There is something very exciting happening in Seattle; Pike Place Market is expanding for the first time in history! This is significant not only in the Seattle community, but in the foodie world as well. Pike Place Market is an icon of American food culture and home to some of my favorite restaurants. In honor of this occasion, I’ve put together a list of some of the places I love to eat and drink in the Market, enjoy!
Bacco Café: It’s all about breakfast here, and the fresh squeezed juice! They’ve got a Dungeness Crab Benedict that will change your life. Plan to get there early if you don’t want to wait, especially in the summer!
Café Campagne: For a moment you’ll think you’re in a bistro in France instead of the Pacific Northwest. Perfect for date night, or a lovely weekend brunch. The wine list is beyond extensive and you’re very likely to find me at the bar on a weekday evening enjoying a glass and their always impressive cheese tray.
Il Bistro: Two words: Funghi Ravioli. Only $2.95 at Happy Hour, daily from 5 to 6:30 PM. This delectable little dish comes with a hazelnut cream sauce that literally makes me want to lick the plate every time (and full disclosure – I’ve come here and ordered two on more than one occasion).
Lowell’s: You’ll come for the view but you’ll keep coming back for the breakfast tacos! Located in the apex of Pike Place Market, Lowell’s offers the freshest seafood, produce, local spices and artisanal breads.
Matt’s in the Market: The lamb burger will knock your socks off! Make sure to make a reservation (even for lunch) because you’ll definitely need one! Offering a picturesque view of the iconic Public Market sign, it’s perfect for enjoying the Market without fighting the crowds.
Place Pigalle: Here you will find my favorite desserts in the city. The pot de crème and crème brulee are absolute heaven (and no I cannot chose a favorite). Enjoy one with a glass of wine while you watch the sun slip below the Olympic Mountains across the bay.
Radiator Whiskey: What could be better than a pork-centric whiskey bar? I can’t think of anything! Radiator has become one of the Market’s signature establishments where the locals and industry gather after a hard day’s work. Chefs Tyler and Charlie specialize in what I can describe only as “gourmet comfort food”. My favorite thing on the menu? Definitely the tater tots, complete with a fried egg and gravy that’s so good it will make you forget your name!
The Market is truly a special place and I’m thrilled it’s expanding to make room for even more vendors, artists and restaurants. The Pike Place Market Foundation has launched the PikeUp! campaign to raise the funds needed to complete this important project. This campaign opens up opportunities for Market supporters to engrave their names into Market history. Donors can add names or personal inscriptions to a ribbon of Market Charms or a trail of Hoofprints that will dance and shine on the new MarketFront. One Charm or Hoofprint alone can be uniquely yours!
Learn more and see your personalized Market Charm or Hoofprint come to life: www.pikeup.org!
Written by: Stephanie Forrer
Photo Credits: Pike Place Market, Bacco Cafe, Cafe Campagne, Il Bistro, Lowell's, Matt's in the Market, Jason Trinkle Photography, Radiator Whiskey, Pike Place Market Foundation