Pico Cafe and Bakery — Restaurant in Seattle

I decided to take the bus to Ballard for no reason in particular. I had been walking around for a few minutes before I realized that I had forgotten to eat before I left, and there's not that many places to eat between 24th ave and the water. I stumbled upon this cafe looking for a non-committal snack and was surprised to walk into a well-kept cafe with a huge pastry case and menu full of Italian dishes that I can't pronounce at all! I asked about their flavors, and the barista pointed out the largest shelf full of assorted flavors that I've ever seen. After expressing my awe at this outwardly unassuming business and placing my order, the barista handed me a mug that intentionally matched my sweater and asked if I'd like to eat inside or in the garden. Yes, there's a garden. Ignoring the 50-degree weather, I wandered back into the garden not expecting much at all. I was so surprised to see a huge tent with a bar (what?) and tables, and a door leading out into a private garden (WHAT?) with more tables. I honestly couldn't believe my eyes; I had lived a few blocks away in Ballard for 2 years and had no clue that this hidden gem was here! The garden was so quiet and it wasn't busy at all for a Sunday morning- there were also a few heaters outside. I will freely admit to being easily pleased, but Pico exceeded my expectations in every way. The staff were so friendly and seemed genuinely glad to work there, the building itself is spotless and gorgeous and the garden is something out of a fairy tale. Oh, and the food was incredible too, but I came more for the vibe than...

Pico Cafe and Bakery is a return to San Remo, Italy.

This Ballard neighborhood restaurant has it all. Beautiful decor and atmosphere. Amazingly kind and friendly staff and of course great food.

Unfortunately, I did not get the chance to try their Italian cuisine, but if it's anything like there breakfast cafe, I can only imagine how delicious it must be.

I was staying near by and got breakfast here 3 days in a row.

The blueberry crumble muffin is moist and sweet. I always paired it with their sausage roll. The two together with coffee made a light breakfast.

They have every muffin, scone, croissant, cookie that you could want.

The magic of the place was its outdoor garden seating. Like I said it reminded me of eating out in Italy.

If you do come for dinner, come a little earlier, they seem to be popular and it might take a few times around the block to...

*Edit. The past 3 times I have been here have been terrible experiences. I place my coffee and pastry or food oder at the and the staff forgets. I stand there patiently ad others place their orders, collect them and leave. I didn’t get my food today until another patron spoke up for me to tell the staff I’d been waiting. I stay quiet because I don’t want to be that Brown guy making a scene in a white establishment. I gave them initially 5 stars, now down to 1. I called to speak with the manager and the staffer conveniently couldn’t find him. A lovely little cafe and bakery. The items are baked in house. The chocolate croissant, raspberry & blueberry scones, chocolate chip muffin and mozzarella tomato sandwich are my favorites. There’s both indoor and...