Restaurants in Tacoma
Best Restaurants
“Great tapas. Loved the anchovies, hard to find around here. Hoped to see a Spanish Vermouth somewhere. Paella was out of stock, looking forward to having that next time. Glad you’re here!!! Loved the food, atmosphere and prices. Michelle was great and had good recommendations.”
“We went in without a reservation and although they were busy, we were greeted and welcomed. Staff sat us and served us exceptional customer service. we were checked on, informed of specials and tables cleared after every serving in a timely fashion. There is a large parking space just beside the property. Everything from the appetizer and starters to the dessert was delicious. We enjoyed the warm, cozy atmosphere both inside and outside of the restaurant. we left this establishment feeling full but not heavy. I understand why it would be super busy on such a rainy day. Definitely would return through a storm.”
“Oh.My.God.What an amazing surprise this place was. I googled “seafood restaurants” from my hotel in Tacoma and it brought me to a beautiful little place on the water called Dukes seafood Tacoma.They started off with some of the best sourdough bread I’ve ever had. Follow that up with “award winning” clam chowder and I was already starting to get full. Then, the waitress brought out my crab stuffed Alaskan halibut fillet. It was beautiful and delicious.Finally, entirely full, my server asked me if I had any room for dessert. When she told me what they had, I absolutely was unable to resist the Marion berry pie à la mode.What I did not know was that it is not a “piece” of pie. It’s about half of a pie topped with two giant scoops of ice cream.It was also absolutely decadent.My only regret was that I could not get through all of it due to being stuffed to the gills from all the other fantastic food.If you were in the Tacoma area, or, as I came to learn after speaking with the staff there, anyone of other seven locations in the Seattle area, be sure to check them out.Vegetarian options: They have vegetables and salad.Dietary restrictions: They can make many of their dishes to accommodate any dietary needsParking: There is a huge parking lot that was absolutely packed, so I did not have high hopes for having a table. Don’t let it fool you. The place is a lot bigger than it looks.Kid-friendliness: Many of the couples in the restaurant this evening, had children with them.Wheelchair accessibility: There is a ramp that bypasses the stairs up to the front door.”
“Vegetarian options: The tapioca pudding was vegan and DELICIOUS!Kid-friendliness: Tut took both of my grandsons, and they LOVED it! We shared about 4 small plates 1st, and WOW! Then all 5 of us shared our main courses, and they melted with every bite... literally!”
“I cannot say enough or what would even amount to the equivalency of what Tibbitts deserves. First the setting. It can and will be whatever you need it to be. Intimate, family, fun. There is so much about the owner and others who have visited on the walls. Old kitchen accessories, pictures and a couple of posters that show their dedication to a certain series Im sure we all binge watched. A very creative space that gives you an insight on the roots attached to Tibbitts, you can smile and nod at the picture of Shawns mom hanging high so she can see her sons dream in action. You can read about Shawns amazing story online on how his dream came true. What an inspiration of love and dedication. I encourage you all to go read it. So when you see the way this man greets his guests you will know a bit of his heart. He definitely enjoys what he does. Art from a local school is beautiful and an added sweet touch. It's like getting an inside peek into someone's life and before you meet them you just admire the living example that they are, living their best life.Second the Crew. With the few staff members they have, they pull it off. Very professional but personable, everyone was a blessing to encounter. My hat goes off to the crew. It makes for a nice at home feel with the limited seating. I see why reservations are required and why Tibbitts is only open on the weekends. Which brings us to the food. The menu is small but it packs a punch with variety and flavor. The stainless steel mugs keep your coffee hot the ENTIRE time. Good portions. Phenomenal flavor. Again, the kitchen crew is legit!!! Everything perfect to the point of heavenly blissfulness. I can say with all that is magical here you will want to come back. P.S. Don't forget to water the plants Shawn. ;)~Sarah from t-townParking: Parking was not an issue. I drive a large truck and I was able to park in the back of the lot no problem. There were plenty of open parking spaces.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“This was the best meal my husband and i have ever had in our life! Every part of the meal was perfect. We absolutely loved the vibe and atmosphere, i loved the upbeat music. Isaak, our server, gave phenomenal service, explained the menu exceptionally and gave awesome recommendations.”
“Love this spot. Great food and great menu. Service was outstanding. A little small, but you won't feel like it's crowded. The service and owner are top notch. Now if they would just put some grilled octopus on the menu...?”
“Cactus was an amazing surprise! I come from Texas where the TexMex is abundant and I didn’t expect to find some familiar flavors up here in Washington! The spicy mango michelada was refreshing and the birria tacos and fajitas were great! Whenever I come back to visit, I’ll be sure to stop by Cactus!”
Restaurants with Delivery
“Great tapas. Loved the anchovies, hard to find around here. Hoped to see a Spanish Vermouth somewhere. Paella was out of stock, looking forward to having that next time. Glad you’re here!!! Loved the food, atmosphere and prices. Michelle was great and had good recommendations.”
