Seattle: Place Pigalle (August 2014)

My spouse and I visited Place Pigalle on a Sunday afternoon in early August 2014. We did not have a reservation, although the restaurant participates in the Open Table reservation system. At our request, the hostess sat us on the tiny terrace on the side of the restaurant (near its entrance door) that overlooks the Pike Hill Climb at the back of the market. The terrace offers a unique perspective to view at the BACK of the famous Pike Place Market sign, and it offers al fresco diners a glimpse of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.

Place Pigalle, which has operated for 17 years, is nearly hidden behind the Pike Place Market. The restaurant does not offer parking or valet services; however, guests can park in the market garage, or on a nearby street. Guests must walk up / down a few steps to access both the terrace and the interior of this restaurant. Both the indoor space and the outdoor spaces are small, although a mirrored wall in the cozy dining room gives the illusion of space. The interior dining room contains a small bar, and its tables afford a window view of the bay and mountains.

The restaurant serves French cuisine, with traditional favorites like moules-frites, escargot, oysters, onion soup, bouillabaisse, pate, cassoulet, and duck confit. However, Place Pigalle also serves continental fare like salads, sandwiches, and crab cakes.

Although we only enjoyed drinks (and the view) at Place Pigalle, our server was extremely friendly and helpful. We would return!