Seattle’s rainy reputation has a silver lining – it’s the perfect weather for enjoying a steaming bowl of chowder. The Emerald City’s waterfront location means access to the freshest seafood, creating chowder experiences that redefine comfort food. From historic fish houses to modern seafood bars, these 10 spots serve up bowls that will forever change your soup expectations.
1. Pike Place Chowder
Award-winning doesn’t begin to describe this Pike Place Market gem. Lines form daily for their signature New England clam chowder that’s scooped up nearly 4 million national and international awards.
The secret? Sustainable seafood and a recipe that balances creamy richness with tender clams that actually taste like the ocean. Their bread bowls – hollowed-out sourdough filled to the brim – transform eating soup into an immersive experience.
Pro tip: Skip the longest lines by visiting during off-hours or ordering online for pickup. Their seafood bisque deserves equal attention if you’re making a return visit.
2. Ivar’s Acres of Clams
Seattle history lives in every spoonful at this waterfront institution that’s been serving chowder since 1938. Founder Ivar Haglund’s legacy continues with recipes that haven’t changed in generations – and for good reason.
Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning Elliott Bay views while you savor their signature white clam chowder. The broth strikes that perfect balance between creamy and briny, with generous potato chunks and tender clams.
What makes it special? Perhaps it’s the fresh sea air, the occasional seagull visitor on the deck, or simply decades of perfecting a Seattle classic that makes this spot a must-visit for chowder enthusiasts.
3. Lowell’s Restaurant
“Almost classy since 1957” is the cheeky slogan at this three-story Pike Place Market fixture where the chowder comes with a side of history. Once a coffee roaster and later a sailors’ hangout, Lowell’s now serves some of Seattle’s most memorable seafood.
Their smoked salmon chowder breaks tradition in the best way possible. Chunks of local salmon replace clams in a creamy base with hints of smokiness that perfectly complement the fish. The restaurant’s worn wooden floors and vintage photos create an atmosphere as authentic as the food.
Grab a window seat for panoramic Elliott Bay views that rival any fancy Seattle restaurant – but at half the price.
4. Elliott’s Oyster House
Seafood royalty awaits at this Pier 56 landmark where the chowder game reaches artistic levels. Unlike other spots focusing solely on New England-style, Elliott’s offers both white and red variations that showcase Pacific Northwest flavors.
Their signature comes loaded with fresh-shucked Manila clams – shell and all – giving each spoonful an intensely oceanic flavor that transported directly from tide to table. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainable seafood means you’re tasting the Puget Sound’s bounty at its ethical best.
Maritime decor surrounds you while Elliott Bay laps against the pier below. Come during happy hour for discounted chowder and oysters that would make Neptune himself jealous.
5. Salty’s on Alki Beach
Morning sunshine transforms their award-winning seafood chowder into a spiritual experience at this West Seattle institution. While most visitors come for the legendary weekend brunch buffet, those in the know order a bowl of their signature creation regardless of the hour.
Unlike traditional recipes, Salty’s version incorporates multiple seafood treasures – salmon, cod, and shellfish – creating a maritime medley that celebrates Pacific Northwest waters. The panoramic downtown Seattle skyline view across Elliott Bay provides the perfect backdrop for this flavor explosion.
Ask for a window table or outdoor seating when weather permits. Their chowder pairs wonderfully with local Washington wines from their extensive list.
6. Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar
Farm-to-table reaches oceanic heights at this family-owned operation where the shellfish in your chowder likely came from their own beds that morning. Fifth-generation shellfish farmers transform their fresh-harvested clams into a chowder that tastes like distilled essence of Puget Sound.
The minimalist Capitol Hill location lets the seafood speak for itself. Their geoduck chowder – featuring the Northwest’s famous giant clam – offers a unique texture and flavor you won’t find elsewhere. The broth skews lighter than most, allowing the delicate shellfish flavors to shine.
Watch oyster shuckers work their magic at the bar while you wait. True seafood lovers should pair their chowder with a sampler of raw oysters from different Washington waters.
7. The Crab Pot Seattle
Seafood boils might be their claim to fame, but locals know The Crab Pot’s chowder deserves equal billing. Waterfront dining on Pier 57 provides the perfect nautical atmosphere for their unique take on the classic soup.
Crab meat – not just clams – stars in their signature bowl, offering sweet chunks that balance perfectly with the creamy potato base. The restaurant’s fishing boat decor and communal tables create a lively atmosphere that feels quintessentially Seattle.
Families love the casual vibe and generous portions. For the ultimate experience, start with a cup of chowder before diving into one of their famous seafood boils dumped directly onto your table – just remember to wear the provided bib!
8. Westward
Lakeside dining with a Mediterranean twist makes this North Lake Union spot’s chowder unlike any other in Seattle. The nautical-themed restaurant – complete with boat-shaped bar and Adirondack chairs facing the water – creates an atmosphere that’s equal parts whimsy and sophistication.
Their smoky Manila clam chowder incorporates unexpected ingredients like chorizo and preserved lemon, creating a Spanish-influenced flavor profile that will forever change your chowder expectations. Fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil finish each bowl with aromatic flair.
Summer visitors can enjoy their chowder on the beach with stunning views of downtown Seattle across the lake. During colder months, the wood-fired oven keeps the indoor space cozy while you warm up with their innovative take on a Seattle classic.
9. Daniel’s Broiler
Luxury meets tradition at this upscale steakhouse where the seafood chowder competes with prime cuts for menu dominance. With three waterfront locations – Lake Union, Leschi, and downtown – Daniel’s offers Seattle’s most elegant chowder experience.
Their lobster-based creation arrives with a splash of sherry and cream, topped with delicate micro-greens and a hint of truffle oil. The rich broth contains generous chunks of lobster, Dungeness crab, and local clams – essentially the ocean’s finest treasures in one bowl.
Piano music often provides the soundtrack to this refined dining experience. While the price point exceeds typical chowder spots, the combination of impeccable service, breathtaking water views, and luxurious ingredients justifies the splurge for special occasions.
10. Pike Place Chowder – Capitol Hill
Lightning strikes twice with this second location of Seattle’s chowder champion. While the original market spot draws tourists, this Capitol Hill outpost serves the same award-winning recipes with shorter lines and local neighborhood vibes.
Their chowder flight offers the perfect introduction – four sample-sized portions letting you compare their New England classic alongside seafood bisque, smoked salmon chowder, and rotating seasonal specials. The consistency between locations proves their quality control is as impressive as their recipes.
Located in the historic Broadway Market building, this spot offers indoor seating year-round. Their market chowder – featuring whatever looked best at Pike Place that morning – demonstrates why this Seattle institution has earned international recognition for transforming simple soup into transcendent experience.
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