“Was my first time going, so I didn't tip, which I greatly regret. Grabbed the cinnamon toast crunch waffle and hot wings instead of original. Waffle was great, fluffy and buttery. As for the chicken, you wanna talk tender and juicy, this was it. I could eat it with the plastic utensils they hand you effortlessly. I love spicy foods so the chicken could've been a lil hotter. Other than that and it's not "officially" open (not ready for dine in yet) so you can only order online. The service is prompt and ready when the message says it is for pickup. Last but most certainly not least, the food is halal, so please bring your Muslim friends to try it too. I assure you no one will regret it.”
“Vegetarian options: The tapioca pudding was vegan and DELICIOUS!Kid-friendliness: Tut took both of my grandsons, and they LOVED it! We shared about 4 small plates 1st, and WOW! Then all 5 of us shared our main courses, and they melted with every bite... literally!”
“We went in without a reservation and although they were busy, we were greeted and welcomed. Staff sat us and served us exceptional customer service. we were checked on, informed of specials and tables cleared after every serving in a timely fashion. There is a large parking space just beside the property. Everything from the appetizer and starters to the dessert was delicious. We enjoyed the warm, cozy atmosphere both inside and outside of the restaurant. we left this establishment feeling full but not heavy. I understand why it would be super busy on such a rainy day. Definitely would return through a storm.”
“Kind Baristas and amazing coffee! I always get excited when a new season rings in because they have the best seasonal flavors! Also don’t sleep on the Oat Bars they are so good!”
“Oh.My.God.What an amazing surprise this place was. I googled “seafood restaurants” from my hotel in Tacoma and it brought me to a beautiful little place on the water called Dukes seafood Tacoma.They started off with some of the best sourdough bread I’ve ever had. Follow that up with “award winning” clam chowder and I was already starting to get full. Then, the waitress brought out my crab stuffed Alaskan halibut fillet. It was beautiful and delicious.Finally, entirely full, my server asked me if I had any room for dessert. When she told me what they had, I absolutely was unable to resist the Marion berry pie à la mode.What I did not know was that it is not a “piece” of pie. It’s about half of a pie topped with two giant scoops of ice cream.It was also absolutely decadent.My only regret was that I could not get through all of it due to being stuffed to the gills from all the other fantastic food.If you were in the Tacoma area, or, as I came to learn after speaking with the staff there, anyone of other seven locations in the Seattle area, be sure to check them out.Vegetarian options: They have vegetables and salad.Dietary restrictions: They can make many of their dishes to accommodate any dietary needsParking: There is a huge parking lot that was absolutely packed, so I did not have high hopes for having a table. Don’t let it fool you. The place is a lot bigger than it looks.Kid-friendliness: Many of the couples in the restaurant this evening, had children with them.Wheelchair accessibility: There is a ramp that bypasses the stairs up to the front door.”
“Very fast service once seated, popular place during lunch, reasonable prices for serving size of pho, highly recommended. Definitely a repeat, servers were very polite and attentive. Had 7a medium, very delicious reminded me of Vietnam.”
“I love Balcon! It’s my favorite quick bite spot in the neighborhood. I especially love the bean and cheese pupusa - I usually get two with extra slaw. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu tho - so happy this little local business opened up!”
“As a big soup girly, Infinite Soups is my heaven. We took 5 soups home to try a variety but these were my favorites: (1) Chicken Gorgonzola Tortellini (2) Pot Roast (3) 3 Cheese Potato.The pricing seems an absolute steal for the quality and everything was piping hot.I also so appreciated how friendly the staff was and the ability to sample before choosing!10/10 would recommend and will be back very soon!!!”
“Love this spot. Great food and great menu. Service was outstanding. A little small, but you won't feel like it's crowded. The service and owner are top notch. Now if they would just put some grilled octopus on the menu...?”
“I cannot say enough or what would even amount to the equivalency of what Tibbitts deserves. First the setting. It can and will be whatever you need it to be. Intimate, family, fun. There is so much about the owner and others who have visited on the walls. Old kitchen accessories, pictures and a couple of posters that show their dedication to a certain series Im sure we all binge watched. A very creative space that gives you an insight on the roots attached to Tibbitts, you can smile and nod at the picture of Shawns mom hanging high so she can see her sons dream in action. You can read about Shawns amazing story online on how his dream came true. What an inspiration of love and dedication. I encourage you all to go read it. So when you see the way this man greets his guests you will know a bit of his heart. He definitely enjoys what he does. Art from a local school is beautiful and an added sweet touch. It's like getting an inside peek into someone's life and before you meet them you just admire the living example that they are, living their best life.Second the Crew. With the few staff members they have, they pull it off. Very professional but personable, everyone was a blessing to encounter. My hat goes off to the crew. It makes for a nice at home feel with the limited seating. I see why reservations are required and why Tibbitts is only open on the weekends. Which brings us to the food. The menu is small but it packs a punch with variety and flavor. The stainless steel mugs keep your coffee hot the ENTIRE time. Good portions. Phenomenal flavor. Again, the kitchen crew is legit!!! Everything perfect to the point of heavenly blissfulness. I can say with all that is magical here you will want to come back. P.S. Don't forget to water the plants Shawn. ;)~Sarah from t-townParking: Parking was not an issue. I drive a large truck and I was able to park in the back of the lot no problem. There were plenty of open parking spaces.”
