17 Best Places to Eat in Pike Place Market (A Seattle Local’s Guide)
If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Pike Place Market, you’re definitely not short on options. From iconic seafood spots and fresh baked pastries to hidden gems tucked away in the lower levels of the market, there’s something here for every kind of craving and every kind of budget.
As someone who’s lived in Seattle for nearly five years, I’ve visited Pike Place Market more times than I can count, easily well over a hundred visits between showing friends around the city, grabbing lunch downtown, and spending way too much money on snacks. After trying so many different restaurants, food stalls, bakeries, and quick bite spots, these are all the places I keep coming back to again and again.
This list isn’t just the most famous tourist stops, though a few of those absolutely deserve the hype. It’s a mix of classic Pike Place Market staples, local favorites, and a few personal go-to spots that I think every visitor should try at least once. Whether you’re visiting Seattle for the first time or just want to know where locals actually eat in the market, these are the spots worth adding to your list.
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Sample the best foods in the Market!
Want to skip the guesswork and taste the best of Pike Place Market with a guide?
A food tour is one of the best ways to experience the market, especially if it’s your first time visiting Seattle!
How to Choose Where to Eat in Pike Place Market
With dozens of food stalls, restaurants, grab-and-go counters, and pop-ups, it can feel overwhelming picking what to eat and where to eat in Pike Place Market.
To add another layer to the madness, the Pike Place Market complex is actually a lot bigger and more expansive than people realize. It’s more than just the bazaar behind the iconic sign. There are actually 10 levels to Pike Place Market spanning across 9-acres, so as you can imagine there are practically unlimited options for food, beverages, and snacks.
Don’t let this intimidate you, though! Think of it as a fun labyrinth with new sights, smells, and delights around every corner.
My best piece of advice in choosing where to eat in Pike Place Market is to first decide between a sit down restaurant or a food stall/quick service restaurant. Once you make that decision, things will feel a lot easier and less stressful almost immediately.
I’ve made sure to notate which of these spots in this list are “sit down style” vs. “food stall style” to better help you decide which ones meet your needs! Plus, read to the end to see my list of best spots broken down by meal type (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and more!
Grab my FREE interactive Pike Place Market map for easy navigating to all the best spots!
17 Best Places to Eat in Pike Place Market
1. Seattle Dumpling Co.
Honestly, Seattle Dumpling Co. might be my personal favorite spot in all of Pike Place Market. It’s one of those places I find myself going back to again and again, especially on colder Seattle days when I want something warm and comforting.
Everything here is made to order and served takeaway style, though there are a few counter seats along the back window and some seating in the nearby courtyard if you want to stay and eat. The portions are generous, the food comes out quickly, and it’s one of the best spots in the market for a satisfying meal that feels a little less touristy.
I highly recommend ordering the beef onion dumplings or the beef noodles. Both are packed with flavor, super comforting, and a perfect reward after you’ve been walking around the Market all morning or afternoon. If you’re looking for a filling lunch that is a little more under the radar than some of the iconic Pike Place staples, this is definitely the spot to go!
2. Piroshky-Piroshky
You’ll probably smell the warm, buttery dough from Piroshky Piroshky before you even spot the storefront. It is easily one of my favorite places for pastries in all of Pike Place Market and one of the most iconic food stops in the entire Market.
This longtime local favorite is known for its handmade Russian pastries, both sweet and savory, with options ranging from smoked salmon and beef to fruit filled and dessert style piroshkies. If you’re visiting during the summer, on a weekend, or during the morning rush, don’t be surprised if there is a line stretching out the door. I promise, it’s absolutely worth the wait.
Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here, but my personal favorite is the Bacon, Hashbrown, Egg, and Cheese Piroshky. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for breakfast before spending the day exploring Seattle. The Chocolate Cream Hazelnut Piroshky is a very close second if you’re craving something sweet.
3. Alibi Room
If you’re a pizza lover, you need to visit Alibi Room. Located next to the infamous Gum Wall on the middle level of Pike Place Market, Alibi Room is one of the best spots for sit-down style pizza in a cozy “underground” setting.
I’ve dined at Alibi Room several times and tried something new each time, but my favorite pizzas so far have been the Green Eggs & Ham Pie and the Four Cheese Pie. You really can’t go wrong with any of their pies or calzones, though!
4. Zig Zag Cafe
If you’re big on ambience and delicious cocktails, Zig Zag Cafe is probably one of the best spots in the Market for a night cap. It’s romantic and refined without feeling stuffy.
