Bars We Love - November 22, 2007

THE TACOMA CLUB: Perched on the 16th Floor of the Well's Fargo building, the stoic faces of Tacoma's founding fathers greet you as you enter this hidden gem of a lounge. The Tacoma Club may be private, but if you can latch on to a member for entry, you'll be treated like family. The rooms are reminiscent of a bygone era, as is the service. General Manager, Jonny, dresses to the nines, carries a pocket watch on a gold chain and always charms the clientele. The views are outstanding, the bartenders witty and the food delectable. 1201 Pacific Avenue, 16th

THE SWISS PUB: A legend in this town, the Swiss, is still the number one answer to "what do you wanna do tonight?" One of the few places left in town where you can hear live music, shoot pool, throw down decent grub and partake of a full bar, the Swiss is running like a finely tuned machine, and serving throngs of Tacomans from 21 to 71 every weekend. Whenever I feel like socializing, meeting new people, and behaving like I just turned 21, the Swiss still smiles and let's me in. 1904 Jefferson Avenue

BEN DEW'S CLUBHOUSE GRILL: Sometimes, you just want to pull up to a place, park your car without a hassle and get a goddamn drink. Ben Dew's is just what the doctor ordered. A haven for drivers waiting out Narrows Bridge traffic, or working folks stopping for a quick one on the way home, the lounge at Ben Dew's is perpetually packed. The crowd may be just past their prime, and are way too loud, but they are the friendliest group of goofballs you'd every want to drink with. 6501 6th Avenue

C.I. SHENANIGANS: Upscale, polished, and offering a happy hour that can't be beat, Shenanigans is the ideal place to go for drinks with coworkers, clients or hey, even friends. Buy one get one free appetizers? Yeah, that's right. Buy an order of organic kalbi chicken wings (yum, yum!) and the pesto Panini is free. Microbrews from Bighorn Brewery are just $3 at Happy Hour (try the Porter), well drinks just three bucks too. Sitting at the bar, looking out at Commencement Bay and sipping on a cold one....sign me up. 3017 Ruston Way

HARBOR LIGHTS: Generations of Tacoma natives know where to find the toughest drink in town (and believe me, that's a good thing). Rivaled only by the Hob Nob, Harbor Lights makes cocktails for customers who know what they want. These waitresses have been slinging drinks for years, and are true professionals, but what keeps me coming back are the patrons. Harbor Lights is the finest place in town for witnessing senior citizens acting the fool. After all, this is the place your Grandparents come to get their shine on. And do they ever. 2761 Ruston Way.