“Shockingly good. I was legitimately surprised by the quality, especially considering the reasonable prices. The coffee was actually good too! Easiest five star ever.Note that they do run out of biscuits at some point everyday. If they do, I'd suggest grabbing cheesecake at the least as it was also fantastic!Will absolutely go again!”
“Very delicious! I had the butter chicken momo, and jhol chicken momo. Both were so good, and different, I couldn't decide which ones I liked more! I bought both so I could have leftovers for lunch today, and I let the ones I got with the jhol sit in the soup overnight, and man they were incredible! I love this food! I didn't take a picture because there are already pictures of them online.”
“Delicious drinks and breakfast! Very attentive bartenders . First time visiting this morning the fast service and quality of drinks and food were outstanding excellent!!!Thank you !!! I’ll be back for sure !”
“Such a great experience. We also had chicharones wagyu tacos, but we are them too fast to take pics. Can't wait to go back, this is my new favorite Mexican restaurant.”
“My wife and I enjoyed a delightful evening at El Gaucho Tacoma as we celebrated our 39th anniversary. Shelly provided impeccable service and the food was marvelous! We particularly liked the special recognition on the personalized menu and card on the table. Thank you for making our visit a wonderful experience.”
“Very short staffed due to a family emergency. We waited one hour for our first cocktail. I felt sorry for them. The food was very good but it took so long for everything. The waitress kept apologizing but once she told us there was a family emergency then we knew what was causing all of the delays.  My only complaint about the food is at the menu said the item came with rice, but instead it came with a large amount of pasta, and I am gluten intolerant, and they don't serve gluten-free pasta. Otherwise, I would not have ordered it. The salmon was excellent.”
“Good food - especially for all-you-can eat - and an atmosphere that feels authentically Japanese and excellent robot servers. Love it & planning to come back with friends/ family!”
Online Reservation Available
“Really wonderful place for a date night. The staff was incredibly friendly, the food was amazing, and the ambiance of the restaurant was great. Would definitely come here again. I had the over the moon lasagna and my wife had the scallops. Both were excellent!”
“This was the best meal my husband and i have ever had in our life! Every part of the meal was perfect. We absolutely loved the vibe and atmosphere, i loved the upbeat music. Isaak, our server, gave phenomenal service, explained the menu exceptionally and gave awesome recommendations.”
“Very short staffed due to a family emergency. We waited one hour for our first cocktail. I felt sorry for them. The food was very good but it took so long for everything. The waitress kept apologizing but once she told us there was a family emergency then we knew what was causing all of the delays.  My only complaint about the food is at the menu said the item came with rice, but instead it came with a large amount of pasta, and I am gluten intolerant, and they don't serve gluten-free pasta. Otherwise, I would not have ordered it. The salmon was excellent.”
“My wife and I enjoyed a delightful evening at El Gaucho Tacoma as we celebrated our 39th anniversary. Shelly provided impeccable service and the food was marvelous! We particularly liked the special recognition on the personalized menu and card on the table. Thank you for making our visit a wonderful experience.”
“This was a nice spot downtown. It’s both the type of place people could enjoy a nice evening out and the type of place I could stop in to grab just a regular cup of coffee before heading to my conference. Everyone was super friendly and I could see they are tied in to the community and wanting their customers to feel like regulars.”
“Good food - especially for all-you-can eat - and an atmosphere that feels authentically Japanese and excellent robot servers. Love it & planning to come back with friends/ family!”
“Favorite steakhouse in WA, have been dining here for about 15 years. The ambient lighting, intimate seating, and sumptuous food make Asado an ideal choice for date night (try the lomo).”
“We get take out here a couple times a month and it’s a go to for us. Always great food and service. Although I love the cookies, I only wish they were consistent… sometimes big, sometimes small, sometimes soft, sometimes super crispy. Regardless, a favorite spot of ours!”
“It's one of the best pork chops around, especially when you add a side of creamy polenta. I have been here several time is the last few months on different occasions and they haven't disappointed. Several items on the menu that will leave you wanting more. A must try ?”
“From my wedding to anniversaries, birthdays and just because, Celebrity Cake Studio has been our first choice since 2011. The latest occasion was my husband's 50th birthday. I ordered the 8" Golden Ombré (blackberry cake). As with previous orders, it was a hit! Customer service is always top tier. They are the friendliest people. Stop by...just do it.”
“Ever since I moved away from home I craved that warm comfort Vietnamese food gave me. This is both affordable and comforting. Very flavorful and filling. The beef pho is my favorite and the caramelized salmon banh mi is to die for. Highly recommend! Will be coming back often!!”
“This place is fire. Don't live with mom so I don't get authentic Vietnamese anymore and this is as close as you can get.Vegetarian options: Just ask them to replace all meat with tofu. Beware for the broth though as a lot is bone-broth.Dietary restrictions: I eat mainly seafood and found a good selection here for me.”
