Given the breakneck pace of most people's lives, sometimes neighborhood dining spots really do the trick - predictable, affordable and filling. I was happy to hear business partners Pat Nagle and Carole Holder were bringing their bicycles, pizza, burgers and beer concept to the other side of the Narrows, opening The Hub at Gig Harbor Monday, Sept. 16. The two took over the restaurant space at the Tacoma Narrows Airport. I found myself looking around and trying to remember the room before it looked so "Hub"-ish - reds, golds and bicycle parts. The change is dramatic ... and welcoming, full of colors and bicycle kitsch, such as mounted handlebars and saddles to resemble trophy animal heads. When full, as Friday's investors' party and Saturday's test run with friends, the atmosphere is lively and roaring, but it manages to be calm and serene too, with patio seating facing the runway and a large, outdoor beer garden off the left side.

Your dish favorites from the St. Helens Hub Restaurant grace the menu, loaded with pizza and burgers, a few pasta dishes and, of course, the Harmon brews. Fans of the weekend breakfasts at Hub and Harmon Brewery in Tacoma will now have to choose which side of the Narrows Bridge to start their Saturday and Sunday.

Many Gig Harbor familiar faces were in the house both nights, including chefs Lucas Ortiz and Jeremy Barber, and sous chef Aimee Cox, who command the kitchen.

I wouldn't be surprised if Gig Harbor embraces the restaurant. It screams, "Let's meet at The Hub," whether to enjoy drinks in the outdoor beer garden - lit by Tivoli lights, firewood and sunsets; enjoy burgers on the back patio and watch who exits planes; or watch the game, which is easy to do from all angles.

THE HUB AT GIG HARBOR, opens Monday, Sept. 16 for lunch, dinner and weekend breakfasts, 1208 26thAve. NW, Gig Harbor, 253.224.2624