CH-CH-CH-CHANGES >>>
Since X Group Restaurants took control of the historic Engine House No. 9 in June 2011; we've seen many subtle changes - in ambiance and its stable of nibbles and libations. The dessert menu received one of the initial changes. E-9 went from serving premade frozen sweet treats to housemade pastries, courtesy of its sister restaurant, Masa. Its carrot cake must - delightfully well balanced, moist, and not too sweet while the icing was fluffy and light. It was like biting into a cloud.
The most recent change to E-9's menu, albeit temporary, is the addition of Greek cuisine. Greek entree specials will be served during January in honor of the ownerships' Greek heritage.
Sitting in front of E-9 bartender Ramona Sizemore - fully involved with my carrot cake - I asked her what Greek entrée rocks. She gives nod to the My Big Fat Greek Pizza ($15.50). Topped with a pesto sauce, mozzarella and feta cheeses, and adorned with kalamata olives, halved cherry tomatoes, gyro meat and artichoke hearts, I do believe I spied Sizemore drooling a bit as she described it. Having dined alone this visit, I didn't opt for the pizza; it's a healthy size and can feed two or three people easily.
Also featured this month is the St. Nicks Gyro ($8.75) - a pita stuffed with lettuce, tomatoes, shaved onion and gyro meat drizzled in a tzatziki sauce and served up with your choice of salad, fries or tater tots. Again, tempting, but not what I had my eye on.
E-9's Pano's Pasta ($14) - that is what I'm talking about. A lovely mix of linguine perfectly coated in olive oil and a citrus sauce then tossed with chicken, artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes and feta cheese. This dish is earthy, and surprisingly light and refreshing as compared to other pasta dishes.
Since I'm on a "new changes" roll - as of Friday, E-9 now pours bourbon and whiskey flights. You may choose between rye, bourbon, moonshine, Northwest whiskey and a premium flight - each highlighting thee different types of each spirit in tasty, one-ounce pours. E-9's whiskey selection has grown to an impressive array of options. Adding a bourbon and whiskey flights allows drinkers to sample the selection with little commitment.
If it's been a year or more since your last visit to Engine House No. 9, I'd recommend you pull in.
ENGINE HOUSE NO. 9, 11 A.M.-1 A.M. SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY, 11 A.M.-2 A.M. THURSDAY-SATURDAY, 611 N. PINE ST., TACOMA, 253.272.3435
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