“I was able to make a dinner reservation on the day of. I ordered some nigiri and rolls (one deep fried and one fresh salmon roll). Rolls were okay, but was not worth 20 dollars each. On the other hand, sashimi and nigiri were very fresh and delicious. I highly recommend amaebi and salmon nigiri. Parking was not difficult. I just parked by the Y and walked a block or two down.”
“Went to En Rama for the first time this week and loved it. Very small & cozy setting, the staff was all extremely friendly, and the pasta I had was AMAZING. The wine pour was a tad light and the old fashioned my date had seemed light as well, but very good anyway. Will definitely be back!”
“This place is wonderful— especially on the patio. It’s enclosed and there are blankets on every chair. We both started with espressos and then got a 4 cup French press to share. I got the French onion soup and my friend got salmon Benedict. I would definitely come again and make sure you make a reservation.”
13
Asado
“Favorite steakhouse in WA, have been dining here for about 15 years. The ambient lighting, intimate seating, and sumptuous food make Asado an ideal choice for date night (try the lomo).”
14
Da Tiki Hut
“We get take out here a couple times a month and it’s a go to for us. Always great food and service. Although I love the cookies, I only wish they were consistent… sometimes big, sometimes small, sometimes soft, sometimes super crispy. Regardless, a favorite spot of ours!”
“LITERALLY ME AND MY FIANCÉS NEW FAVORITE PLACE! Justin is our favorite ! He’s the bar manager and he explained the menu, paid attention to our wants and completely came thru . will definitely recommend this place to everyone that i know . if you’re looking for great food, and exceptional service, this is the place !!!!!”
24 Hour Restaurants
“Had a great time in our private touring with Wayne to learn how he makes his absolutely delicious Kombucha! We also did a vertical tasting of the same flavor from different batches. Very interesting idea and fun experience! After all the tasting, he also offered free pack of kombucha to take with us on our trip. We really enjoyed them in the mountains! Highly recommend.”
“After coming to this place for over a year, I must say that I'm sad to be moving away :( The friendliest baristas around. Super fast service. Always great conversation, and tasty coffee. Great way to start your day!”
“My waitress Lisa was so nice and checked on me frequently to make sure my coffee was refilled and to make sure my food was to my satisfaction. Also informed me of discounts that may be available. I would definitely eat there again!”
“The Employees there are very outgoing friendly and enjoyable to talk with, They make the drinks very great , there willing to fix it the way you want it as well... Definitely 5 out of 5 love BigFoot Java.”
“I got a plain latte. Coffee was pretty good, service was efficient, and best of all they served it at the perfect temperature. It's so great to get a coffee that is perfectly hot but drinkable right away without scalding my mouth.”
“Cons: The line formation was confusing to get in. Some people were paying at the front, in line or just lingering to get seated. Didn’t help that the hostess were there but they were closed.The food was mediocre. Ordered the Asian cuisine $50 for 2. The hot mustard for the bbq pork was spicy and cleared my sinus, Mongolian beef was super tender and the rest of the items were meh. It’s open 24/7 so would be a good place to dine at in the middle of the nightThe place was clean and the service was great. Olivia was our server and she did an excellent job. She was on top of water/coke refills, was friendly/attentive but not overly in your space. 5 star for her 3 for everything else.”
“Being served by the manager lady was as pleasant as it gets on a Thursday morning. Quick, genuinely courteous, and sandwich made the way it should be. What more could a guy want out of a Subways? The meatball marinera was delicious. Way to lead by example. Thank ”
“Service was a bit slow at this location, but the food was Great! I ordered the new version of spicy chicken and waffles 4 out of 5 starsWas not too busy, located in ”
“Al pastor burrito use to be really good but I bought it 2 times recently and it's not the same anymore. This one lacks flavor that I'm eating right now :/ I wanna give it 3.5 ”
“This is my favorite of all the Bigfoot Javas in the area. I always love my coffee and they are super fast. Only card is accepted but that seems to be alot of places these days.”
“Four stars for affordability and vegan options. They offer salsa cups on the side. The flavor was a bit lacking, but I didn't get sick.Vegetarian options: Vegan options”
“Store clean from front door to the sandwich counter. The veggies looked fresh AND WERE, Bread was being freshly made the night employee let me have my sandwich made with fresh bread and it was amazing. I like my sandwich a little bit “extra” made a certain way and executed just as asked. Switched gloves and washed hands and wasn’t pushy about upselling very subtle about me needing a drink to wash it down and the cookies were made fresh so why not? Lmao 10/10 bring ya mamma and friends open 24/7 was very convenient and she had 20 people come in right after me and got everyone’s order made and done at the same tenacity as mines.Vegetarian options: They have veggie options that is clearly labeledWheelchair accessibility: Yes wheelchair accessible”
“I grew up going to this subway. When I was way younger, up to a decade ago, so many Wednesdays after choir rehearsal my mom took me here for dinner. I recently started hanging out here before choir rehearsal. It's different now, almost feels smaller, but it's almost as good as it used to be. I like the service, and sometimes a sandwich, but sometimes it's nice to just hang around too.”
