinary revolution began in the capital new markets, warehouses and car parks serving up delicious grub are appearing everywhere and are a must try for anyone visiting London. Model Market is one of the smaller ones, but packs plenty of character, amazing food and a great atmosphere.
Set in an abandoned and well-loved covered market, Model Market first arrived in Lewisham three years ago and received a rather uncertain reception. However, since establishing itself as part of the furniture within the borough, Model Market is now a firm favourite with locals as well as foodies all around the capital who come through to enjoy grub from street food legends such as Mother Flipper and Bill or Beak. With open fire pits, locally sourced craft beers, Vinyl DJ’s and a rooftop terrace to catch the last of the summer rays, you can be forgiven for thinking you’ve gone to a festival rather than a market round the back of a shopping centre, such is the atmosphere. The crowd are friendly and approachable with plenty of people trading stories of what this place used to be like before it became the hipster hang out spot it now is.
Sadly, Model Market is only open in the summer months (April – October) but is 100% worth noting in the diary of any travel planner when thinking of things to do in London. Lewisham is located a 15 minute walk away from New Cross as well as having direct trains into central London and other great nightlife spots such as Peckham. So if you’re looking for a great place to grab and drink and something to eat before carrying on into the night or simply wanting to try some of the best food London has to offer, Model Market is a great place to start.