Food enthusiasts and south London locals have reason to celebrate as a cherished culinary destination is poised for a triumphant return. Lewisham's Model Market will reopen its doors in the spring of 2026, marking the end of a five-year absence from the capital's vibrant street food scene.
A Nostalgic Revival with a Modern Twist
The market's revival is spearheaded by Landsec, the developer which owns the site. They have pledged to resurrect the space as a dedicated hub for independent kitchens, local artisans, and creative programming. The new design will pay homage to the market's rich history, drawing inspiration from its original 1950s aesthetic with retro shopfronts and atmospheric string lighting.
This comeback is part of a larger regeneration plan for Lewisham town centre, which involves demolishing the existing 1970s-built centre to make way for approximately 1,700 new homes. Despite this impending redevelopment, the Model Market will temporarily return to its original building.
From Black-Owned Businesses to Street Food Hub
The site holds significant local heritage. Long before it became a street food hotspot in 2014, the Model Market served as a vital trading post for numerous small, Black-owned businesses throughout the 1950s and beyond. Its more recent incarnation, operated by Street Feast, gained a loyal following before its closure in 2021 following the operator's collapse.
More Than Just a Place to Eat
Landsec has emphasised that the revived market will be a multifaceted social hub. The offering will extend far beyond food, with a lineup that includes live DJ sets, genre-spanning music performances, pop-up events, and cultural activities that blend art, music, and dining.
A spokesperson for Model Market stated: "With a nostalgic design inspired by mid-century shopfronts and a commitment to modern, sustainable values, the new Model Market will feel both timeless and completely new." They added a call to local talent, inviting kitchen concepts, small shops, and community event organisers to apply to be part of shaping Lewisham's next great social space.
Vendor applications are currently open online, though the exact opening date in spring 2026 is yet to be confirmed. This eagerly awaited return promises to reinject character and community spirit into the heart of Lewisham.