“The main server on a Saturday night around 2 was out flirting with all the guys at one table instead of sitting us, we were standing there for about 15 minutes and thankfully I believe she's the cooked that come and sat us. Food was ”
“Everything was great - the only concern I have is in regards to the app- I choose a coupon on the app then I wanted to change to something different, so the app said I could not use another coupon for 15 minutes- this was very frustrating. But it was not the fault of the restaurant.”
“It's one of the best pork chops around, especially when you add a side of creamy polenta. I have been here several time is the last few months on different occasions and they haven't disappointed. Several items on the menu that will leave you wanting more. A must try ?”
17
Waffle Stop
“Been here twice for breakfast now and will absolutely go back! Very good food and I just LOVE the atmosphere -- everything is decorated so perfectly!I would say only go here if you love waffles or are craving them. Most of the menu is waffle-related and I haven't tried the whole menu of course but the non-waffle food items that I did taste were a bit mediocre but everything waffle-related is amazing!!”
18
Cooks Tavern
“Finally got to try this place. Had breakfast and the food was delicious! Nashville hot chicken with a bacon waffle and bourbon syrup. Every bit as good as it sounds! Good service, nice ambience. Saw lots more that looked amazing on the menu. Will definitely be back.”
Takeout Restaurants
“This gelato is better than any gelato I had in Italy. <3 It is insanely smooth, full of flavor and has a long lasting taste in your mouth. I will be going back here over and over again. Keep up the AMAZING work!”
“Absolutely the cutest lil coffee shop. The barista was so sweet and helpful. We need more people like her. The sweet saying on the lids of the coffee was much needed and loved today.Parking: It was easy to park mid day on a Saturday.”
“Always friendly, and consistently the best cup of coffee I can find in Tacoma. Myself or anyone I bring with me has never been disappointed with the coffee here, and the young ladies are always very kind. A line does build up on occasion.”
“This place is a 10/10 for me. Great services, great food! I saw a review saying the food was “bland”? And I don’t know where they got that idea because it was far from bland in my opinion. The chicken in my souvlaki was seasoned perfectly. The tzatziki was also excellent. They really treat you like a well loved customer and it’s great to know the staff cares about their job.Kid-friendliness: The owner gave some kids a little treat for free.”
“Little India Express in Tacoma offers a delightful experience, with their masala chai standing out as a highlight. Catering to diverse preferences, they serve halal lamb and goat dishes. What sets them apart is their willingness to accommodate special requests, providing halal options in beef and chicken. Beyond the flavorful offerings, the restaurant's warm hospitality adds a touch of kindness to the overall dining experience. Let's support establishments like Little India Express that embrace diversity and cater to various dietary needs.Dietary restrictions: Halal”
“Every time I come here, my experience has been absolutely phenomenal.The atmosphere is created by both patrons and employees and you could just hang all day!The artwork as well as the food capture the eye right away!Ive only ever had their cinnamon roll but it is THE most delicious cinnamon roll ive ever had in my life (and i love cinnamon rolls) it doesnt overwhelm and they are MASSIVE & affordable ❤️We drove all the way from Oregon JUST to get a cinnamon roll :)Give. Me. An. Excuse.My partner and I recommend this place forevermore!!”
“My wife and I really enjoy everything about this place, the food, service and atmosphere are terrific! Having the live jazz there add a real bonus to the whole experience. ?”
“I love this place. Great food (the Ruben is my favorite) and a good selection of beer. Service is always friendly and prompt, and prices are appropriate for the quality/atmosphere. The semi-outdoor seating area is really nice, too.”
“Highly recommend!Owner is one of the nicest businessmen we’ve ever met. When not too busy, he makes sure all the little details are cared for. Customer service is 10/10, and the fish are one of the BEST around?no frills, just good fish, good fries, and good sauce.”
“Cactus was an amazing surprise! I come from Texas where the TexMex is abundant and I didn’t expect to find some familiar flavors up here in Washington! The spicy mango michelada was refreshing and the birria tacos and fajitas were great! Whenever I come back to visit, I’ll be sure to stop by Cactus!”
“Great place to grab a bite and a pint, delicious selection of food and drinks…conveniently located on 6th Ave in Tacoma, with street parking close to the restaurant.”
“Family friendly! They have Atari & Nintendo gaming systems in the back. No food but you can order food from a bunch of local restaurants or pizza from next door!”
“(I didn't rate the food because I have food allergies--and I heard the menu is changing as of March or April 2024)The cider is amazing and the friendly staff is extremely knowledgeable about it. The handcrafted urban chic decor is conducive to great conversation and the musical offerings on Fridays and Saturdays have been top notch.”
“Ordered their grilled pork banh mi, which was very flavorful. I just wished that there was less fat in the meat overall. About 30% of the pork was fat, which I had to take out. Otherwise, service and atmosphere were great!”
“I have eaten here several times and never been disappointed. The service is great, food, clean bathrooms! I would highly recommend trying the prime rib after 4p.”
“Excellent sauerkraut and potatoe salad with bratwurst appetizer, which was also good with a large salad. The chicken cordon Bleu slightly dry, but still very good. The vegetable medley with it was good. The red fruit dessert was was unusual , liquid and very good, wirh taste of cherries and berries.”
