HistoryLink Tours

At tour stop No. 1 you stood next to the 1912 Corner Market with its distinct façade displaying graceful arched windows. Now’s your chance to have a look through those windows for some of the most quintessential Market views — the signature neon clock in one direction, and across the Main Arcade to Elliott Bay in the other.

In 1996, Matt Janke opened Matt’s in the Market in a tiny space that had previously drawn coffee hounds as Counter Intelligence (a sign from which now hangs over the bar at Matt’s). It could hold just a handful of diners, with a kitchen that was minimalist to say the least: a couple of burners, one small oven, very little prep space. It’s a scenario in which the chef’s skills and the quality of ingredients are paramount. Both were spot on: it was a hit.

After breaking through a wall and expanding into this gorgeous corner space (previously used by a dating service), the restaurant has been in this new home since 2007. The northern part of the room, where you see the kitchen, was the original footprint — just one-arched-window’s width. Despite now being in a larger space, the Market-driven ethos is still very much in play. Current owner Dan Bugge is a former Market fishmonger; not only does he have a keen sense for quality seafood, he has a direct appreciation for the culture and character of the Market.

Walk back down the stairs and head across Pike Place toward the clock; facing Rachel, to your left will be a nearly-hidden stairway taking you down to a narrow cobble roadway below.