Pike Place Market

Book excerpt: In 1907, Seattle’s farmers and shoppers were angry. The former were being cheated by middlemen, the latter objected to the high price of onions. A city experiment to connect the two groups was proposed, and thus was born the Pike Place Market. One hundred years later, the Market still exemplifies the farm-to-table experience. Its nine acres are home to an amazing array of fresh meat, produce, and fish. What's more, there's even marvelous spice shops, fantastic florists, a Shoe Museum, and a hardware store. This is where Starbucks first tested the nutty idea of gourmet coffee and where Sur la Table sold its first stockpot. Officially commemorating the Market’s centennial, this delightful book is packed with fascinating historical images, seasonal shopping lists, and pointers to lesser known spots. It tells the story of the place rightfully known as "The Soul of Seattle,” its quirky, colorful past, and its vibrant presence in today’s sophisticated city.