When I first announced my travel plans to Seattle, John over at Travel Rinse Repeat offered up a gift card to Piroshky Piroshky. Not only was I grateful that someone I never met would be so kind, but I was also stoked because I had heard that this food establishment was a master in their craft.

Piroshky Piroshky, located at Pike Place Market, specializes in Russian Piroshkys, buns that are fried or baked and stuffed with a variety of fillings.

After snacking on the thinnest slices of beef tongue, I was in need of a calorie-infested indulgence.

Piroshky Piroshky is one of the smallest eateries I have seen, just a few stools inside. But, in this case, size does not matter.

There was only a handful of items to choose from on the menu, but I still had a difficult time deciding.

Thankfully, the Potato & Cheese and Beef & Onion were a recommendation. And there was no doubt that they were fresh, because dozens were being made right in front of me. The buns were flaky and warm, the filling well seasoned and, even if I didn’t have a gift card, they were cheap at 4 bucks.

The restaurateur in me was envious of this operation; a limited menu with few employees and a tiny location. I could do this. And be very happy.

I spotted the Cinnamon Cardamom Braid in the case and knew there was no option but to return the next morning for one…or two.

My cinnamon braid was going to go perfect with a cappuccino from the Original Starbucks which was just a few doors down.

I was just one year old when it opened in 1971. Too young for coffee, unless it could be snuck into my baby bottle.

The interior wasn’t that of the typical stream-lined Starbucks that I am used to. This one seemed more rustic, more…original.

Of course, it wouldn’t be the Pike Place Market area if there weren’t souvenirs, which I did NOT buy. I took pictures of the souvenirs instead.

Happily waiting for our caffeine fix. Actually, mine was decaf.

Have you ever had a piroshky? What do you think of the Original Starbucks?

I still have about $10 left on my Piroshky Piroshky gift card. Any takers?