They also have live jazz every Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, which adds a nice touch to an already outstanding dig. This spot is 21+, so make sure to plan accordingly and be prepared to show ID at the door.
Zig Zag Cafe is one of my favorite spots to hang out as a local because it just feels like something straight out of a F. Scott Fitzgerald novel.
5. Lowell’s Restaurant
Lowell’s is one of the most iconic restaurants in Pike Place Market. It’s well-known for its delicious seafood and abundance of water view seating across 3 levels, and has been serving locals and tourists alike since 1957.
It’s a breakfast and lunch spot, but I personally recommend dining-in for breakfast. The breakfast plates and cocktails at Lowell’s are fantastic. Plus, there’s nothing better than sipping a morning mimosa while overlooking Elliott Bay.
Since Lowell’s is known for their seafood, I recommend trying one of their salmon or crab dishes. My personal go-to is the Smoked King Salmon Benedict!
6. Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is one of the most iconic food stops in Pike Place Market and absolutely one of those places that lives up to the hype. While Beecher’s has become a nationwide favorite, it all started right here in Pike Place Market, which makes stopping at the original location feel like a bit of a Seattle rite of passage.
Located right in the main arcade, Beecher’s is known for its handmade cheeses and the huge windows where you can actually watch the cheesemaking process happening inside. It’s a fun stop even if you’re just passing through, but I’d definitely recommend grabbing something to eat while you’re there.
The mac and cheese at Beecher’s is hands down some of the best mac and cheese I’ve ever had, and I’ve had mac and cheese in a lot of places around the world. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly cheesy with that ideal sharp cheddar flavor that makes it feel indulgent without being too heavy. It’s one of those simple dishes that somehow ends up being way more memorable than you expect.
If you’re really hungry, order the “World’s Best” Mac and Cheese with the Breadzel! This combo works great for dipping in the leftover cheese at the bottom of the bowl!
7. The Pink Door
The Pink Door is one of the most iconic restaurants in Pike Place Market, but it’s surprisingly easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. The entrance is in Post Alley behind a simple unmarked pink door. If you get lost, look for Kell’s Irish Pub across the alley and you won’t be too far off!
The space is warm, lively, and romantic, with Italian-American fusion dishes, strong cocktails, and one of the best dinner atmospheres in the Market. On certain nights, they also have live entertainment like music or aerial performances, which makes dinner here even more lively.
The menu is filled with classic options like fresh pasta and seafood, but my personal go-to’s on the menu are arancini and the ravioli. For cocktails, my absolute favorite option here is Hope Springs Eternal Prosecco-based cocktail!
8. Le Panier
This French bakery is known for its fresh baked breads and classic pastries, and everything is made with a level of quality you can taste right away!
My favorites here are the pain au chocolat and the éclairs. Both are rich, perfectly made, and exactly what you want from a French bakery. They also offer a very reasonably priced demi baguette for about $2, which pairs perfectly with cheese if you’re building your own little Pike Place Market snack spread.
9. Maximilien
Maximilien is one of the best sit down restaurants in Pike Place Market if you’re looking for a meal with a view. For delicious French fare and amazing waterfront views, this restaurant is located behind Don and Joe’s on the main level of the market, overlooking Elliott Bay.
The menu leans classic French, and you really can’t go wrong with their escargot and steak frites. They also have a fabulous selection of French wines to choose from, and offer pairing recommendations for each menu option, which makes the whole experience feel elevated.
It’s definitely on the pricier side compared to most of the market, but between the food, the wine, and the waterfront views, it’s one of those places that feels worth slowing down for.
10. Wild Fish Poke
Wild Fish Poke is easily one of my favorite poke spots in all of Seattle. Tucked underneath the main level of Pike Place Market, it feels a little hidden compared to some of the busier food stalls above, but it is absolutely worth seeking out.
The ingredients here are incredibly fresh, the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable for the quality you’re getting. With Seattle being known for fresh seafood, this is one of my favorite places in the Market to grab salmon in a way that feels a little lighter than the usual chowder bowl or grilled fish plate.
I always order a regular size bowl with two scoops of Atlantic salmon and my favorite mix-ins, and it fills me up every single time.
11. Daily Dozen Doughnut Co.
Daily Dozen Doughnut Company is one of the most iconic quick bites in Pike Place Market and one of the only places in the market to grab fresh doughnuts. They’re known for their hot mini doughnuts made right in front of you and tossed in cinnamon sugar while you wait.
