The World's Best Chefs Have Teamed Up On A Mouth-Watering, Affordable Spanish Mercado In New York City

New York City has always been a foodie paradise, but dining here typically comes with a price tag to match its reputation. The city's culinary scene operates on the assumption that exceptional food requires exceptional prices — and for the most part, diners have accepted that reality. While New York certainly has its share of affordable Michelin-starred restaurants, they remain rare exceptions to an otherwise expensive rule.

That's what makes Mercado Little Spain such a revelation. Located in the same part of town where you'll find the engineering marvel that is the Hudson Yards, this sprawling Spanish market brings together José Andrés — the chef, restaurateur, and humanitarian twice named to Time's list of the 100 Most Influential People — with Albert and Ferran Adrià, the brothers who revolutionized modern cuisine at their legendary elBulli. Together, they've created a place where you can experience their combined culinary genius without the fine-dining markup.

The concept draws inspiration from Spain's historic mercados: Bustling indoor markets with a maze of kiosks, bars, and sit-down spots where people gather over wine and conversation. Andrés envisioned recreating that authentic market experience, complete with the ingredients, recipes, and casual atmosphere that make these markets so central to Spanish life. Fortunately for New Yorkers (and anyone in the area wanting to experience a slice of Spain), he succeeded. The result is a 35,000-square-foot foodie paradise brimming with food stalls, bars, restaurants, and specialty shops that capture Spain's social energy right in the heart of Manhattan.

Stepping inside Mercado Little Spain feels like entering a Spanish village square, with winding pathways named after Spanish streets. The space can get packed as people clamber for spots at standing counters and bar stools scattered throughout the place, but despite the busyness, it doesn't take long to muscle through and place an order. While waiting, take a moment to admire the surrealist murals that decorate the space.

With so many options, the smart move is to start with the kiosks. These food stalls operate with impressive efficiency, turning out orders within minutes while maintaining quality. You can easily craft a meal for less than $20 by picking up items like a $6 cup of gazpacho served with breadsticks and finished with olive oil and sea salt at the Frutas & Verduras stand, or a quarter portion of tortilla (Spanish omelet) at Tortillas de Patatas for $5. For a sit-down experience, Spanish Diner is a good option. Positioned right at the complex entrance, it feels more connected to the street than the shopping center. Tables fashioned with glass tops over foosball games add playful touches, while the menu reads like a Spanish grandmother's repertoire. The patatas bravas come highly recommended as an appetizer, and the beef tripe stew with blood sausage and chickpeas is a must-try entrée. Save room for flan with whipped cream for dessert — which, as one Yelp reviewer noted with delight, is deliciously jiggly.

After, consider taking a stroll along The High Line, New York City's most scenic trail with unforgettable views. The walk offers prime people-watching and a fresh perspective on the city — perfect for digesting a big meal while soaking in Manhattan's atmosphere. You'll have earned every step.