Mercado de Peixe São Pedro
Niterói's iconic seafood market, offering the freshest catch and a unique 'select and cook' dining experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest catch, fewer crowds
Mercado de Peixe São Pedro
Best Time
Freshest catch, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Niterói's iconic seafood market, offering the freshest catch and a unique 'select and cook' dining experience.
"The best fish in Rio de Janeiro state...select your fish downstairs, then have it cooked upstairs. No regrets!"
Choose Your Own Adventure
Pick your seafood downstairs, then take it upstairs to be cooked. It's the ultimate fresh seafood experience! :fish:
Early Bird Gets the Best
Arrive early for the widest selection of the freshest fish and seafood. :sunrise:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fresh Catch
Ground Floor
Select from an abundant variety of the freshest fish and seafood, straight from the ocean.
Upstairs Dining Experience
Second Floor
Enjoy your chosen seafood expertly prepared at one of the market's renowned restaurants.
Mario's Famous Cold Mug
Restaurant Area
Experience a local tradition with a perfectly chilled beer at Mario's, a spot with decades of history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fresh Seafood & Culinary Delights
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Own Adventure
Pick your seafood downstairs, then take it upstairs to be cooked. It's the ultimate fresh seafood experience! :fish:
Early Bird Gets the Best
Arrive early for the widest selection of the freshest fish and seafood. :sunrise:
Friendly Vendors
Don't hesitate to ask vendors for recommendations; they're known for being friendly and helpful. :smiley:
A Niterói Landmark
This market is a beloved spot, even elected one of Niterói's 7 Wonders. :star:
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Own Adventure
Pick your seafood downstairs, then take it upstairs to be cooked. It's the ultimate fresh seafood experience! :fish:
Early Bird Gets the Best
Arrive early for the widest selection of the freshest fish and seafood. :sunrise:
Friendly Vendors
Don't hesitate to ask vendors for recommendations; they're known for being friendly and helpful. :smiley:
A Niterói Landmark
This market is a beloved spot, even elected one of Niterói's 7 Wonders. :star:
Great Value
Enjoy excellent quality seafood at good prices, making it a top spot in the region. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mercado de Peixe São Pedro for its incredibly fresh, high-quality seafood and excellent value. The 'select and cook' system is a highlight, allowing diners to enjoy their chosen catch prepared expertly. While the market can get busy, the friendly vendors and delicious food make it a memorable culinary destination.
"nice place was clean and the vendors I talked to were very friendly the cooks took their time and the results were great"
Landon Lucchesi
"A landmark of Niteroi with plenty of booths selling excellent quality sea food and several restaurants in the second floor with good price. A fun to visit."
L H Silva-Clark (Tupinambah)
"Fish is good quality. First floor is fresh fishmarket. Second floor is bars and restaurants."
Nana Kufuor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is conveniently located in the heart of Niterói, just 800 meters from the ferry terminal (barcas). You can easily reach it by car, taxi, or public transport. Many visitors find it accessible via the ferry from Rio de Janeiro, followed by a short walk or quick ride.
While street parking can be challenging, there are often paid parking lots nearby. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Taking the ferry from Praça XV in Rio de Janeiro to Niterói is a popular and scenic option. From the Niterói ferry terminal, it's a short walk or a quick taxi/app ride to the market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Mercado de Peixe São Pedro itself is generally free. You only pay for the seafood you purchase or the meals you eat at the restaurants.
The fish stalls (peixarias) are typically open daily from around 6 AM to 5 PM, though they may close earlier on Mondays (around 3 PM). The restaurants usually operate from 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM, with slightly different hours on Mondays. It's always a good idea to check their specific hours before visiting.
There is no admission fee to enter the Mercado de Peixe São Pedro. You can browse the stalls and soak in the atmosphere without charge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find an incredible variety, including fresh fish like sea bass and snapper, shrimp, lobster, oysters, crab, and much more. The selection is vast and depends on the day's catch. 
You choose your fresh seafood from one of the many stalls on the ground floor. Then, you take your selection to one of the restaurants on the second floor, where they will prepare it for you.
While the market is primarily focused on seafood, some restaurants might offer a few non-seafood dishes or sides. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant you choose.
Prices are generally considered good, offering excellent value for the quality. You can find fresh seafood at competitive rates, and restaurant meals are also reasonably priced for the experience.
Absolutely! The ground floor is dedicated to fishmongers selling fresh seafood, perfect for taking home to prepare your own meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the vibrant stalls, fresh seafood displays, and bustling atmosphere make it a very photogenic spot. Capture the colors and energy of this iconic market.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it easier to get clear shots. However, the lively midday atmosphere also provides great candid photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is seafood, many restaurants offer simpler preparations or sides that can appeal to younger palates. Consider visiting during weekday mornings for a less crowded and more manageable experience with children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even dining at the upstairs restaurants offers great value, as you're paying for the freshness and the experience. To save even more, consider sharing larger seafood dishes or opting for simpler preparations. The proximity to the ferry terminal also makes it an accessible and affordable outing from Rio de Janeiro.
💑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Tradition: The History of Mercado de Peixe São Pedro
+1The market houses over 37 fishmonger stalls, a greengrocer, a cod specialist, and a materials shop, creating a vibrant ecosystem for fresh produce and culinary experiences. This long-standing tradition ensures that visitors can expect authentic flavors and a genuine taste of local life.
Today, the market continues to thrive, offering a unique 'select and cook' experience where visitors can choose their own fresh seafood and have it prepared by skilled chefs in the upstairs restaurants. This direct connection to the source of the food is what makes the Mercado de Peixe São Pedro a must-visit for seafood aficionados.
The 'Select and Cook' Experience: Your Seafood Journey
Once you've made your selection, you can either take it home or, more popularly, bring it upstairs to one of the market's restaurants. The chefs will then prepare your chosen seafood to perfection, often grilled, fried, or in a flavorful stew, allowing you to savor the freshest ingredients.
This interactive approach ensures you get exactly the seafood you desire, cooked just the way you like it. It’s a culinary adventure that connects you directly with the bounty of the sea and the skill of local cooks.
Beyond the Fish: Exploring the Market's Offerings
This makes it a comprehensive stop for those looking to experience the local food culture. Beyond the shopping, the market is a social hub. The restaurants on the second floor are not just places to eat but also to gather and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to enjoy good food and good company.
Don't miss out on trying a 'caneco gelado' (cold mug) of beer, a tradition at places like Mario's, which has been serving patrons since 1969. It’s these little touches that add to the unique charm and historical significance of the market.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit