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Seattle, Washington / Food and drink

Pike Place Chowder

A renowned seafood destination in the heart of the market, famous for its scratch-made, award-winning chowders served in sourdough bread bowls.

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Pike Place Chowder
www.pikeplacechowder.com, og_image_www.pikeplacechowder.com

What is Pike Place Chowder known for?

It is known as the home of the 'Most Awarded Chowder in America,' specializing in scratch-made chowders and seafood rolls using fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients from the Pacific Northwest and Pike Place Market.

What are the hours?

Hours vary by location. The flagship market location is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where is it located?

There are two Seattle locations: a flagship location at 1530 Post Alley in Pike Place Market and a second location on the 4th floor of Pacific Place at 600 Pine St.

What kind of chowders do they serve?

They specialize in New England clam chowder, with other varieties including scallop, salmon, and crab and oyster, all of which are served with a sourdough bread bowl.

Can I order for delivery or pickup?

Yes, you can order for delivery or pickup through the restaurant's website or app, and they are available via Toast, DoorDash, and Uber Eats.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Pike Place Chowder is a celebrated seafood restaurant that has been a Seattle favorite since 2003. Located at 1530 Post Alley, the flagship location is nestled within the vibrant atmosphere of Pike Place Market. The establishment is known for its commitment to sustainably sourced seafood and farm-to-table ingredients, crafting scratch-made chowders that highlight the robust flavors of the Pacific Northwest. The restaurant describes itself as the home of the 'Most Awarded Chowder in America,' offering a variety of options including clam, crab and oyster, salmon, and scallop chowders. These hearty portions are traditionally served with a sourdough bread bowl, providing a satisfying meal for visitors exploring the market. What began as a cozy 20-seat restaurant has grown into a local favorite, often seeing lines of chowder-lovers wrapping around the block. This growth reflects the deep love for the region's seafood, a mission-driven origin centered on the Pacific Northwest. In 2024, ownership changed to the Hillyer family, allowing founder Larry Mellum to retire and focus on his charity work dedicated to saving Orca whales. This transition ensures the legacy of the award-winning seafood and local hospitality continues to thrive in the alleyway of the market.

Visitor tips

  • Check the official website or app for current hours as they may vary by location.
  • Order for delivery or pickup through the website or app to avoid long lines.
  • If you order online, be aware that there is no seating for online orders due to limited space.
  • Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the lines that often wrap around the block.

Nearby context

Located in Post Alley, this seafood spot is a perfect companion to a walking tour of Pike Place Market, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal while exploring the market's unique shops and vendors.

Sources

Evidence and links