Seattle’s Pike Place Market is one of the city’s most famous sites, and one that is considered a “must” for most visitors. The market, which was built in 1907, is recognized as one of the best farmer’s markets in the US.  It’s home to 200 permanent businesses, 120 farmers, and 190 craftspeople, and attracts over 10 million visitors per year. But what makes it so great is that it isn’t only a touristy site, but a real working market. You can come to shop for crafts, antiques, fresh produce, brightly-colored flowers, handmade sauces, souvenirs and fresh-from-the-sea fish, lobster and crab (which can be cold-packed and shipped home for you). Or….you can come to eat.

Pike Place Entrance

In and around the Market are dozens of places to get your fill of cuisine that represents the Pacific Northwest, and the whole world. From gourmet dining in a romantic setting, to casual grub served at a counter, you can score breakfast, lunch or dinner in a variety of cuisines and at almost any price point. You can grab a quick bite like some freshly fried donuts or a slice of pizza, or stock up on artisanal sandwiches, soups and pastries, and have an alfresco picnic while enjoying the views over Puget Sound.

Here are some of the Market’s best bets for good eating.

Breakfast
Skip the long lines at the original Starbucks and have a chocolate croissant and latte at Le Panier French Bakery instead (be sure to pick up a few macaron cookies for later).  Or grab a hearty Russian pastry filled with anything from potatoes and onions to smoked salmon and cream cheese at Piroshky Piroshky.

Piroshkys

Lunch and Dinner
For a casual meal, brave the fast-moving line at Beecher’s (snack on cheese curds or watch cheese being made while you wait) for a bowl of their signature mac n’cheese or some hot tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. Sample truffle treats and taste some wine at La Buona Tavola, or munch on tasty falafal pita at Falafal King. Il Bistro offers Italian traditions in a cozy, romantic atmosphere, and The Pink Door serves up French-influence fare and offers cabaret shows during dinner on certain nights.

Drinks
Le Pichet, which also serves French food, offers wine by the pichet (pitcher) at reasonable prices. The Tasting Room hosts wine tasting events, and Kell’s Irish Pub is the place to go for lively musical performances and a few pints of Irish beer.

Photo credits: Pike Place entrance, wheelo50411; piroshky, leetucker; Pink Door, thegirlsmoma – all via Flickr