I WENT TO THE OFFICE THIS WEEKEND >>>

Piercing blue sky, crisp air, lower temperatures and leaves blowing about signifies a perfect fall harvest day in the Pacific Northwest. Gloves and scarves are already making their presence known. Neither comedian Kris "Save Our Sonics" Brannon nor anyone else minded standing outside downtown Tacoma Saturday as The Office Bar & Grill celebrated their official grand opening with a visit from Mayor Marilyn Strickland. In true gracious form, Mayor Strickland remarked to proud, smiling business owners Travis Scheff and Matt Henderson, "This is the most organized ribbon-cutting I've ever been to."  Just before noon, the co-owners flanked the mayor as she used cartoonishly pink large scissors to cut a cheery red ribbon and followed with a short speech "... I am always glad to see another business open in downtown Tacoma."

Back inside The Office, patrons took advantage of the $3 special "grand opening" menu items. Patron Justin Bailey grubbed on an order of Southwestern rolls with guacamole while I chatted with the mayor and sipped a virgin Bloody Mary. Since opening Aug 5, The Office's friendly co-owners have taken patrons' feedback and made changes adding more tap handles, at least four being local and regional selections including popular Men's Room Original Red, 50 percent off happy hour, and a trivia night every Thursday at 8 p.m. They'll add more dinner entrees soon.

"The Office burger with cole slaw and sautéed onions is very popular" Scheff shared. "Angus steak frites are a big hit, people just don't expect demi glace - it's not a bar food item."

He adds that the community has begun to make the casual sports and business crowd bar a regular hangout. "Comeback Sports has their post-event gathering here Wednesdays and Tacoma Runners Club met and ended here last week."

The Office Bar & Grill

11 a.m. to midnight Sundays-Thursdays
11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays-Saturdays
813 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma
253.572.3222