Viktualienmarkt
Walking around the city, you'll notice that Munich has retained much of its small town charms when it comes to shopping. You buy your meat at the butcher, bread at the baker, shoes at the shoe shops, wines at the wine shops, the list goes on and on. While it may take a bit of getting used to, I have grown quite accustomed and appreciative of these specialty shops. Talk to the owners or employees and they'll tell you, in detail, why the Brie cheese made from farm #1 is better than the Gouda made from farm #4 as you stand there thinking "I just wanted to buy some Kraft American Singles".
For over 200 years, Müncheners have gathered at the Viktualienmarkt to find the freshest produce of the day. Originally a farmers market, Viktualienmarkt was an expansion of the farmers market that stood in Marienplatz. Severely damaged during the second World War, it was discussed to close it down, or build on top of it. Yet, the city agreed to keep the open market as it stimulated the local economies of small towns.
With 22,000 square meters boasting 140 stands, Viktualienmarkt has evolved from a simple farmer's market to selling specialized products such as wines, cheeses, flowers, spices, poultry and hand-made crafts. Grab a fresh fruit smoothie and take a walk around. Hungry? Viktualienmarkt also has a few stands where you can sit, enjoy a beer and a wurst mit senf (sausage with mustard). Head over to the Honey house, where all of their products are made with their honey: Gummie Bears, Wine (soooo yum), Creams, and of course--honey. This is actually my favorite place to grab a few "special" gifts for people as the wines are only 10€ per bottle. Nothing says "I care" like loading someone up on imported, family made wine.