Prahran Market

Lonely Planet review

The Prahran Market has been an institution for over a century and is one of the finest produce markets in the city. Established in 1881 it provided an outlet for the area's small farms and market gardens. Back then, horses parked out the back and added to the rich odours. Through the '70s and '80s a man positioned in an enclosed box used an intercom to direct queuing cars. In the mid-'90s a gourmet food hall and a multilevel car park were added.

It goes without saying that there are numerous stalls stocking fresh seafood, deli items, meats, fruits and vegetables. The market is also home to the Essential Ingredient Cooking School (9827 9047; www.theessentialingredient.com.au), with workshops run by Melbourne's most lauded chefs and restaurateurs.