The Resurrection of Highland Hill - August 10, 2007

Highland Hill seems to be on the fast track to joining hands with lower 6th Avenue in the realms of fresh new dining experiences, innovative retail outlets and funky apartments. Old standbys are taking their leave, as new businesses emerge in this north Tacoma neighborhood. The exact parameters of Highland Hill are debated locally, so for simplicities sake, the area I’ll be writing about is the stretch of 6th Avenue between Pearl and Jackson. This slice of Tacoma accommodates affordable single family homes, apartment complexes, shopping, dining, boozing and even family entertainment options.
Major renovations to the Highland Hills shopping complex last year were the first sign of impending growth. When the quintessential old-school Chinese restaurant, Monsing, closed its doors for good, and a Money Tree took its place, we all knew what was going down. Shortly thereafter Panda Express and Bigfoot Java chains opened in the parking lot, followed by the much anticipated arrival of the first and only Carl’s Jr. in the South Sound. Soon, Dinner’s Done Right will be joining in the fun, offering "cook and carry cuisine"; I hear nothing but rave reviews.
A stand alone fixture in the lot, where Lamont’s once stood, is Gottschalk’s Department Store. But not for long. August 2007 will mark the end of the department store’s residence, making way for an LA Fitness Center. While Gottschalk’s will be missed, specifically the Lancome counter, a new gym is, indeed, a good thing.
Across 6th Avenue, Super Supplements is building its Tacoma location, opening September 1st. Sharing the space is styling salon, Tight Cuts; a franchise whose slogan is "skilled scissors and slow massage", ewww. Sounds like the Hooters of haircuts.
Just up the road, Bella Vita opened their doors July 27th to an invitation-only crowd. Billed as an Italian Ristorante and Ultra Lounge, this building had humble beginnings as a Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, turned live music venue, turned casino. Every seat in the house was spoken for at the Grand Opening, and folks generally looked pleased. The former chef for the Blue Olive has found a new home at Bella Vita, which is a definite plus for this establishment. The space is decked out with a dance floor, a DJ booth, and semi private booths; though I’m not sure if I should be expecting a chill, techno, hip hop or jazz atmosphere, as during my visit I heard only the faint strains of Tom Petty. Of note, the proud owner of Bella Vita is the very man who brought you Area 151 on South Tacoma Way and the short lived Silhouettes Nightclub.
After checking out the new digs, we walked a few doors down to the other belle on the block, family owned Bella Nina’s Ristorante Italiano. We sat in the bar where bartender, Mona, served a killer vodka tonic and fascinating repartee. While I get the distinct feeling they are not thrilled with their new neighbor’s moniker, they exude confidence in their survival due to their fine food, reputation and longevity.
On the other side of Bella Vita will be the brand new, Opa! Greek Cuisine. Originally built as a Rib Eye Steakhouse in the 1960’s, and more recently the never-quite-on-its-feet, Break Room, hopes are high that a successful Opa! becomes a permanent fixture in this location. I’ve heard several stories surrounding the ownership of Opa! One being that this is an extension of the Seattle based, Costas Greek Opa, the other being that this venture is owned by the very entrepreneur that brought you Bella Vita. Busy guy!
Highland Hill still offers Tacoma dining classics, such as Ben Dew’s Clubhouse, where you can indulge in a mean corned beef hash breakfast with one of the finest bloody Mary’s in town. Cloverleaf Pizza isn’t going anywhere either. Their top secret sauce has made them famous throughout the South Sound, some say the world, and I must agree.
Dining isn’t all the Hill has to offer, if it’s entertainment you’re looking for, the options remain unchanged…for now. Tower Inn and Lanes is always good for a rainy afternoon, whether it’s bowling or miniature golf you’re after. If you’re seeking something a little bit more refined, head west towards the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. The productions here never, ever disappoint. Disney’s Beauty and Beast is on right now, ending August 4th, so get out there and support local theater!
Looking for new digs? The apartment complexes atop Highland Hill evoke nostalgia for the swinging 60’s. The balconies looking down at the Narrows, with names like the Lanai, Miramar and Viewcrest Terrace, suggest the bachelor pad cool era of Doris Day and Rock Hudson. I imagine bossanova filling the courtyard each time I drive by.
The blending of contemporary lounges, seasoned classics, refurbished homes, retro apartments, shopping and the arts, creates an exhilarating vibe in the air. I feel it every day, and speaking as a neighbor, I can hardly wait to see what happens next.

Old School Chinese - June 14, 2007

Was it that long ago? It’s hard to admit how fast time flies, and how much older I’m getting every year. It seems like only last year, my parents were rounding up my four older brothers and I into the station wagon for a “special” dinner out. We’d climb into the Country Squire and drive up north to a Chinese restaurant adjacent to the Fred Meyer. Emblazoned dragons lined the walls, ornate gold trim abounding, fat bronzed Buddha bellies to rub for luck; it was a whole new world for our Afghan/Norwegian family (yeah, try to beat that combination).

My father would order up a feast of Kung Pao, Moo Shoo, Chow Mein, fried rice, sweet and sour anything, and of course; Egg Drop Soup. There was no real flavor to speak of, but plenty of bright colors, strange mushrooms, baby corn, and the spinny tray at the center of the table. All of this finished off by the much anticipated fortune cookie. It was a night of wonder for us kids.

Then I grew up.

And my taste buds led me towards a nice fresh piece of seared tuna, or a bowl of steaming hot Pho rather than the fried, dyed Chinese food of yester-year. Once in a while, however…I have an undeniable urge to grab some old school Chinese. Lately in fact, I’ve been shirking my deep love of Pan Asian cuisine for the Asian food of my childhood. Call it a mid-life crisis or sorts, but I’m looking for what we had back then. Where is the deep fried almond chicken with the horribly coagulated gravy? Where’s the FD&C #3 neon-red sweet and sour?

