Residents of Modena (including myself when I took this photo) doing our daily shopping.
Mercato Albinelli – My local supermarket.
In the city center of Modena, just behind Piazza Grande, is Mercato Albinelli. Built in 1931 in the Art Nuveau style with a beautiful fountain and sculpture in the center. Mercato Albinelli is a bustling place where locals shop for produce, meats, fish, bread, and cheeses. If you want a truly local experience, the Mercato Albinelli is a great place to go in Modena.
One of my favorite stalls. They sell fresh locally sources cheeses and hand made pasta. Here you can find a bit of everything.
When and how to visit the market
While visiting Modena, I would suggest visiting just before lunch time. I know it may be dangerous going to the Mercato on an empty stomach but hear me out, there is a method to my madness…
Self Guided
If you are a traveler who likes to do your own thing, simply take a stroll through the market and take in the sights, smells and sounds. This place is a feast for the senses and an absolute pleasure to experience. After you have thouroughly explored the market and your tummy is rumbling, It is time for lunch.
There are a couple of restaurants that serve freshly prepared meat and fish dishes, charcuterie, local cheeses, fresh hand made pasta to die for and of course local vino. ( I suggest the lambrusco!) The place is easy going and full of Modenese on their lunch break. The dishes are simple and fresh.
Food Tours
There are many tour companies that offer food tours of Modena. Most of these tours will visit the market. There is a good tour given by a company called With Locals. I like the tour they are offering because not only will you tour and have lunch at the mercato but you will visit a parmigiano cheese factory and balsamic vinegar producer among other places.
Click here to view website: with locals
General Info:
Web site click here: Mercato Albinelli
Address:
via Luigi Albinelli, 13
Right behind piazza grande in the center of Modena
Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am to 3 pm
Saturdays from 7 am to 3 pm and from 4.30 pm to 7.30 pm
Restaurant opening time *
Mon-Sat 10 am to 2.30 pm
Wednesdays and Sundays also from 6 pm to 10 pm
Fridays and Saturdays also from 6 pm to Midnight
* These are pre-covid hours. as of 6/1/21 They are open for lunch only. I will update the hours as more info is available.