Embark on a Gastronomic Tour of Belo Horizonte’s Markets and Discover the Flavors of Minas Gerais
Exploring the traditional Mercado Central and the modern Mercado Novo is an immersion into the very best that Belo Horizonte has to offer.
Affectionately called BH (Beagá) by locals, Belo Horizonte offers an authentic deep dive into Minas Gerais cuisine. Food is not just a highlight—it’s an attraction in itself. And the city’s markets are a must-visit for anyone who wants to fully experience this culinary universe. With an explosion of flavors, colors, aromas, and endless options, getting lost in the markets and uncovering their secrets at your own pace is the best way to explore.
Belo Horizonte’s passion for food has earned it the title of UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The city is internationally recognized for its culinary creativity, vibrant food scene, renowned chefs, and beloved local dishes.
Whether in the capital or in the countryside, traveling through Minas Gerais is a journey of flavors. Signature dishes include feijão tropeiro (seasoned beans with sausage and collard greens), frango com quiabo (chicken with okra), tutu de feijão (bean purée), Minas cheese with coffee, and, of course, the iconic pão de queijo (cheese bread).
But the true essence of Minas Gerais cuisine goes beyond ingredients. It lies in the stories, traditions, and deep-rooted connection to the land. Recipes are passed down through generations, always carrying the respect for nature and the wisdom of the past. This is exactly what you’ll experience on a tour of Belo Horizonte’s most emblematic markets. Ready to embark on this journey?
MERCADO CENTRAL: THE HEART OF MINAS GASTRONOMY
The Mercado Central of Belo Horizonte has been ranked one of the top three markets in the world by TAM nas Nuvens magazine. With a history spanning over 90 years and more than 400 shops, it is a must-visit attraction for tourists and a favorite gathering place for locals.
At Mercado Central, you’ll find typical Minas Gerais products, fresh fruits, local cheeses, spices, artisanal crafts, and a vast selection of beverages and snacks.
It’s a unique space that blends tradition and modernity, capturing the essence of Minas Gerais culture. The market is a hotspot for chefs and home cooks alike, as they seek out fresh ingredients and rare spices. Its charm and vibrant energy make it Belo Horizonte’s most beloved market.
MERCADO NOVO: MODERNITY WITH TRADITIONAL ROOTS
Opened in 2014, the Mercado Novo is a younger and more laid-back counterpart to the traditional Mercado Central.
With a lively and dynamic atmosphere, Mercado Novo is home to trendy bars, restaurants, and specialty shops that offer everything from traditional Minas dishes to contemporary gastronomic creations.
Here, you can taste artisanal cachaça, homemade liqueurs, and locally brewed craft beers while soaking in the relaxed, welcoming vibe.
A JOURNEY OF FLAVORS AND STORIES
The Belo Horizonte Market Tour starts at 9:00 AM at Mercado Central, where a specialized guide will lead you on an unforgettable culinary adventure.
The tour begins right in the heart of Mercado Central, where you’ll walk through its corridors, learning about its rich history and its most iconic flavors.
Tip: You can’t leave without trying the famous pão de queijo paired with a freshly brewed Minas coffee—a match made in heaven!
If you love cold beer and delicious snacks, you’re in the right place! Enjoy some of Mercado Central’s most beloved specialties: fígado com jiló – Sautéed beef liver with bitter gourd, the market’s top-selling dish, torresmo de barriga – Crispy pork belly with sugarcane molasses, feijão tropeiro – A hearty mix of beans,sausage, eggs, and manioc flour, dadinhos de tapioca com queijo canastra – Fried tapioca bites with Canastra cheese, costela no bafo – Slow-cooked, tender beef ribs, chouriço acebolado – sautéed chorizo with onions.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous mexido mineiro—a rich dish featuring rice, vegetables, pork loin, homemade sausage, fried quail eggs, and a special herb seasoning.
Before leaving Mercado Central, be sure to taste Minas Gerais’ world-famous cachaça—a sugarcane spirit that is Brazil’s most traditional liquor.
The tour then continues to Mercado Novo, where you’ll sample juices, craft beers, coffees, liqueurs, and cachaças while learning about the artisanal production processes behind these beverages.
As part of the experience, guests receive a fun and interactive map of Minas Gerais, where stickers are added for each region’s culinary traditions that have been “conquered” throughout the tour.
The experience lasts approximately four hours, and every tasting is paired with fascinating stories about ingredient origins and Minas Gerais’ rich traditions.
If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond taste, the Belo Horizonte Market Tour is the perfect choice. Prepare to delight in Minas Gerais’ incredible flavors, connect with the traditions behind each dish, and immerse yourself in the essence of Minas culture.Belo Horizonte has never been so delicious, and this tour proves it! Join us on this unforgettable journey!
HOW TO GET THERE
Belo Horizonte/Confins – Tancredo Neves International Airport
BH A PÉ
BH a Pé is a series of guided walking experiences through downtown Belo Horizonte, already enjoyed by over a thousand people from all backgrounds. It has been featured by major Brazilian media outlets like TV Globo, G1, Folha de São Paulo, Viagem e Turismo magazine, and O Tempo newspaper. To explore the full list of BH a Pé experiences, visit: bhape.com.br