PLACES WE LOVE >>>
Why We Go: We enjoy the sense of Tacoma's history in spirit, as the "E-9" - a converted 1907 fire station - has been around for more than 35 years, with proof in the old photographs that deck the walls. When the sun is out we hang in the side patio, drink beer, and eavesdrop on party stories from the University of Puget Sound students.
What We Eat: Eighty percent of the time we dine on E-9's famous, delicious soft taco. The huge sucker has been around since E9 opened its doors 35 years ago. With veggie, chicken or beef options - and lettuce, tomatoes, onions, salsa, guacamole, cheddar and jack cheeses stuffed inside - the taco is baked until the flour tortilla is slightly crispy, then topped with sour cream on one end. Even better is the large pile of delicious French fries riding shotgun. They're long, medium-sized and crispy - one of the best in the city.
What We'd Change: Parking is an issue, as with all the Sixth Avenue restaurants in the area. We also know E9 can't expand the bar area, but it does get crowded. Fewer UPS frat boys would also help, but then the college girls would stay home. So never mind.
[Engine House No. 9, 11:30 a.m. to midnight Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to Midnight Sunday, 611 N. Pine St., Tacoma, 253.272.3435]