I recommend grabbing this in the morning before you explore the rest of the Market because they’re a great snack to eat while walking. Plus, they’re delicious for dipping in coffee!
12. Crêpe De France
Crêpe de France is one of those Pike Place Market spots that feels like a hidden gem because it’s quietly tucked away behind DeLaurenti on the south end of the main level. Many visitors don’t make it over here, which is such a shame because this one truly one of the best Market stops for chocolate-lovers!
They offer both savory and sweet crêpes, along with coffee, pastries, and other classic French café staples, but I always go straight for the sweet crêpes.
My personal favorite is the Crêpe aux Fraises Chocolat, which comes with fresh strawberries and rich chocolate in the most simple but perfect combination. Unlike the small snack-sized crêpes you might get while wandering around Paris, these crêpes aren’t made to be eaten while walking. They’re a whole meal, and best eaten sitting down with a knife and fork. Bon appétit!
13. Il Bistro
Il Bistro is one of my favorite date night spots in Pike Place Market and one of the best places to go if you love live music and Italian food. This spot is located under the main Pike Place Market sign on your way to the infamous Gum Wall.
They serve classic Italian dishes, strong cocktails, and a really solid wine list, which makes it a great spot for a night cap. I especially love their jazz nights on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
It is also one of the best late night food options in the area since they are open from 5 PM to 2 AM every night of the week, which is surprisingly rare around Pike Place Market once most of the food vendors close up for the evening.
14. Omart’s Lunch Counter
Oriental Mart Lunch Counter, or O-Mart for short, is a small Filipino lunch counter across from Wild Fish Poke and behind the Oriental Market storefront. This spot is famous among locals for its punchy character and delicious food.
Everything is served counter-style with generous portions, so be sure to come hungry. This lunch counter has been a staple in Pike Place Market since the late-1980s, and has been featured in several popular shows such as No Passport Required on PBS!
My go-to order here is the Pork Adobo with lumpia and a Pepsi! Simple, no-frills, but so delicious.
15. Freya Bakery & Cafe
Freya Bakery & Cafe is one of my favorite spots in Pike Place Market when I’m craving a slower morning and a really good pastry. It feels a little more tucked away compared to some of the main level stalls, which makes it a great place to step away from the crowds for a bit and actually sit down and enjoy your coffee.
This cozy Scandinavian-inspired bakery is known for its beautiful pastries, fresh baked breads, and excellent coffee. My personal favorite here is the blueberry danish, which is flaky, buttery, and perfectly balanced without being overly sweet. The dough and the blueberries taste so fresh. I also love ordering the København latte, which pairs perfectly with one of their pastries and makes the whole experience feel extra cozy.
16. Skalka
Skalka is one of my favorite lunch spots near Pike Place Market, especially when I want something filling that feels a little different from the usual seafood and pastries. Technically, it sits just between Pike Place Market and the Seattle waterfront, which makes it a perfect stop if you’re heading south after exploring the Market and want to escape some of the crowds.
This Georgian restaurant is known for its khachapuri, a warm boat-shaped bread filled with cheese and other toppings that somehow manages to be both incredibly comforting and ridiculously satisfying. Before eating at Skalka, I’d actually never tried Georgian food before and, honestly, I think it’s such a great introduction to Georgian cuisine.
For lunch, I always recommend the Veggie Khachapuri, which is packed with flavor and feels hearty without being too heavy. If you’re stopping by earlier in the day, the Adjaruli Khachapuri is my go-to breakfast order with its rich cheese filling and signature egg on top.
One khachapuri can also be shared easily between two people, which makes it a great option if you’re trying to sample multiple food spots around Pike Place Market instead of committing to one huge meal.
17. Pasta Casalinga
Pasta Casalinga is a small, unassuming spot tucked inside the market near Crêpe de France. The menu is simple with usually only a small handful of options to choose from, which is refreshing for those who suffer from decision fatigue!
Everything is handmade and cooked to order, the portions are generous, and the quality is consistent. I’ve tried all of the pastas here, but the Rossodoro is my favorite. Think classic-pasta dish but packed with flavor. It always hits the spot!
Want a map of all these spots and more?! Grab my FREE Pike Place Market Food Map here!
More Great Food Spots Near Pike Place Market
Best Pike Place Market Breakfast Spots
Pike Place Market thrives during breakfast hours with an abundance of bakeries, patisseries, cafes, and sit-down brunch spots scattered throughout the complex.
