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Best of Downtown Seattle

Clam chowder lunch spots

A bowl of clam chowder is a warm, thick comfort during a midday break. It is a hearty way to settle in for an hour.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Place Pigalle image 1
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Restaurant

Cozy restaurant offers French cuisine with white tablecloths and live jazz music. Elegant, relaxed atmosphere features scenic water views from a tucked-away spot in a historic market area. The vibe is dark and intimate, blending classic charm with fresh seafood and fine wines.

French Dip sandwich stands out as an extraordinary lunch option served only during midday. The Pate also offers a solid choice for lunch or dinner. Staff remain gracious even during kitchen changeovers.

Saffron adds a unique flavor to the clam chowder, creating a nice balance between different tastes. The chowder features very good clams and seafood, making it stand out in the Pacific Northwest.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the onion soup, is divine and rich."

"This Lunch Spot has gorgeous views of the water."

"I thought the saffron clam chowder was possibly the best I've eaten."

Good to know

1

An automatic 27% fee is added to all bills instead of tips.

2

A meal for two costs around $90.

3

The restaurant is located on the second or third floor of the market.

02
Market Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot with minimal seating and a grill visible from the counter. Atmosphere is vibrant and busy, with long queues during peak times and lively foot traffic for people watching. Outdoor seating offers views of the water but is modest compared to the indoor experience.

Crowds and outdoor seating create a lively atmosphere for a quick lunch. The spot offers dependable and amazing lunch options that satisfy consistently.

New England clam chowder here stands out for its rich, creamy texture and fresh clams. It pairs well with oyster crackers and brown rice, offering a warm, satisfying meal alongside seafood sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super tasty and fresh."

"I found the blackened salmon sandwich to be delicious and fresh."

"The blackened salmon sandwich is a delicious Lunch Spot choice."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served before 10am, making it a great option for early risers.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch hours; arrive early to avoid the rush.

3

Seating is extremely limited, so plan to eat elsewhere if it's crowded.

03
The Athenian Seafood Restaurant And Bar image 1

Small, cramped space inside a historic market offers breathtaking waterfront views and a funky bar atmosphere. Energy is lively with people-watching and loud conversations, creating a vibrant vibe. Known for excellent seafood and drinks, it draws crowds despite limited seating.

Offers a breathtaking view during lunch, making it a great spot to relax. Fits well for both solo visits and meals with friends while exploring the market.

Creamy and comforting clam chowder stands out here, often served in a bread bowl. It pairs well with other seafood like crab legs and mussels, offering a rich and satisfying flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the waterfront."

"I had the best clam chowder I have ever had."

"This Lunch Spot's seafood pasta was amazing and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not take reservations, so expect a wait during busy times.

2

Happy hour runs until 6pm with food and drink specials.

3

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

04
The Hart and the Hunter image 1

Rustic old hunting club style blends with chic retro diner design in a calm, quiet dining room. Tight booth seating and inviting ambience create a cozy yet intimate setting. Soul music plays softly, enhancing the relaxed vibe without overpowering conversation.

Quick service stands out during late lunch visits. The spot handles large groups smoothly and serves both lunch and breakfast options during the week.

Offers a super creamy, delicious flavor with a large, filling portion during happy hour. Prices stay affordable compared to other local options, making it a solid choice for clam chowder.

People are saying

"The biscuits here are amazing, buttery, and heavenly."

"The Clam Chowder here is super creamy and delicious."

"You have to try the warm, moist biscuits at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on select items from 4-6pm daily.

2

A prix fixe menu is available from Thursday to Sunday.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy weekend brunch hours.

05
Ivar's Pier 54 Fish Bar image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant on a pier offers outdoor seating with bay views and historic wood decor. Atmosphere is busy and lively, with seagulls frequently present around outdoor tables. Dining includes heated covered areas and tables overlooking water, creating a classic waterfront experience.

Early lunches start at 10am with seating on a patio. The spot offers a chance to feed seagulls while dining outdoors.

Clam chowder comes creamy and thick, packed with chunks of clams and potatoes. It often arrives in a sourdough bread bowl, either filled or served on the side.

People are saying

"I loved their fish and chips and creamy clam chowder."

"The clam chowder here is so creamy and rich."

"The fish tacos and jumbo prawns at this Lunch Spot are divine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long lines on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers discounts on food and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, but outdoor seating attracts seagulls.

06
Alaskan Sourdough Bakery image 1

Quaint bakery with a western, old-timey feel and historical mining photos on the walls. Atmosphere is cozy and charming with banjo music adding to the ambiance. Known for exceptional sourdough bread and a quiet space away from the bustle.

