Sixth Avenue in Tacoma has established itself as a dining destination, lined with nationally recognized restaurants and award-winning bars. As the notable restaurants and bars on the street continue to excel, others must rise to the occasion ... and that's exactly what North China Garden intents to do.

North China Garden manager BriAnn Hein tells me of changes the establishment will be undertaking in the following months, including menu updates as well as an interior overhaul.

"We are delighted to introduce an MSG free menu that you can choose between five MSG free entrees served from 4 to 9 p.m. including a combo meal that we are really excited about. All appetizers and soup will be MSG free. And we now serve brown rice as a substitute for steamed rice."

Other menu updates will include a selection of desserts featuring compelling flavors thanks to their friendly neighbor Dirty Oscar's and some changes in the price structure.

The interior updates include a wine bar and local art. Hein also tells me the new decor will "... have an East meets West feel. Bringing the garden in our name to life in the restaurant. Dark chocolate chairs and booths paired with vibrant red table clothes will be added soon. ... "We're also enclosing in the dining room to give it more appeal as some people have felt they are sitting in a cafeteria."

Renovations are expected to be complete by mid-December.

Fun fact: North China Garden is one of the sole Chinese fare establishments that offers delivery within a 3-5 mile radius with a minimum $20-$30 order.

NORTH CHINA GARDEN, 11:309 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday, noon to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Sunday, 2303 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, 253.572.5106