“My husband and I were visiting my brother and his wife for their wedding and decided to check the area for a good Asian spot. We were visiting from STL and our favorite STL Asian restaurant was also called Indo. We had to try. Of course this is not a chain, so we were curious how well the two compared.All I can say is wow.This place is ?? ‼️The flavors, ambiance, service, quality -- this will be a staple when we go back to visit for sure.Our recommendations would be the Vermicelli Noodle Bowl and Pork Belly Yakitori.Vegetarian options: Tofu, saladDietary restrictions: Gluten free and dairy free”
“I always enjoy their Catfish the most but also the Red Beans and Rice and Mac n cheese, even though the owner is mean to me(childhood friend)... Lol! Good stuff, come check them out.”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“I’ve been coming to this coffee shop for over 6 years and the Raspberry Truffle (now known as Berry Truffle) never disappoints me. They even shave dried raspberry on top to finish it off. A Family owned place with everything made in house (including growing their own coffee beans), this place has been a staple for me in the south Tacoma area. Do NOT sleep!”
“This is one of the best local gems. They make incredible sandwiches. They're generally really quick, I usually call in advance and just come in and pick up my sandwiches, which is extremely convenient. They use only quality ingredients, which makes for a very delicious sandwich!”
“The staff are so friendly. Service was fast. My veggie burrito was amazing and I even got an actual mini bottle of hot sauce ?. Coffe was yummy as well. Will be backVegetarian options: I got veggie burrito which was amazing. They even give you actual bottles of mini hot sauce.”
“Very authentic feel here and absolutely amazing value for money. The beans and rice were absolutely perfect and the fish taco/birria some of the best we have had in US. Service is also fast and excellent. They also have a salsa stand with a wide variety of toppings which comes in handy. Also generally large portion sizes so order accordingly!”
“Love the service every time you pull up to the drive through the young ladies.Are smiling?They're happy.They're very friendly and very attentive to what you're ordering best ”
“I've been wanting to try this place for so long! One of my followers requested that I check them out and I'm so glad that I did! The lumpias are AMAZING and the customer service is SPECTACULAR!!!! I will forever be a fan of Northwest Lumpia! If you're reading this follow eatwithjustinm on TikTok YouTube and ”
“My husband and I ordered teriyaki and sweet and sour chicken and 2 orders of their $7.99 fish and chips (pollock fish, very good) and it was ready very quickly and it was absolutely amazing!! The lady at the counter was very nice and very friendly. The food was still hit when we got home too. Great little place with great food and employees. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants good hot food at great prices.Kid-friendliness: Plenty of kid-friendly options. Multiple flavors of milkshakes. Yummy in my tummy good.”
“The food was good what you expect from I was the ser I e was great the young man who helped us was very nice and helpful the restaurant was clean it was a great ”
“This burger is the best classic burger I've had in Tacoma. I've tried quite a few different places and have been quite dissatisfied. Frisko Freeze is trash compared to Legendz. Highly suggest eating here. The wait is a lil long but I don't mind waiting because the food is pretty damn good.”
“Handmade tortillas on the spot.Food is good, it gives me like a fast food Mexican restaurant, parking can be difficult, especially during lunch hours.They have a condiment bar with salsas and toppings to choose from, I recommend the pickled carrots.Kid-friendliness: Big and spacious dining area.”
“I ordered the Super Chicken Burrito that was stuffed full of chicken, rice, and beans. It also came with sour cream and guacamole. I loved it, but thought I would only eat half as it's almost too much for one meal. However, so so good I could not put it down until I finished! Stephen got the Regular Burrito with carnitas. He felt it was okay but said the pork was too dry. Probably seemed that way since he chose not to have salsa. It also was heavy on the whole beans so that was another factor for him. He prefers refried beans, but didn't see that as an option for mobile orders. I would think if you ate there you could get these two things the way you wanted. I will definitely be back and maybe eat in next time to try something else on the menu. I only gave 4-stars for service because the staff was clearly overwhelmed at dinner with a long wait at the counter. They really need to hire an extra person for the front end. Especially with having a drive thru and counter so busy.Wheelchair accessibility: Wheelchair parking spot about 10 'from the front entrance and with a flat surface. Plenty of room to navigate in the restaurant.”
“One of the foodies that I follow recommend this place for their Carne Asada Potato. It looked good, so that's specifically what I went there for, and I enjoyed it. My wife got tacos and loved that as well, but then she had a bite of my potato and wished she had gotten that as well. My only complaint was the seats being slightly uncomfortable, it felt like the seat we sat at was about to collapse.”
“Great service from the guy behind the counter, polite, friendly with a great smile. Ordered two family size and a large and we were out of there in less than 15 min.”
“The friendly, upbeat staff at this branch of Cutters Point will start your day right... Not only with a well crafted coffee drink, but kindness and quickness.The food is solid - I appreciate the many savory choices in addition to the sweet. My favorite is the vegan breakfast sandwich. I have also brought the Italian sandwich by Alki Bakery they carry to my co workers and they like it very much.They have a drive through and easy parking here, plenty of seating as well...a solid stop.”
