A few weeks ago, we re-upped an old series we called “Seattleisms,” where we break down words and phrases that help you sound like a local. (If you missed that newsletter, you can find it here.)
We asked what words and phrases we should do next, and one of the most common responses was the one and only Pike Place Market.
Let us break it down for you.
What is it? A public farmers market that first started in 1907. Millions of people flock to the market every year to purchase farm-fresh goods, crafts from local artists, and to experience one of the country’s oldest continuously run farmers markets.
People who add an ‘s’ to Pike Place Market immediately stand out as newbies to the city and will be quickly reprimanded by the nearest local within earshot. The market is named after the street it’s on Pike Place, not Pike’s Place. It is also acceptable to call Pike Place Market simply, “the Market.”
Known for: There are a number of vendors and small businesses in the market that have been serving the people of Seattle and all its visitors for decades.
Here are just four of the market’s oldest institutions and why you should check them out on your next trip:
- Pike Place Fish — Yes, this is the home of the “flying fish.” These fishmongers have been hawking their goods since 1930, but didn’t start throwing fish until one day they realized they could save a few extra steps.
- O-Mart — If you’ve been craving Filipino food look no further than this stall where you can buy knick-knacks and get a bowl of salmon collar sinigang and a heaping plate of longanisa. The shop has been around since 1971, while the food side of things didn’t start until 1987. Last year they won a James Beard Award.
- The Athenian — You too can sit where director Rob Reiner once sat at this casual seafood joint when he was making “Sleepless in Seattle.” The restaurant was started by three Greek brothers back in 1909 and is still going strong.
- Golden Age Collectables — Embrace your inner geek at what is thought to be the world’s oldest comic shop. Started in 1961, a loyal 19-year-old customer was sold the shop in 1971 and he’s run it ever since.
Fun fact: The “Original Starbucks” at 1912 Pike Place isn’t actually the coffee chain’s first location. The original store first opened at 2000 Western Ave., but relocated in 1976 to where it is today.
Usage: “Wanna go to the Market and grab some BBQ pork buns?”