Ivar’s: Seattle's Iconic Waterfront Seafood Experience
Revel in the History and Views at Seattle's Original Ivar's Restaurant - Home of the City's Most Iconic Fish n' Chips
Ask any Seattleite for classic local dining recommendations, and one of the first answers will surely be Ivar’s on the waterfront. This flagship location carries on the long legacy founder Ivar Haglund started when he began selling fish ‘n chips from Pier 54 in 1938.
Today, Ivar’s restaurant still sits in the same prime spot along Seattle’s bustling central waterfront, keeping Ivar’s original charm alive along with its renowned seafood. Inside and out, unbeatable Elliott Bay views pair with the restaurant’s signature clams, chowders, and fish that made Ivar’s famous generations ago.
From Aquarium to Dining Destination
Before opening his iconic restaurant, founder Ivar Haglund first attracted visitors to Pier 54 in 1938 with a quirky, marine-themed aquarium housed on the same wooden pier. It became known for Ivar's silly promotional antics like phone booth stuffing contests. Though Ivar’s no longer houses sea creatures, diners can still soak in the location's rich history as the same site that once held one of Seattle's earliest public aquariums before being converted to Seattle’s first Ivar’s eatery.
Traditional Favorites with a View
Despite the chain’s growth, the no-fuss ambiance and menu at this Seattle flagship stay true to Ivar Haglund’s original vision. Belly up to the counter or grab a table to tuck into golden fish n’ chips, steaming bowls of creamy clam chowder, or Ivar’s special salmon house salad.
With floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor seating on the pier, meals become extra special when paired with panoramic scenes of ferries crisscrossing Elliott Bay against the city skyline backdrop. On clear days, enjoy watching the Olympic Mountains rise across the sound too.
Soaking in the History
Beyond the plates of seafood, the Seattle Ivar’s location invites visitors to soak in its status as the first, longest-running location. Historic photos, murals, and memorabilia cover the walls, commemorating Ivar Haglund’s personality and establishment of his iconic local chain.
Your Next Waterfront Dining Destination
Continuing the legacy Ivar started over 80 years ago, his Seattle restaurant remains a must-visit destination for outstanding local seafood in an unbeatable waterfront setting. Enjoy the history as much as the food and views when you visit Ivar’s original home on Pier 54.