I have to tell you that I do remember, just a year ago, dining at the Monsing, a Tacoma landmark that offered up fabulous old school Chinese, with a lounge that served drinks rivaling the stiffy’s served at Harbor Lights. Unfortunately, they’ve since closed, though I’m not sure why. Perhaps due to all of the construction on Sixth Avenue, perhaps due to the drive-through Panda Express that opened up in their parking lot. Whatever the reason, it was a sad day for us 30+ something’s that fondly remember the place.

Thus, I was forced to search for a replacement retro-Chinese venue. On the recommendation of several friends, I drove to Lieu’s in Parkland. The Mongolian Beef was spicy, not-too-spicy, tender and devoured. The egg drop soup was perhaps the best I’ve ever tried. Though, somehow the experience itself wasn’t what I had hoped for. I felt rushed, and on display (sitting smack dab in the middle of the bright dining room), which somewhat tainted the ambiance for me.

My next foray took me to the Jade Palace in University Place. While I highly recommend the appetizer plate; I just didn’t get the vibe I was looking for in yet another strip mall eatery. The place was packed, the food decent, but not like I remember.

Speaking of strip mall Chinese, I had to try the Great Wall Casino on 38^th Street in Tacoma. We may have been the only two in the restaurant, but the casino was swarming with folks ready to get lucky. We decided to bet on the Hong Kong style Chow Mein. Readers, this Chow Mein is brilliant! Baked and crispy on top, saucy and rich under the crust, you’ll be fighting over the last thin noodle.

Granted, there are many, many Chinese restaurants in the South Sound that I did not try (sorry, but that would take me years), however, I did find a place that I can call home.

The stand-alone building located at 6805 6^th Avenue in Tacoma is home to the Imperial Dragon Restaurant, which, in my humble opinion, is the one and only true “old school” Chinese place left in town.

As you cross the foot bridge leading you to the front door, you’ll be eagerly greeted by the resident Koi who live in the pond below. They’re an enthusiastic bunch, always clamoring for attention. The charming fish are a draw for me, as I constantly have to drag myself away from them to approach the heavy wooden doors that will lead you to the dining room. The atmosphere is authentic, and the décor expected. There are many nights I’ve felt privileged to witness Chinese wedding parties celebrating recent nuptials here, everyone dressed to the nines and all smiles. Lovely.

The food is everything I remember. Almond Fried Chicken with beige gravy, shrimp fried rice with chunks of egg and peas, Moo Goo Gai Pan dotted with crunchy water chestnuts, and soy drenched Kung Pao beef just like I had as a kid. The booths are lipstick red vinyl, the green tea is hot, chop sticks aren’t a special request and the lounge has karaoke rocking every weekend. Let’s hope Imperial Dragon can survive Tacoma’s restaurant renaissance. This is the place to get your Old School fix.

Bitter Valentine - February 9, 2006

Another Valentines Day is approaching and here you are, minus one soul mate. Whether you just broke up, or are a career single, Valentines Day is no friend of yours. So forget all of those sappy couples, arrow-wielding cherubs and St. Valentine himself. There are better ways to spend the day.
Let’s bypass the bitter rant about how Valentines Day was concocted by Hallmark’s Marketing Department and deal with the reality of the day…because it’s not going anywhere. We’re destined to spend the rest of our lives facing down twinkly red heart antennas, singing roses and mortifying novelty boxer shorts that sneak their way onto the shelves right after Christmas. That does not, however, mean that you need to rejoice in the day, it simply wasn’t intended for the lovelorn.
The Anti-Valentine camp is growing a little every year, adding fresh, new ideas on ways to spend the day. From strip clubs, to pity parties, to Spell Casting seminars, Valentines Day is an opportunity to broaden your lonely horizons.
For the broken hearted and angry, let’s start with the basics; violence is never the answer. Even the best laid out plans can go horribly wrong and you don’t want to end up in jail…you wouldn’t like it there. Violence towards a hand crafted voodoo doll however, is perfectly acceptable. Even encouraged. Wishing ill-will on your ex is all well and good. The occasional gypsy curse is fine, but for hands-on payback; check out www.revengeunlimited.com for everything from dead roses to black mouth candy. Or you could just stick to the tried and true, and send them a subscription to "Living with Venereal Disease" monthly (make sure it goes to their work address).
For those of us who aren’t motivated by retribution, spending this romantic evening at a local dive is the perfect antidote to Valentines Day. The more ghetto the tavern, the better the night will be…trust me on this. By avoiding the nicer joints on V-Day, you can surely circumvent Mr. & Mrs. Kiss-Kiss fawning over cocktails, surprise wedding proposals and the elated giggles of enamored couples everywhere. Not to mention, the crappier the bar, the bigger the ego boost for you. So, gather up your likeminded friends, monopolize the jukebox at your favorite watering hole and hunker down for the night. Who knows, you might even meet your soul mate.

