CALZONES ON SOUTH TACOMA WAY >>>

Proving that they're more than just a pizza joint, Stonegate Pizza and Rum Bar has a diverse new menu.

The major additions to the menu are the 16 types of calzones now available. Flavors ranging from Hawaiian ($10) and blackened chicken ($10) to smoked salmon ($15) and peanut butter and bacon ($10) leave diners with endless choices. Yes, you read that right: peanut butter and bacon. You can't tell me you're not at least curious what that tastes like. I know I am.

New appetizers include the house-made jalepeño poppers ($6) and chicken strips ($6), the latter of which I had a chance to try. Strips of chicken breast were breaded with Panko bread crumbs and fried to crunchy perfection.

There are also more burgers and sandwiches, such as the crab burger ($12) and chicken Caesar sandwich ($9). I ordered the new "roasted bacon blues" burger ($7 for four ounces, $9 for eight ounces), a chicken breast with bacon and blue cheese, and was delighted by the bold flavors. The new "rockin' mai tai" packed quite a punch. Let's just say if I drank two of these, I'd be done for.

The dessert menu now has three dessert pizzas, with flavors like Dutch apple ($8) and cinnamon toast ($6).

On my visit, I was struck by the great prices and helpful service. Because Stonegate is half bar, half family-friendly restaurant, feel free to bring the kids. Or leave the little ones at home and check out one of their many nights with live music.

[Stonegate Pizza and Rum Bar, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, 5421 S. Tacoma Way, Tacoma, 253.473.2255]

LINK: Tacoma Restaurant Week is on!