“I always stop by this place in the mornings while I'm working in the area. I just adored this cute little cafe and all of the food variety they offer.I get the Piroshky which is delicious in all of its varieties. The service is friendly and I am happy to support this local business.”
“I have come to this place several times and I always leave with a smile. I love the atmosphere and the way everyone treats you.Great food, great customer service, and great music”
“I was able to make a dinner reservation on the day of. I ordered some nigiri and rolls (one deep fried and one fresh salmon roll). Rolls were okay, but was not worth 20 dollars each. On the other hand, sashimi and nigiri were very fresh and delicious. I highly recommend amaebi and salmon nigiri. Parking was not difficult. I just parked by the Y and walked a block or two down.”
24
Sushido
“This is the best sushi I have ever had! The fish is amazing and so so fresh! The staff is friendly and have amazing service. This is the first time bringing the kids (8 and 5). They loved it!Parking: Parking is right out front and there are lots of spots for parking.”
Cheap Eats
“Absolutely love this place!! The food is amazing, it felt like a lot a love is put into the meal. The bartender does an amazing job on drinks. The staff is amazing. I love the chimichurri steak bowl, it's so tasty! It's my first time there and I'm excited to try more food on their menu. So glad they play great music too.”
“I've been searching for a good seared salmon nigiri in the area but haven't had any luck. Most of the sushi places we visit don't even offer it on their menu. However, this spot has the perfect seared salmon nigiri. I'll definitely be returning here for more.”
“Awesome little Irish pub. The food was great. The atmosphere was laid back on the night we went with some sports playing on the TVs. Not too busy for a Saturday night. But definitely not empty. Lively and fun.”
“This is a hidden gem. Despite its location in one of the rougher areas of Tacoma, this donut shop is 100% worth the visit. I recommend going in the morning because they do sell out of top sellers pretty quick (for good reason). I've never been disappointed here and I'm sure you won't be either.”
“YES!Update 2022... Still the most amazing Thai food place in Pierce and King County. I absolutely love everything about this business. (Only wish it was closer to me ?) The food Never Ever Ever Disappoints me or anyone I bring here.The price is always amazing, and I make sure to tip as well as possible because they are Sooooo deserving of it!The portions are perfect!The decorations are traditional! What else can I say?? 6 stars!! But if you you order that many... you might be in trouble. ?Update 2024.. still amazing!!! The prices have increased, but that was something everyone should understand! Keep in mind it’s still cheaper than “Fast food” and 1 million times better! I will always come back to this place!Owners are so nice and I can’t complain ever!”
“I accidentally stumbled onto this place after fi ishi g a hard math final. Just athe atmosphere and quality food and friendly staff I needed! Will be frequenting here ”
“One word: home. This place is amazing. Ordered fried rice, chicken katsu, and chicken teriyaki to go. One bite: home. This food brought me home in South Korea eating my moms food. As a half generation Korean, this place brought me memories I haven’t had in a long time. Thank you.”
“Wait was not that long, they called our cell to let us know when a table was ready. Place was packed and servers always had smiles going at all time. Coffee cup was never empty. I love it!”
“This coffee shop will make anyone happy on their worst of days. Bright pink affirming happiness. The friendliest people and the coffee is perfectly flavored. 10/10”
“Look no further, this is the truck you have been searching for. Deep flavor, hint of smoke, very balanced spices and seasonings. Even the sauces that come with the food are amazing. Definitely saving whatever sauce is left to drizzle on later!”
“Epic burger, amazing people! The hot lips burger was just the right spicy. The meat tender and juicy and spiced to perfection. Onion crunch burger saucy and crunchy. Support this amazing place and the wonderful, real people that run it. Big soul here.”
“There's many bars / taverns / pubs etc. around the general area but this has become my partner and I's favorite and most visited spot to go out for food and drinks. They have an amazing beer selection and there food is made with so much love and soul.Everything on their menu is great from my experience but also they have a unique entree on special every day and a different scratch-made soup each day of the week. My partner and I order the specials almost every time we go: the entree or the soup or both! And they never disappoint. Their clam chowder (w/ bacon) is the best I've ever had. From their regular menu I highly recommend the french dip sandwich or any burger.”
“Great food... The catfish is well seasoned and you can tell the grease they use is clean. My son who is a dang critic of chicken strips was bragging to his gaming buddies about how good they were. We got home and saw they put a piece of BBQ chicken in the bag, which was so good. It was definitely a nice surprise, thank you. We will be back for sure... Thank you for the good food and amazing service.”
“On our way home, we sought a spot for a quick bite. Upon entering, we were greeted with warm smiles in this charming place. It being our first visit, the owner kindly suggested some options, sharing his favorites. Opting for the German Hoagie, we deferred to his topping preferences.Though initially planning to eat on the go, one bite of the German Hoagie convinced us otherwise. The amalgamation of flavors – meats, toppings, bread – demanded a moment to relish. We ended up savoring our meal in the parking lot, returning to express gratitude to the delightful couple (presumed owners). Undoubtedly, a place worth revisiting and recommending!”
