Mercado Novo - Colorful painted stairs with graffiti art inside a building.
1 / 10

Mercado Novo

4.4
·14k reviews·, Brazil

A vibrant hub blending historic industrial charm with a trendy scene, offering diverse food, drinks, and unique local designer shops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Mercado Novo - Colorful painted stairs with graffiti art inside a building.

Mercado Novo

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub blending historic industrial charm with a trendy scene, offering diverse food, drinks, and unique local designer shops.

4.4
(14k reviews)

"One of the coolest and most unique mall / galleries l have ever seen. Incredible food, a scene, so many places to drink."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Beyond Food

Don't just eat! Browse the unique shops for local fashion and crafts. :shopping_bags:

💰 Watch Your Budget

Prices can be a bit high. Consider happy hour deals or sharing dishes. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Food & Drink Scene

Vibrant Food & Drink Scene

Throughout the market

A diverse array of eateries and bars offering everything from local Mineiro cuisine to craft beers.

Unique Local Boutiques

Unique Local Boutiques

Various shops within the market

Discover modern fashion, graphic design, and handcrafted goods from local designers.

Historic & Chic Atmosphere

Historic & Chic Atmosphere

Market halls

Experience the blend of historical architecture with a contemporary, trendy ambiance.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Prices

Mercado Novo is a trendy spot, but can get pricey and crowded. For a more relaxed vibe and potentially better deals, consider visiting during off-peak hours. Some Redditors note that prices can be high, so planning your visit time might help you find a more enjoyable experience.

Explore Beyond the Food

While known for its food and drinks, Mercado Novo also houses unique shops featuring modern fashion, local designers, and handcrafted items. Don't miss the chance to browse these creative spaces, even if you're primarily there to eat.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, all shops open
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

O que tem pra fazer no Mercado novo? E em BH no geral?

🎯 Explore Beyond Food

Don't just eat! Browse the unique shops for local fashion and crafts. :shopping_bags:

💰 Watch Your Budget

Prices can be a bit high. Consider happy hour deals or sharing dishes. :moneywithwings:

reddit.com

O Mercado Novo é legal mas qual outro lugar pra sair, socializar e beber um pouco?

reddit.com

1 week in Belo

⏰ Visit During Operating Hours

Some shops might be closed at certain times. Check hours before you go. :clock1:

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Mercado Central

It's a short 10-minute walk from the Mercado Central. :walking:

reddit.com

Two weeks in BH, recommendations?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Beyond Food

Don't just eat! Browse the unique shops for local fashion and crafts. :shopping_bags:

💰 Watch Your Budget

Prices can be a bit high. Consider happy hour deals or sharing dishes. :moneywithwings:

⏰ Visit During Operating Hours

Some shops might be closed at certain times. Check hours before you go. :clock1:

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Mercado Central

It's a short 10-minute walk from the Mercado Central. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(14k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mercado Novo is a highly recommended spot in Belo Horizonte, praised for its unique atmosphere, diverse culinary offerings, and trendy shops. Visitors love the blend of historical architecture with a chic, modern vibe, making it a great place to hang out, eat, drink, and shop for local designs. While generally well-received, some find the prices a bit high, and it can get crowded during peak times.

"Very nice place for hanging out and have drinks and nice Mineiro food. Really good surprise! 😁

You can also shop for modern and alternative fashion items. However, eating should be the focus at this lovely place."

H.S. Fernandes

"One of the coolest and most unique mall / galleries l have ever seen. Historical / grungy / chic incredible food, a scene, so many places to drink, and local designers clothes. Spent hours."

Davi Santos

"A amazing place to visit. Lots of small shops with amazing products. It’s totally worth to visit and visualize the reality. The shop are of different varieties; fruits and vegetables, meat , house hold accessories, graphic design, food, beverage, shopping and more. When I visited; most of the shops were closed. I guess I visited at wrong time. If all the shops are functioning; then it would be incredible to visit."

Gautama Reddy

What People Like

Unique historic-chic atmosphere
Diverse food and drink options
Local designer shops

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mercado Novo is conveniently located in the city center, about a 10-minute walk from Mercado Central. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport. Parking can be challenging in the downtown area, so consider public transit or ride-sharing for a smoother experience. Reddit

Yes, several bus lines serve the downtown area near Mercado Novo. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Reddit

From Confins International Airport (CNF), you can take an airport bus, a taxi, or a ride-sharing service directly to Mercado Novo. The journey can take around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Street parking is limited and often metered. There are paid parking garages nearby, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Reddit

If you're visiting Mercado Central, it's a very short and pleasant 10-minute walk. It's also within walking distance of other downtown landmarks.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Mercado Novo is generally free. You only pay for the food, drinks, and items you purchase from the vendors and shops. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, especially for individual shops. Generally, the market is open from late morning into the evening. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most current hours, as some places may close earlier than others. Reddit

Most shops and food stalls are typically open during weekday evenings and weekend afternoons. Visiting during these times ensures you'll experience the full vibrancy of the market. Reddit

While general entry is free, special events or live music performances might have a separate cover charge. Keep an eye on their announcements for event-specific details.

