Top Dining Destinations in Seattle’s Premier Tourist Spot

ConnectConnect any Seattle local and ask to meet at Pike Place Market on a Saturday afternoon, and you're likely to hear laughter followed by a firm, “No.” The idea of navigating through throngs of people weaving through narrow aisles and packed stalls is, for many, a deterrent. Yet, despite this, locals have a deep-seated affection for the place. It’s a tourist magnet teeming with Starbucks fans, street performers, and children attempting to ride Rachel, the enormous bronze piggy bank beneath the iconic Public Market Center sign. For Seattleites, it’s also a place rich with personal history: childhood family outings, teenage escapades, first jobs, and sneaky sips of beer.

Pike Place Market is genuinely unique. Far more than just the spectacle of fish being tossed across counters, it’s a labyrinth of over 200 small businesses spread across 24 buildings and nine acres along the waterfront. Much like Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal, LA’s Grand Central, and Cleveland’s West Side markets, Pike Place intertwines Seattle’s historic past with its dynamic future. A single visit won’t uncover all its treasures, but if you’re searching for it, you’ll find it here: steaks and sausages, cheeses and charcuterie, colossal crabs and fresh salmon, a wide variety of beers, vibrant flowers, global cuisines, local honey and jams, vintage books and clothing, handmade art and jewelry, magic tricks, and even Game of Thrones Pez dispensers.

Weekends bring the largest crowds to this bustling indoor-outdoor marketplace

The ever-popular line outside the “original” Starbucks at Pike Place Market

Established in 1907 to allow local farmers to directly sell their goods to Seattle’s expanding population, Pike Place Market started with just a handful of vendors offering produce, dairy, eggs, and meat. By the end of the first week, the number of merchants had risen to 70. Over the years, permanent stalls and additional buildings were constructed, including the Economy Market, the Sanitary Building (where horses were banned), the Corner Market Building, and the Triangle Building. By the 1930s, Pike Place had already taken on much of its current character: a winding maze of streets and alleys, surrounded by busy roads and steep hills.

The market is somewhat organized (with plenty of maps and information booths to help navigate): fish markets, butchers, produce, and flower stalls are generally located in the Main Arcade and Corner Market Building, divided by Pike Place (the street). Descend the ramps or stairs in the Main Arcade to explore two floors of enduring shops. There’s a hidden rooftop garden behind the butchers for a peaceful break, and a spacious public area at the MarketFront building, the newest addition since 2017, offering stunning waterfront views. Local artisans and craftspeople showcase their creations in the North Arcade and along the street. The rest of the market is filled with food stalls, counters, markets, sit-down restaurants, and bars scattered throughout the complex.

Seattle locals have access to fresh, locally grown produce at neighborhood farmers markets and grocery stores, which offer more convenience. Visit midweek from October to April for a quieter experience with mostly locals, avoiding the weekend crowds. Mornings are ideal, as you can witness the market coming alive and enjoy less crowded food establishments. As the day goes on, navigating through the crowds can be challenging, but there are strategies to avoid them. After the main market closes, evening-only spots open up for dinner and drinks. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a quick visit for specific items, here’s a plan to make the most of your time.

Lowell’s renowned Dungeness crab omelet and crab Benedict

BREAKFAST

Even on a quiet day, Biscuit Bitch is bustling with activity. Situated on First Avenue, which borders the market, it attracts crowds eager for its buttery biscuits loaded with toppings like eggs, grits, sausage, and gravy. For a quieter experience, consider stopping by the Crumpet Shop just a few doors down for a soothing tea and an egg-and-ham crumpet. Crumpets serve as an ideal base for both sweet and savory toppings such as raspberry preserves, ricotta with lemon curd, or ham and cheese. This cheerful café offers a calm contrast and is a beloved spot among locals.

Breakfast time is perfect at Lowell’s, a renowned three-story Mytoury nestled in the Main Arcade building. Place your order at the counter on the ground floor, then head to a window seat on the third floor (the second floor is reserved for table service) to enjoy views of ferries gliding across the Sound. Savor fluffy omelets stuffed with fresh Dungeness crab, crispy hash browns, and a zesty bloody mary accompanied by an oyster. Plus, coffee refills are self-service.

The allure of hot mini doughnuts keeps the line constant at Daily Dozen Doughnut Company in the Economy Market. It’s a treat to watch the pale dough blobs float through a river of hot oil in the automatic Donut Robot fryer, flipping halfway through until they achieve a golden brown. Sharing a bag of sprinkle-topped or powdered sugar doughnuts, especially when they’re still warm, is a delightful experience.

Freshly made savory piroshky at Piroshky Piroshky

Sweet cinnamon and cardamom braid at Piroshky Piroshky

Among the various bakeries at Pike Place, Le Panier and Piroshky Piroshky are the ones with the longest queues, and it's easy to see why. Le Panier draws crowds with its flaky croissants, airy brioche, and delicate macarons — all worth a brief wait. Meanwhile, the irresistible scent of Russian rolls and pastries wafts from the streetside Piroshky Piroshky. Skilled bakers constantly shape and fill soft dough to meet the demand for golden cardamom and cinnamon braids, cheesy garlic swirls, and pockets packed with apples, rhubarb, or potatoes. Be prepared with your order, as the line moves quickly. Ask for the latest oven-fresh items.

Skip the crowds at the “original” Starbucks on Pike Place, which, despite its historic status, is just another Starbucks in the end. Instead, head to Ghost Alley Espresso beneath the Main Arcade for a coffee fix — and don’t miss the notorious Gum Wall nearby. Alternatively, visit the more stylish Storyville Coffee in the Corner Market Building for a unique experience.