Puyallup Fair - September 8, 2005

The nights are getting cooler, the days a little shorter and there’s a buzz in the air. Something exciting is coming to town. Better than just a circus or a rodeo, it’s an all inclusive festival we simply call The Fair. Short for the Puyallup Fair and officially titled, The Western Washington Fair, it is the largest single attraction held annually in Washington State.
It’s the last bastion of summer, a post labor day celebration that leads us through the seasons with wild rides, barnyard animals and ridiculously large produce. Some folks go for the food, some for the music, and some for the rides. There’s something for absolutely everyone at the Fair. For $10 you’ll gain access to entertainment, hobby halls, demonstrations, competitions and priceless people watching. $10 seem a little high? Head on over on opening day (September 9th) and admission is free from 10 to noon. Active, reserve or retired military? You and your dependants get in free on September 13th.
Of course the rides are gonna cost you a little extra and what’s a fair without shrieking, barf-dodging carnival rides? This year bring us the same creaking wooden behemoth of a rollercoaster that is the Puyallup Fair. I drive by this thing in the dead of winter as it sits under a blanket of snow, in the showers of April as the old wood soaks up the rain, and in the baking heat of summer. Needless to say, I don’t ride that bad boy, but best of luck to those who do. Not to mention my high school memories of the fair still haunt me. The "Kamikaze" and the "Dual Loop" after a bottle of Boones Farm was not a good move. I’m more of a spinning teacups kind of girl now.
As you walk through the fair, past the rides and the games, the aroma of barbeque fills the air. Laughing children run past you; faces covered with sticky sweet cotton candy. There’s waffle cones, candy apples and mounds of salty French fries. Getting hungry? The options are endless at the Fair. I know a certain health nut who breaks down annually for Krusty Pups and elephant ears. Another friend waits in line for scones then drives them to her mother in Shelton. And last year my neighbors went just to check out the deep fried Snickers bars. Crazy. As for me, I allow myself one hamburger a year. And that happens, of course, at the fair. It’s not the best burger, not the fluffiest bun, not even the crispiest pickles, but it’s a fair burger and it’s delicious. Everything just tastes better there.
If it’s music you’re after, this year the lineup includes American idol fave, Kelly Clarkston and teen mega star, Hillary Duff. Both shows are over $50 – even in the grandstand – and I remember when that was free. Yikes! Country acts Brad Paisley, Terri Clark and Leanne Womack will be there. ZZ Top and Hoobastank will be representing for the rock fans and R&B diva Patti LaBelle will be making an appearance as well.
I find it hard to get truly excited about any of the above, so if you’re anything like me, in lieu of a pricey concert, why not check out some of the free entertainment the fair has to offer? Local "Idol" contest winners will be competing for a $1,000.00 grand prize, a recording session at Live Sound Studio and a chance to sing the national anthem at a Rainier’s game. Now that’s entertainment. Think those "Idol" kids got nothing on you? There’s also a karaoke contest the 19th-25th with a grand prize of $2,000.00! If that’s not enough action, the US Marines and the US Army will also be there, with give-aways, physical challenge activities, and, of course, the opportunity to join up.
Me, I go to the fair for one thing – animals. I hate scones, I’m not riding on anything operated by toothless tweeker Joe and the music lineup really isn’t my style. So I go primarily for the cute, cuddly, fuzzy, furry, loveable critters. The petting farm isn’t just for the kids! When’s the last time you saw a baby goat up close and personal? Awwww. And like any true country fair, there’s the wholesome fun of 4-H competitions. Growing up in cities, I always envied those country kids, who were lucky enough to raise chickens, bunnies and horses. Now I feel for them; these kids work harder than I ever have. From September 21st -25th you can also visit exotic animals from all corners of the world including yaks, wallabies, alpacas and - I love saying this - Nigerian dwarf goats. Cool!
This is the Puyallup Fair, and whether you’re saying goodbye to summer, or hello to the new school year, it’s a south sound tradition, it’s a little bit country and little bit rock n’ roll. With rides, ponies, cotton candy and crafts, the Fair will turn you into a kid again, and who wants to miss that?