Policies regarding pets can vary. It's advisable to check with the market management or individual vendors beforehand if you plan to bring a pet.

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Mercado Novo offers a fantastic variety of food, including traditional Mineiro dishes, international cuisine, craft beers, and more. It's a great place to sample local flavors. Reddit

Some visitors find the prices to be on the higher side, reflecting its trendy status. However, many also feel the quality and experience justify the cost. Reddit

You'll find a mix of boutiques selling modern and alternative fashion, local designer clothing, graphic design items, handcrafted goods, and more. Reddit

Yes, the unique shops offer a great opportunity to find distinctive souvenirs, from local crafts to designer apparel. Reddit

With the diverse range of food vendors, you're likely to find vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask the vendors directly about their offerings.

📸 📸 Photography

The market's unique blend of historical architecture and modern design offers many photogenic corners. Look for interesting textures, street art, and the vibrant atmosphere of the food stalls. The overall grungy yet chic aesthetic is very Instagrammable. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and vendors. If you plan on professional shoots, it's best to inquire about any specific regulations.

Late afternoon into the evening can offer beautiful lighting as the market lights up, creating a dynamic atmosphere. Weekday evenings might provide fewer people in your shots. TikTok

Capture the contrast between the old industrial elements and the new creative businesses. The bustling food areas and unique shop displays are also great subjects.

While generally permitted, be mindful of using flash, especially in smaller shops or when photographing people, to avoid disruption.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mercado Novo can be a fun outing for families, offering a lively atmosphere and diverse food options that might appeal to different tastes. While it's a trendy spot, the open layout of some areas can accommodate strollers. Reddit Encourage kids to explore the unique shops and perhaps try a new local treat. However, be mindful that it can get crowded, especially on weekends, and some areas might be more suited for adults. It's also worth noting that during certain periods, hygiene and mask usage were strictly enforced, which could be a factor for families to consider. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Mercado Novo is known for its trendy vibe and can have higher prices, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy it. Look for places offering "cerveja barata" (cheap beer) or consider sharing dishes with friends to manage costs. Reddit Some Redditors mention finding good deals on drinks, like "long neck de stella, 3 por 22." Reddit Visiting during off-peak hours might also lead to slightly more affordable options or less pressure to spend. Focus on enjoying the atmosphere and perhaps one or two carefully chosen culinary experiences rather than trying everything. Reddit

couples

Mercado Novo offers a fantastic setting for couples looking for a vibrant night out. The diverse food and drink options provide plenty of choices for a shared dining experience, from casual bites to more elaborate meals. Reddit The lively atmosphere, combined with the unique blend of historical and modern aesthetics, creates a romantic and engaging backdrop. Enjoy exploring the boutiques together or simply soaking in the ambiance with a drink in hand. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Vibe: Historic Meets Trendy

Mercado Novo is celebrated for its unique atmosphere, a captivating blend of historical industrial architecture and a vibrant, contemporary scene. It's described as a "cool, trendy spot" where the past meets the present in a visually striking way. Reddit The space itself is a character, with its grungy yet chic aesthetic providing a backdrop for a diverse crowd. You'll see people of all ages and inclinations mingling, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. Reddit

This fusion makes it more than just a place to eat or shop; it's an experience. The market is an ensemble of not only food and drink establishments but also arts, crafts, flower shops, and clothing stores. Reddit This eclectic mix contributes to its appeal as a destination where you can spend hours exploring, soaking in the ambiance, and discovering hidden gems. The market seems to be expanding too, hinting at a future that promises even more to discover. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Shopping Treasures

At its heart, Mercado Novo is a haven for food lovers. Visitors rave about the "incredible food" and the "many places to drink," highlighting it as one of the best places to eat and drink in Belo Horizonte. Reddit You can expect a wide variety of options, from traditional Mineiro cuisine to more contemporary culinary offerings. The reviews often mention it as a "really good surprise" for its quality and variety. Reddit

Beyond the gastronomic delights, Mercado Novo is also a hub for local creativity and commerce. The market features numerous small shops offering "modern and alternative fashion items," local designer clothing, graphic design products, and handcrafted accessories. Reddit This makes it an excellent spot for finding unique souvenirs or pieces that reflect the local artistic scene. Whether you're there to savor a meal or hunt for treasures, Mercado Novo promises a rich and engaging experience for all your senses. Reddit

You may also like