If you want to spend a Saturday afternoon in an amusing way like I did, head over to Blackrock Market. Nestled at the heart of Blackrock village, minutes from Main Street, Blackrock, you'll find narrow alleyways teeming with all sorts of charming things, from cakes and ice cream to vintage collectibles. It's open on weekends only. You can reach Blackrock Main Street by Dublin Bus route 17 or even from the DART station.
The entrance to Blackrock Market is a little obscure, but this green rickshaw signposted the way for me. The beautifully painted wall murals at the entrance will already set you in a pleasant mood.
The entrance to Blackrock Market is a little obscure, but this green rickshaw signposted the way for me. The beautifully painted wall murals at the entrance will already set you in a pleasant mood.
Meandering through these narrow alleyways will bring you back in time. Rows of tiny shops here sell all sorts of collectibles, ranging from china tea ware, handicrafts, decorative pieces, to name a few.
Look closely at the pictures above - you'll see handmade jewellery, gorgeous little tea cups, guitars, hand-stitched baskets, books and even vintage clothing. There is an entire row of shops like these. Now, you know where to go if you want to find a unique gift for someone.
However, Blackrock Market isn't all about old-fashioned goods. You are bound to feast your eyes and stomach on various gastronomical delights here. What if I told you that amidst all the yesteryear paraphernalia you would find a Lebanese Tapas, an Indian restaurant, cake stands, and an ice cream parlour?
However, Blackrock Market isn't all about old-fashioned goods. You are bound to feast your eyes and stomach on various gastronomical delights here. What if I told you that amidst all the yesteryear paraphernalia you would find a Lebanese Tapas, an Indian restaurant, cake stands, and an ice cream parlour?
A true Mumbaikar at heart, I had a plate of one of my favourite chaat items for lunch at 3 Leaves, the Indian restaurant nestled in the heart of Blackrock Market. 3 Leaves is also one of the most well-accredited Indian restaurants in the city; don't let its tiny size fool you! I also spotted a vegan cake stand and brought home a slice to enjoy with a cup of tea.
There are also lots of other types of things you might find. For example, a shop here sells CD records of retro Rock, Soul and Jazz numbers and Gemma the Fortune Teller ekes out her living at this village market. Otherwise, some sights are just so pretty to admire by themselves - be it the vintage-themed decoration of stalls or the gorgeous wall murals.
I'm pretty sure every visitor will find something that interests them here - whether it's the food or the handicrafts or even the Asian Grocery Store towards the back end of this open market. I would recommend Blackrock Market to anyone who wants to spend a lazy Saturday outdoors.
April 2018