South Tacoma Way - August 18, 2005

"People laugh when they hear you're from my town They say it's a sour and used up old place ….You know that you're poor, from Tacoma There was nothing to put me in love with the good life I'm in league with the gangs, and the guns, and the crime There was no hollow promise that life would reward you There was nowhere to hide in Tacoma." – Thrice All American, Neko Case

The brilliant and soulful Neko Case wrote about the Tacoma that was, and I’m sure she’d be pleased to see the Tacoma that finally made bail, kicked the habit and turned it’s life around. Everyone’s talking about downtown; look at the condos, the restaurants, and a light rail for Gods Sake! The North End is no longer an affordable working class neighborhood, but a haven of sought-after million dollar homes. Tacoma is coming into her own.
But no one speaks of South Tacoma, do they? South Tacoma ain’t what it used to be folks. It’s come a long way. Home prices have doubled in the last few years, schools are being resurrected, Starbucks are lining up and dare I say it, we’re developing actual night life too. I’m talking about South Tacoma Way. Once the main drag, our very own piece of Highway 99 taking travelers from Canada to California…aw, the good ol’ days.
It all started on a hot Sunday evening, sitting around, baking in our home, no air conditioning, no beer…its Sunday. I flipped through the Volcano to see what could get us out of the house on a Sunday night. Jazz at Dawson’s Tavern. Hmmmm, close to home, and I’ve heard it’s cleaned up, so we decided to check it out. Let me preface this by saying, I’m aware of South Tacoma Way’s reputation for biker bars and fights (I mean full fledged weapon wielding fights); not the kind of place I would dare try to fit in. But it was early and we were up for anything. Dawson’s was fairly crowded for 6pm on a Sunday night. The crowd was an eclectic mix, and the drinks were decent. Go around the bar and there’s a nice lounge with big comfy chairs. Pete Lira and the What’s Happening band were playing big city style jazz, complete with world class singers. I’ve been back every Sunday since.
Fueled by a couple of vodka tonics, we decided to go ahead and poke our heads in the newly refurbished bar next door, The Catbox. I was nervous, but it was cool. Totally remodeled, very clean, friendly staff and hella strong drinks. They have the funky monkey vibe going complete with bras on the ceiling and poles for the ladies to dance on. Thanks guys.
Between South 35th and South 56th street there over ten bars. Not all of them clean, not all of them friendly, hell, not all of them legit. I had one bartender offer to buy my drink if I would just leave – she didn’t like me taking notes. Hmmmm.
Working your way down 56th, make sure to drop in at the Golden West. Angel will serve you up a fine drink and a cheery attitude. If you’re in the mood to dish some political dirt, owner Karl is a riveting conversationalist. I was lucky enough to stop in on the weekend and found both the Golden West and Pub 54 hosting Billyfest, a fund raiser for local guitarist Bill Rowley. Live music abounded, and I was like a kid at Christmas when I found out that not only were the Last Chance Romeos playing (I love them), but Voodoo Ranch! These guys haven’t been in the scene for years now. I was delighted. And all on little old South Tacoma Way.
There’s something for everyone on this unassuming street, if it’s dancing you’re after, we’ve got that too! Get in the car and drive past my very favorite dive, the Duck, and head down to Area 151. This place has really cleaned up. The scene is set in deep tones, waterfalls and a huge dance floor. Make sure to throw a penny into the fountain, which is home to the amazing 800 lb. Chinese water ball (this thing is so cool). The bartenders are hot, the vibe is cool and Salsa Saturdays are packed.
For something completely unique, keep heading north to Bob’s Java Jive. The Java Jive is a magical pot filled with knick knacks, characters, ghosts and legends. The jungle room offers up Karaoke most nights and the crowd makes for most excellent people watching. Sometimes a dose of the Java Jive just hits the spot.
When you finally tire of $8 well drinks, and battling for parking spots downtown, turn the car south and give yourself a break from the pretension. Keep it real in South Tacoma where you’ll find easy parking, down to earth folks and plenty of old school charm.