A sampler of chowders from Pike Place Chowder

LUNCH

In the Pacific Northwest, where clams and seafood are abundant, chowder is a must-try. Every restaurant seems to have its own version, some more complex than others. If you’re willing to brave the crowds at Pike Place Chowder, go for their hearty oyster and crab chowder. Don’t be deterred by the line barker directing the queue — it’s all part of the system to keep things moving efficiently. For a classic New England clam chowder experience, Jack’s Fish Spot in the Sanitary Building offers a rich, thick, peppery version served in a large bread bowl, perfect as a prelude to their crispy fish and chips.

At Market Grill in the Main Arcade, the chowder is rich with herbs and brimming with clams, potatoes, and dill. The small counter is an ideal spot for people-watching. The signage boasts about their TV-famous sandwiches, and the blackened salmon — cooked medium-rare and topped with sweet grilled onions and rosemary mayo on a crusty baguette — is wonderfully simple and satisfying.

Venture further into the Corner Market and you might find a wall covered with handwritten signs of etiquette: “No discounts, please”; “If you’re on your phone, don’t expect help”; “Looking for the WiFi password? Try talking to each other.”; “I’m cooking, so don’t ask for favors.” A local favorite, Oriental Mart, serves up Filipino comfort foods like savory pork adobo, tangy longanisa sausage with rice, pancit noodles, and hearty salmon sinigang soup. The menu varies daily, and items are made in limited quantities, often running out by early afternoon.

Cheeky signs and longanisa at Oriental Mart

A hidden gem, Country Dough offers hand-shaved Sichuan noodles that are either tossed with spicy ground pork or served in a fiery broth, with generous portions perfect for sharing. Their curry beef pies and dumplings are also highly sought after. Inside, a few stools by the windows and tables in a secluded courtyard, shared with Emmett Watson’s Oyster Bar — Seattle’s oldest, operating since 1979 — provide a cozy, no-frills dining experience featuring fresh Washington oysters, Rainier beer, and a friendly vibe.

Since 1946, DeLaurenti Food & Wine has been the go-to for locals seeking top-notch cheeses and charcuterie (better than Quality Cheese across the street) and a wide array of pantry staples from dried pastas to an impressive selection of olive oils. The real draw, however, is the deli, where you can enjoy Italian sandwiches, square pizza, and daily specials like Monday’s meatballs drenched in marinara sauce.

Growlers of Rachel’s Ginger Beer

SNACKS

Aside from free samples, there’s a wealth of portable snacks to enjoy on the go: try empanadas from El Mercado Latino, sausage or bacon skewers from Bavarian Meats, conchas and tacos from Mexican Grocery, and pides and baklava from Turkish Delight. Don’t miss Mee Sum Pastry for a giant, fluffy hom bow—the baked bun filled with bright-red barbecue pork is a must—or opt for their oversized shu mai.

For a sweet treat, while ice cream is always a good choice, Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt offers a more satisfying option. Located opposite the iconic neon sign and clock, their thick, tangy yogurt is served like gelato, mixed with fresh Pacific Northwest fruits like marionberries or raspberries and ginger. Rachel’s Ginger Beer is another unique stop. Alongside their signature ginger beer, enjoy refreshing draft cocktails like the classic Moscow mule or the Porch Swing with gin and Aperol, and don’t forget their boozy ice cream floats.

Canned fish, pickles, and wine at JarrBar

Views and brews at Old Stove Brewing

DINNER & DRINKS

The Pike Place area boasts a rich tapestry of dining spots, from the historic Athenian Seafood Restaurant and Bar, which has been serving seafood and frosty beers since 1909, to the acclaimed Sushi Kashiba, known for its exceptional omakase and sushi. Reservations might be needed for some places, while others welcome walk-ins. Securing a seat at Kashiba is a challenge—diners often queue up two hours before opening to experience Shiro Kashiba’s masterfully crafted Edo-style nigiri. At Matt’s in the Market, the fried catfish sandwich on potato bread is almost as iconic as the neon signs visible through the large arched windows. The seafood offerings, especially clams with chorizo and stewed corona beans, make this spot a lunchtime and dinner favorite.

Pike Place offers an impressive array of drinking spots, too many to explore in a single day (unless you’re moving between them quickly). The cozy Il Bistro, nestled under the market, is renowned for its impressive selection of spirits and cocktails, including an extensive range of amari. The dimly lit bar is a popular haunt for local restaurant staff, who appreciate the reasonably priced Honey Stinger. Craft beer enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, with notable brews like the Bitter Lake IPA at Pike Brewing Company and a refreshingly hazy IPA at Old Stove Brewing, best enjoyed on the expansive patio overlooking the Sound.

End your market adventure at JarrBar, the hidden gem tucked beneath the main building on Western Avenue. This tiny yet charming spot fills up quickly, offering a menu designed for grazing into the evening. Delve into an array of tinned seafood, house-made pickles, and charcuterie, including anchovy-stuffed olives and Matiz sardines paired with crackers, Jacobsen sea salt, and espelette. Enjoy sophisticated cocktails like the Brownstein, made with Cynar, gin, and sherry. Time slips away here, especially when the bartender puts on some vinyl. Before the night is over, you’ll likely find yourself ordering a glass of Txakoli and a plate of jamón ibérico, blending Seattle’s unique vibe with the relaxed feel of San Sebastián.