"Bessarabsky market, Lypky. This market stands at the southwest end of Khreshchatyk street. The building was erected in 1910-1912 in late modern style by Polish architect Henryk Julian Gay. His project was so high-tech it took an incredible effort for local constructors to bring it to life. This indoor market survived through number of wars and revolutions, was under threat of demolition by the soviets but luckily still remains one of the most colorful and authentic Kyiv place.You can buy fresh meat, fish or any kind of greens (all considered much overpriced by locals) from the loud Ukrainian tradeswomen or calm Uzbek fellows. Have a cheap quick bite at numerous fast-food spots (including VeganoHooligano and Linas deserving stand-alone mention in this guide) available from the inside or outside of the market building. The Bessarabsky market is open 24/7 so you can try your luck during the night asking security guys to bring you to the large basement by 100 years old elevator which served as a large morgue for bolsheviks due to high demand for spaces of this kind during Stalin’s rule."