A SPLENDID WAY TO START THE DAY >>>

Thad Lyman and Katie Doherty, the husband-wife team behind Brix 25 in Gig Harbor, have launched a new waterfront breakfast destination. The duo opened Netshed No. 9 just off Harborview Drive with a splendid view of quiet waters and boats. As you enter you're welcomed with a warm ambiance complete with natural light. The warm, spring vibe is wonderful. I can't wait for warmer weather to hit Netshed's outdoor seating.

To begin my culinary journey I sipped on the popular housemade hot chocolate ($4). "A cup full of liquid, chocolate-y goodness," pretty much sums it up. It's smooth and rich and reminds me of my grandmamma. If you need to start your day with a caffeinated beverage you can amp it up with a shot of espresso for an extra dollar. It's a must try.

The menu features traditional breakfast favorites with a touch of flair, such as a ricotta and sourdough pancakes served with a vanilla bourbon maple syrup, and a bacon mac and cheese pie - an intriguing combo. It sounded too rich paired with my cup of sweet blissful death by chocolate.

After much consideration I settled on the least of the traditional dishes - locally speaking - the chilaquiles. This Mexican dish is done eloquently at Netshed No. 9 with a healthy portion highlighting crispy house made tortilla chips, cheeses, black beans and eggs with chorizo and salsa verde balanced in each bite. The spice level was appropriate for morning consumption, approachable and not hot for the sake of being hot. The key here is flavor.

Service is extraordinarily friendly and matches the warmth of the ambiance and my meal. My next visit will absolutely have to include the chicken and waffle, which is topped with spicy syrup.

Netshed No. 9 offers a breakfast for those who seek a bit of adventure (but not too much) in their morning and afternoon dining experiences.

NETSHED NO. 9, 8 A.M. TO 4 P.M. THURSDAY-MONDAY, 3313 HARBORVIEW DR., GIG HARBOR, 253.858.7175