Because I expected pricey but good
08 Mar 08, 14:38
As expected
I had heard that the Broadway Markets were pricey but nice, like a little Borough Markets without the long ride on the 48 (if you live in Hackney like me). It lived up to this reputation on both counts. Everything (and everyone) is very pretty; one gets the feeling that one is not in Kansas anymore, if you know what I mean. There is something rarified about the place and I half wondered if I would need to show my bank book as terms of admission. Luckily, the guy doing the hog roast was more than happy to chat about our mutual love of slow-cooked pork - fennel is his not-so-secret herb of choice and the rolls at his stall are well worth the price (4.20), which is enough for two mid-morning eaters. Many of the stalls are branch offices for Borough so it was nice to see familiar brownies and olives, among other things. Why didn't it exceed my expectations? Not quite enough choice and everything feeling just a bit precious. Maybe that was just the dog all dressed for weather and fashion in black leather cape and booties on each paw. Hm. I feel funny about a weekend market that sends the message: you are underdressed. From dogs, no less. NB: ride along the canals to get to the market; it gives the experience a proper earthy, weekend feel.