Offers breakfast and lunch all day with lots of choices. Provides quick lunches around $7, making it a convenient spot on the waterfront.

Clam chowder comes in a New England style served in a sourdough bread bowl. The chowder is rich and creamy, prompting many to go back for seconds.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are so delicious and fresh."

"The sourdough bread here is to die for."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

They serve breakfast and lunch all day.

2

Seating is limited, especially during busy hours.

3

Half sandwich options are available for smaller appetites.

07
Six Seven Restaurant image 1
Pacific Northwest restaurant (US)

Restaurant offers breathtaking water views and a classic setting with comfortable seating. Outdoor dining includes heated patio space, often accompanied by live music. Cocktails receive attention from skilled bartenders, enhancing a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

Outdoor dining on the deck offers a waterfront view and a sunny atmosphere. The space suits special occasions like birthdays.

Rich and creamy clam chowder stands out with its incredible flavor that impresses even non-chowder fans. It pairs well with fresh bread and complements other seafood dishes like scallops and crab.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing views of the water and the Olympics."

"I've never had better clam chowder; it's so chunky and meaty."

"The food here is great, especially the cob salad with salmon and shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour prices for drinks are a couple of dollars off.

2

The restaurant is often fully booked, so making a reservation is recommended.

3

Valet parking costs $15 for dining.

08
Lowell's Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Waterfront views and a full-service bar on upper floors create a lively setting. Crowded and cramped seating contrasts with great Bloody Marys and fresh seafood options. Self-serve drinks and Apple Pay add convenience amid a busy atmosphere.

Lunch offers incredible, filling food with amazing views of Pike Market. Seating by the window suits groups well.

Creamy clam chowder features lots of clam and just a bit of potato. Serving it in a bread bowl stands out as a highlight.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing ocean views from the third story."

"The clam chowder has a great view."

"This lunch spot has an awesome view, especially from upstairs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a 30-40 minute wait for tables during weekend brunch hours.

3

The restaurant opens for lunch at 12 pm, so plan accordingly.

09
Jack's Fish Spot image 1
Seafood restaurant

Market kiosk with cramped seating and close-up views of fish butchery creates an authentic seafood vibe. Atmosphere carries a Seattle grunge feel with lively market noise and tight quarters. Fresh seafood is central, though seating is limited and space is small.

Lines form quickly, showing its popularity as a lunch spot. The clam chowder stands out as a solid choice, especially on chilly days. The atmosphere suits a casual midday meal.

Clam chowder stands out with a perfect balance, not too salty or buttery. It comes without bacon, catering to those avoiding pork, and costs less than typical tourist spots.

People are saying

"This seafood chowder is creamy, rich, and comforting."

"I found the clam chowder to be the best I've ever had."

"The clam chowder at this Lunch Spot is creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 10 AM.

2

Prices are generally affordable compared to other spots in Pike Place.

3

Finding seating can be challenging during busy hours.

10
Mr. Fish Chips & Chowder image 1

Outdoor patio offers beautiful views and people watching opportunities. Atmosphere feels fun and friendly with a casual family vibe. Seating includes small indoor tables and a large terrace for al fresco dining.

Lunch here suits small groups well, offering a chance to catch up with friends. The setting supports relaxed conversations and shared meals.

Heavy on clams rather than flour or water, the chowder offers a rich, hearty texture. Served in a sourdough bread bowl with bacon option, it pairs well with added house seasoning from the table.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here were delicious and well-seasoned."

"I found the clam chowder to be delicious and excellent."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with $2 oysters available.

2

Parking can be a hassle near Pike Place Market.

3

The restaurant stays open until 7 PM after 5 PM.

11
Emmett Watson's Oyster Bar image 1

Small, tucked-away restaurant with a retro feel and a quiet garden patio offers a cozy, old-school Seattle vibe. Casual and friendly atmosphere pairs with great background music and waves of guests enjoying fresh local oysters and cold drinks.

A solid spot for a late lunch with a casual vibe. Offers a good break during the day without fuss.

Clam chowder here is thick but creamy with a flavorful homemade taste. It avoids being too salty or heavy on potatoes, making it a well-balanced option.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fantastic and surprisingly affordable."

"The clam chowder here is thick and flavorful."

"The oysters at this Lunch Spot are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour oysters are available for $2 each with a minimum order of six.

2

The restaurant is tucked away in the north end of Pike Place Market.

3

Oysters are sourced from local indigenous tribes, ensuring quality and ethical practices.

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