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The History of Chukar Cherries at Pike Place Market

Posted on: Aug 25, 2025 01:23 Pm

Posted By: Amy Morse

Category: Chukar Stories

The History of Chukar Cherries at Pike Place Market

For more than three decades, Chukar Cherries has had a home at Seattle's Pike Place Market, and the Market has been an important part of our story.

Founder and Seattle native Pam Montgomery started Chukar Cherries in 1988 on her family orchard in Prosser, Washington—but Seattle remained close to her heart.

Pam recalls, "Most every Sunday morning when I lived in Seattle I walked down to the Market, passing the Paramount Theater. I'd enjoy breakfast with a view of Elliott Bay, buy my week's vegetables and flowers, and soak in the vendors, sights, and sounds. So when the opportunity arose for us to have a location there, Chukar eagerly signed a lease for part of the old Loback space. Even though our production site was three hours east, we knew Pike Place was where we belonged."

Pike Place Market on Elliott Bay

Today, Chukar is a "pit stop" for locals and tourists alike. Many of our customers first discover us at the Market, where they sample our chocolate cherries and experience a taste of Washington's bounty.

Pike Place itself has a rich history. Since 1907, farmers and artists have come together here to sell directly to the public. Through challenges and change, the Market has remained true to its goal of being a place where Washington makers can sell year-round, allowing consumers to “Meet the Producer”.

Where is Chukar Cherries located in Pike Place Market?

You'll find us in the main arcade at 1529-B Pike Place, under the historic Loback sign. We're just steps from the Market's iconic clock and fish stand. The space was formerly home to Loback's Meat Market, and the famous neon sign remains proudly displayed above our shop.

Do you offer samples at Pike Place Market?

Yes! We offer daily free samples of our freshly made chocolate cherries. Sampling is a highlight of visiting us at the Market: you can try our different dried and chocolate-covered cherries before deciding what to take home (and maybe discover a new favorite!).

Guests sampling Chukar’s chocolate cherries at Pike Place Market — Chocolate cherry samples at our Pike Place store

Is Chukar Cherries a local Washington company?

Absolutely. We're family-owned and have been crafting our products in Washington State since 1988. Our cherries are grown by local farmers in the Pacific Northwest, and everything is made fresh at our factory headquarters in Prosser, Washington—right in the heart of cherry country.

How does Chukar Cherries support the Pike Place Market community?

We donate $2 from every Seattle Souvenir Box sold to the Pike Place Market Foundation. The Foundation supports Market vendors, nearby residents, and the broader Seattle community through programs addressing food access, economic opportunity, and community building—including a free clinic, senior center, low-income housing, and a childcare center.

Can I buy Chukar’s Pike Place Market gifts online?

Yes! You don’t have to be in Seattle to enjoy Pike Place favorites. Explore our Pike Place gift collection to ship anywhere in the U.S. Our Seattle-themed offerings include the Seattle Souvenir Box, Chukar Northwest Box with original Northwest artwork, Cherry Caramel Twists, and our Chukar Souvenir Mug. Each product captures the spirit of Pike Place Market and the cherries of Washington State.

What's changing around Pike Place Market?

October 2024 marked a historic milestone with the opening of the Overlook Walk, creating a connection between Pike Place Market and Seattle's revitalized waterfront. This new pedestrian bridge offers panoramic views and links the Seattle Aquarium's Ocean Pavilion to the Market's MarketFront building.

Come Visit Us!

We’d love to welcome you at Pike Place Market. Stop by to sample our chocolate cherries, browse seasonal gifts, and say hello to the team. Check our store hours and plan your visit!