Live Music in Lakewood - June 2, 2005

I’ve recently moved to the South end of Tacoma and find getting downtown not quite the quick little trip it once was. Being a "get to know your neighbors" kind of girl, I headed out in search of interesting places to catch live bands in Lakewood.
I started by calling every bar, tavern and club in the phonebook and jotting down a list of places to go. "What fun!" I thought, "I’ll have months of excitement". I came up with five. That’s right only five places in all of Lakewood and Steilacoom to see live music. Anyone want to front me the capital to open up "Deena’s Tiki Lounge"? Lakewood needs us!
We started out at O’Gallaghers on a Friday night. There is a cover charge of $5 which seemed fair. The band on the roster for the evening was Colliding Days. These guys played straight up kickass rock; AC/DC, Queens of the Stoneage, Jet. They gave 100% although the audience was pretty sparse. Not bad for $5! The stage is set in front of a huge dance floor, and plenty of tables, this place is enormous. The sound guy was top notch, loud but not too loud, and if you want a break from the band there are pool tables, big screens, and a decent menu as well. There’s a full menu until 10pm, after that you can get bar food til’ they close. The folks at O’Gallaghers are a great bunch. The staff couldn’t be friendlier and the drinks are cheap and strong. Bonus - there’s a 10% discount for military.
Next stop was the Great American Casino (formerly the Grand Central) for a completely different genre. Can you say shark pit? This is definitely a place for single folks. The band on deck was Notorious 253 and they had the dance floor packed. They were energetic and fun, playing old school Michael Jackson, pop, and R&B. The sound system pumps, the lighting is dim and the ambiance is actually very nice. It reminded me of the Paris casino in Vegas with the fake trees, brick, and cabaret style tables. The single men here are on the prowl and the ladies are on the dance floor. If you’re over 30 and looking to hook up, you might want to check it out. The staff is on the ball, and there’s live music every weekend with no cover charge.
Saturday night we headed back out on the road. It was a gorgeous night so we opted for the Steilacoom Pub & Deli’s open mic (hey, that’s live music right)? The pub has an open mic every Saturday night after 9pm. Steilacoom was looking very Norman Rockwell as we approached the darling little Pub. I’ve never encountered anyone with attitude here; it’s always a nice crowd and a fair mix of young and old. As with any open mic, you have to sit through a few stinkers but some of the acoustic acts were surprisingly good! Once again, there is no cover.
I loved the pub, but being that they don’t serve the hard stuff, we hit the road again, determined to find out all that Lakewood has to offer. Next stop: Chips Casino. I’d read in this swell paper that a band called Exotica was playing. Exotica huh? Sounds interesting. First of all, the place was packed, as in parking lot is full, no free barstools packed. Exotica, it turns out, is a two man act, one on the drums, one on the keyboard, performing a mix of 70’s and 80’s music. As I heard them start in on Dreamweaver I knew I had to stay. This place is a trip. The band does take requests (I love that!) and while there is no dance floor, not a soul in the bar wasn’t bobbing their head. The juxtaposition of gangsters, elderly women, and this funky little band made for quite an experience. I felt like I’d traveled to a new planet.
The bartender at Chips was without a doubt the friendliest bartender in the South end. His name is Tennille, and no matter how busy he gets, he never forgets a drink or shows the least bit of impatience. Ah, how refreshing.
As my next weekend approached I had one place left on my list. We undertook the long lingering drive to out to Oakbrook to see Chicken Joe at Pounders Pub & Grub. For you inner city Tacomans, beware…. this is a long drive on non arterial roads. Definitely choose a designated driver. We finally arrived to a packed house, harried bartenders and couples galore. No cover charge (ever) and every table was spoken for. We ended up sitting at the bar and watching the band from afar. The house was full of baseball caps and white tennis shoes, and at 32 I was one of the youngest people there. While the Great American Casino is a meat market this place is the polar opposite. If you’re looking for a night out with the spouse and don’t want to change out of your sweats, check it out. Otherwise, I’d have to say try something different and check out your local Casinos!