Some of my favorite breakfast spots include Freya Bakery & Cafe, Le Panier, and Piroshky Piroshky, especially if you’re looking for something quick and easy to take on the go. For sit down options, I recommend Lowell’s, Ludi’s, or Sound View Cafe.
Take the guesswork out of choosing a breakfast spot with this Pike Place Market Breakfast Tour!
Best Pike Place Market Seafood
If you’re looking for seafood, Pike Place Market is one of the most iconic spots in the city to indulge. With access to some of the freshest fish in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find everything from casual seafood counters to more elevated sit down restaurants.
Spots like Pike Place Chowder, Lowell’s, and The Athenian are all solid options depending on whether you’re in the mood for something quick or a full meal.
Best Pike Place Market Quick Bites
If you’re planning to snack your way through the market, there are plenty of quick bite options that are easy to grab and eat while exploring. This is honestly the best way to experience Pike Place Market if you want to try a little bit of everything without committing to one big meal.
Some of the best quick stops include Daily Dozen Doughnut Company, Mee Sum Pastry, and Piroshky Piroshky.
Best Pike Place Market Bars and Breweries
There are several great bars and breweries in and around Pike Place Market, along with restaurants that have strong cocktail and wine menus.
Old Stove Brewing is a popular choice for beer with a view, while Taproom at Pike Place has a huge selection of local brews. For something a little more intimate, places like Radiator Whiskey or Il Bistro are great for cocktails and late night drinks.
FAQs About Eating at Pike Place Market
Is Pike Place Market expensive to eat at?
One of the best things about eating at Pike Place Market is that there is truly something for every budget.
Quick service spots, bakeries, and food stalls are usually the most affordable options, with snacks and smaller bites starting at just a few dollars and most casual meals landing around $10 to $20.
Sit down restaurants tend to be more expensive, with most meals ranging from $30 to $100+ per person depending on the restaurant, what you order, and whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood or drinks with your meal.
What is the most famous food at Pike Place Market?
The original Starbucks is probably the most visited spot in Pike Place Market, but if we’re talking about food exclusively, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is one of the most iconic stops. They’re famous for their “World’s Best” mac and cheese. Even locals love it and would willingly wait in line for a cup of cheesy goodness.
Other must try Pike Place Market foods include clam chowder from Pike Place Chowder, fresh pastries from Piroshky-Piroshky, and the mini doughnuts from Daily Dozen Doughnut Company.
If it’s your first time visiting, I would recommend trying at least one classic seafood dish and one iconic market snack to get the full Pike Place experience.
Are there any late night food spots in Pike Place Market?
There are a handful of late night food spots in and around Pike Place Market, but most of them are sit down restaurants, cocktail bars, jazz clubs, or pubs rather than quick service market vendors.
Many of the food stalls and casual counter service spots inside the main market close earlier in the evening (usually around 5pm), especially compared to other parts of downtown Seattle. If you are looking for a late dinner, places like The Pink Door, Zig Zag Café, Il Bistro or other nearby Post Alley restaurants/bars are usually your best bet.
For quick late night bites, your options inside Pike Place Market are fairly limited, so it is best to plan ahead if you want to try one of the market’s most iconic food vendors!
Final Thoughts About the Best Places to Eat in Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of those places you could visit over and over again and still find something new to try. With so many food stalls, bakeries, and restaurants packed into one area, it can feel overwhelming at first, but that’s exactly why having a go-to list of all the best places to eat in Pike Place Market makes all the difference.
After living in Seattle for nearly five years and visiting Pike Place Market well over a hundred times, this post features all of the spots I keep coming back to. I’ve tried a lot of places in the Market, and the spots in this post are the ones that consistently stand out, whether I’m grabbing a quick bite, showing friends or family around, or just spending a day wandering and eating my way through.
Looking for more Seattle guides and PNW content? Check out my guide on everything to do during spring in Seattle + my ultimate guide on how to spend one day in Seattle! Plus, if you’re visiting the national parks near Seattle, you can check out my Mount Rainier guides, North Cascades guides, and Olympic National Park guides on the blog!
If you want to make planning your visit even easier, I’ve put together a free interactive Pike Place Market food map with all of these spots pinned out, plus a few extra favorites. You can sign up for my email list to get access to it and have everything saved right to your phone for your trip!
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➡️ Read Next: You can read more about what to do in Seattle by checking out my “Seattle in a Day” blog post!
