Pike Place Market - the motherland

I headed straight to Pike Place Market this morning and spent almost three hours just walking around and taking it in. I think I've covered maybe half. Pike Place Fish is famous for throwing fish (whole and HUGE) from the displays up front to the cashiers. It's fun to watch! There are lots of fish markets and produce stands, cheese-makers, a million restaurants that take about ten steps farm-to-table of any style of food you can imagine. I'm in food heaven.

Lunch was at Pike Place Chowder, where the smoked salmon chowder warmed me back up from the damp chill out today. They have the top rated clam chowder in the U.S., along with several other varieties including the special of the day, oyster and clam with chorizo.

I've made a habit of asking locals what restaurants they like, what to see and do, and everyone had been very friendly and helpful. I bought some fruit to snack on from two guys at a produce stand, and after talking to them about what it's like to live here - rather than just visit like a tourist - I think I'm sold. Seattle is a city with so much to do, but not overwhelmingly populated like other places. They worship food, local business and have a lot of civic pride. The people are diverse but respectful of all viewpoints, and very friendly. The rainy weather is often overstated according to one shopkeeper, and never goes over 85 or below 35. It's easy to look past drizzle and grey clouds with so much vibrancy around you. Add in ample transit and spotlessly clean surroundings in natural beauty, and this may be my favorite large city.

I'm taking a short break this afternoon to rest my aching knee and warm up. Not sure where we'll end up for dinner, but we'll be at the market!