Soak Up the Vibes at This Pike Place Market-Adjacent French Bistro
Le Pichet opened in 2000, but it feels much older than that, a rustic, lived-in French bistro in the middle of the busiest part of Seattle.
What to order
- The chicken liver terrine is a special treat — smooth, creamy, just a hint of organ-y stank. It’s also a litmus test, since if you don’t enjoy it, you may be in the wrong restaurant.
- Another classic is the humble bibb salad, served with a hazelnut vinaigrette that adds a little nutty complexity to simple, bright greens.
- If you’re here for brunch, try the beignets, airy treats that combine goat cheese with sugar. The cheese provides a savory edge, without overpowering the beignets.
The vibe
Le Pichet has charmingly refused to adapt to the times. You can still make dinner reservations by calling the restaurant, the menus are still paper, and the specials are still hand-written on a chalkboard. The lighting doesn’t lend itself to food photos either, so maybe just put your phone down for an hour?
Insider tip
Le Pichet is open fairly long hours seven days a week, but until the menu switches over to dinner at 5 p.m., your options for a big meal focused around an entree are limited. That’s okay: It’s more fun to build a snacky meal of charcuterie and pate, served all day, with maybe a glass of wine or two.
