Walkie Talkie Blog
The void on the North Pac Ave scene where Paddy Coynes once occupied one of Tacoma's most historic back bars has been filled by The Forum as of last Tuesday. I've heard good feedback in regard to the Forum's sister store in Puyallup and have been highly anticipating this location
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Downtown Sumner's retail and antique stores align in a row, providing a lovely stroll. Snuggled in the row, Cafe Bellis boasts a charming small town vibe that fits. It's an intimate interior - with the server station on full display in the tiny dining area, which is nice because the
Walkie Talkie Blog
Though The Swiss has earned the reputation as a live music venue, the entertainment isn't the sole reason to visit. The menu, paired with ample libations, is prime pickings for lunch and dinner daily, while the ambiance is hip and casual with worn wooden tables and art adorned walls that
Walkie Talkie Blog
Self-serve yogurt shops seem to be the trend now, and there is no shortage of them in the South Sound. One of the last to join the Fro Yo So So is Granola's Frozen Yogurt and More in downtown Tacoma. The shop does fro yo with a twist - a
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There's a little something for coffee geeks to get excited about in Tacoma. The Slayer! Paesan Kitchen and Bar has gained a following with its wood-fired pizzas and compelling cocktail concoctions, yet its espresso hasn't gained much buzz. Manager - and as co-owner Philip Panagos puts it "Coffee Queen" - Natasha Weiss
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Since the '80s Five Guys Burgers and Fries has been burger flippin' its way to our hearts and, in the last few years, it has spread like wild fire opening several locations in the South Sound. If you've haven eaten at Five Guys, this isn't shocking news. One greasy sackful
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Shopping at malls is hard work. When I do brave the mall crowds, I need to keep me energy levels in check. The food court is a-OK and has a selection of culinary finds from Asian cuisine to McD's, but meals served in the court can't be paired with a
Walkie Talkie Blog
Paesan Kitchen and Bar is a great spot to start and end the day. The early risers can snag espresso on the go to fuel the day while the night owls may sip microbrews and nifty cocktails when the lights dim. And while best known for serving up Neapolitan-style pizza
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Iron Rabbit in West Olympia is like your favorite present wrapped in a brown paper bag: The exterior is plain to say the least; the interior is cozy with a cool open kitchen that could almost pass for a diner - if it weren't so nicely appointed. It's casual comfort
Walkie Talkie Blog
The north end of Pacific Avenue has become a hub of food, drink and play with the likes of the Matador, Tacoma Cabana, Meconi's, The Office and Dorky's all within a traffic cone's throw. When Paddy Coyne's Irish Pub, a neighbor to the aforementioned joints, closed its doors earlier this
Walkie Talkie Blog
Sixth Avenue in Tacoma has established itself as a dining destination, lined with nationally recognized restaurants and award-winning bars. As the notable restaurants and bars on the street continue to excel, others must rise to the occasion ... and that's exactly what North China Garden intents to do. North China Garden
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Over the Moon Cafe is one of those establishments that one refers to as a "hidden gem." Located in Opera Alley, this charming Tacoma dining establishment is easily bypassed but worth a visit. Inside you'll find black table linens, cozy colorful chairs and lighting that set the mood perfect for date
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When caffeine alone cannot fuel the day's endeavors, substance is key. The Tacoma area doesn't have a shortage of grubbin' breakfast establishments, especially come time for the weekend. Whether nursing remnants of the evil little nymphs of a hangover or simply looking to start my day, a favorite joint of
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What makes the Magical Sandwich Makers, or MSM, so friggin' fabulous? It could be its unassuming exterior and its eternal jumbled readerboard that screams hole in the wall, podunk convenience store. We do, after all, affectionately refer to ourselves as the Gritty City and have a love affair with blue-collar
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Located among Tacoma's Antique Row's charming shops you'll discover Millesime Designs. Though quaint in size, owner Summer Hess Briggs brings the style and whimsy in her one of a kind up-cycled treasures. Every eight weeks Briggs revamps the storefront space with a new color combo and theme. Pops of yellows starkly
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Corina Bakery is a delectable little bakery with a classy café like setting serving up Tacoma favorites such as Valhalla Coffee and Mad Hat Tea. Though both of those are reason enough to visit, their selection of housemade baked goods is absolutely exquisite. Corina specializes in specialty cakes, handcrafted pies
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Food Network celebrity Guy Fieri drove his fiery red Camaro up to Puyallup digs Crockett's Public House last fall to film Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives - which aired in March - and raved about Mom's Sloppy Joe. Naturally, I had to check it out. Pulling around the corner to find parking
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"Good things come to those who wait," or so they say and in this case it holds a kernel of wisdom. In February, the Weekly Volcano heard the owners of Tacoma's The Social Bar & Grill - Jason Bailey, Philip Panagos and Rodel Borromeo -would be venturing into the world of
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When considering wine bar destination, Cafe Divino is one that should always be on the list as it was one of the first wine bars to open in the South Sound. Located in Old Town Tacoma, a mere stroll from a spectacular waterfront journey, Cafe Divino boasts a lovely and
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Entering downtown Olympia eatery Acqua Via you may first notice the minimalist, simple decor. Lightly used wooden tables and bare bulbs are complimented by colorful contemporary art pieces along the walls. It's a lovely spot for people watching while sipping on a craft cocktail - the Vigilante (grapefruit liqueur, jalapeno