EARLY WEEK AWESOMENESS >>>

Trying an unacquainted wine can be a costly journey - especially difficult for those who wrestle with the big C word. Yes, commitment. You like what you like and ordering a glass of vino that you're unfamiliar with when dining out simply is not an option.

Fear no longer, my commitmentphobes. If you're feeling like indulging in the finer things in life, and what to try something a little different than the norm, Maxwell's Speakeasy and Lounge has the weekly special for you.

Every Tuesday, Maxwell's serves two chef's choice appetizers and two house wines or draft beers for $15. Chef Hudson Slater tells me, "It's nothing over the top but keeps things fun and fresh."

Chef Slater and server extraordinaire and wine pro Kent Bolden sample wines weeks in advance, mull them over, discuss possible pairings, sample more, then create a new Tuesday experience.

"We sip something tasty and we play with it," says chef Slater.

Last night, traditional fishcakes were served with roasted goat cheese and squash stacks paired with a Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc.

Maxwell's Speakeasy also launched a monthly whiskey/bourbon flight of the month. In honor of St. Patrick's Day, Maxwell's is featuring an Irish whiskey flight - 2.5 ounces of brown liquor brought to you by the Emerald Isle. The flight highlights Tullamore Dew 12 year, The Knot and The Irishman for $15.

Maxwell's will also unleash a new cocktail and dinner menu by April Fool's Day.

MAXWELL'S SPEAKEASY AND LOUNGE, 4-10 P.M. MONDAY-THURSDAY, 4 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT FRIDAY, 5 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT SATURDAY, 454 ST. HELEN'S AVE., TACOMA, 253.683.4115