“Such a darling little cider house! Our first time there we went for the cheese and cider flight amd are planning on going back for many more of these events they will be hosting. Service was top notch even though they were busy, indoor & outdoor seating. Very clean 10/10 would ”
“I’ll preface this review by saying I am cranky today and was a first time visitor.The experience at Gather today did help alleviate some of my cranky. Gather had the exact product I was seeking, and ready to leave in less than a minute after ordering, which was just a moment in time as well. All in all, I was in the building less than a couple of minutes and felt some cranky leave my body as I recognized the great service, product and vibe I just observed. Will definitely return.”
“Myself and a friend have been debating who has the best pizza in Tacoma. I've been here a few times, but just now feel compelled to make a review. This is it. This is the best pizza in town. From the crazy specials every week that make your mouth water to the regular menu which is not only unique, but delicious. The crust is as perfect as I've found anywhere in the region. Thin, but holds up to even the meatiest pizza on their menu. Perfectly charred. Perfectly crisp.I love it here. I'm going to make a point of coming here more now.”
27
En Rama
“Went to En Rama for the first time this week and loved it. Very small & cozy setting, the staff was all extremely friendly, and the pasta I had was AMAZING. The wine pour was a tad light and the old fashioned my date had seemed light as well, but very good anyway. Will definitely be back!”
“Celebrating Lunar New Year and Mardi Gras at the same time with a Cajun seafood boil. $55 for a 2-person meal seems like a great deal for us. The house garlic butter sauce is amazing. Crawfish, snowcrab, clams, & prawns. Ref potatoes, corn & sausage too. Yummo!!”
“This place is wonderful— especially on the patio. It’s enclosed and there are blankets on every chair. We both started with espressos and then got a 4 cup French press to share. I got the French onion soup and my friend got salmon Benedict. I would definitely come again and make sure you make a reservation.”
“I'm a big fan of otters so when I was driving by this place while visiting Tacoma it was a no brainer! Delicious ciders as a non-beer fan, and everyone was so friendly! We took advantage of their board games and hung out for a while. Quite a fun souvenir too as I bought a shot glass!!”
31
Manuscript
“If you're wondering where to go for a cool brunch, look no further. We went to Manuscript for Sunday brunch, and I am still thinking about it on Thursday! The staff was quick and polite, and the food was excellent. The place has a cool vibe, the type of place you want to catch up with an old friend over a beverage and some crispy pork belly.....which is amazing because every table looked like they were having a beverage and amazing breakfast!We had a breakfast sandwich, the pork belly hash, and a GIANT Lemon grab Baby (which is just like a Dutch baby only with lemon curd and huckleberry jam). There wasn't a scrap of food left over. Everything was so amazingly tasty that we all left fully and happy.We will definitely be back to try more of their menu. It is a great place to go in Tacoma!”
32
The Table
“Food was enjoyable especially the salmon and the scallops. The dessert was also excellent! However, service was slow. Took ~30 mins to get my salmon entree. Would go back again though!”
“I had the beef salad, 4 star. 4 star was good and spicy, at my edge. Delicious. My table weenies were at 2 star and they enjoyed theirs- they suggested the place to me. Service was kind and helpful, decor is pretty standard, clean and tidy. Glad I went!”
“We had an amazing time. Our waiter was so friendly and prompt (I wish I remembered his name. ) We came in a Thursday night which was perfect to avoid the crowds. I was able to make a reservation and sit by the window. The bread was excellent it comes with salted butter and served warm. My sister said her long island was the best she's ever had. Our steaks were cooked well done as requested and still juicy and flavorful. Everything is essentially Ala carte although you do get a little bit of garlic potatoes as a garnish with your steak and a choice of soup or salad. We will definitely come again. Oh and my waiter made me a cappuccino himself and added flavor since I like a little sweetness to mine and I appreciated that very much.Parking: This steakhouse is located on the 11th floor of the EQC hotel so you have to park in their garage and go up to the hotel. Then you will go up again to the top floor and the entire floor is the restaurant. If you go on a weekend parking might be a little more inconvenient.Kid-friendliness: If you have well behaved children they can absolutely come. If you don't, please don't bring them and ruin other people's dinners. Especially at these prices you're paying for the experience as well as the food.”
“Good food (sandwiches), good beer (wide selection) and cool atmosphere (industrial).Parking is all on street and limited (we had to park block away and up a steep hill) but it was worth the descent and climb back to car. Truly a Tacoma kind of place! Look forward to going again when back in Tacoma!”
“Although as the Proctor District goes this place is fairly new, it looks like it's been built for 100 years. It fits right in the Proctor District.The wait staff was very attentive and courteous. The food was quick and delicious. There are plenty of drink options and even drinks to go. It's a beer and wine place, although I prefer the cider. There was plenty of seating for us at lunch on a Saturday. Parking sometimes can be a bear but that's what it is in the area. I walked a block and a half wasn't too bad. I'll definitely be going back. Great place to bring friends from out of town.”
37
Viva Tacoma
“I can eat here and have absolutely no concerns! The food is always very good and the desserts of course LOLVegetarian options: For someone with Celiac disease, like myself, having a restaurant like Viva's is a life changer as far as being able to eat out without fear of gluten contamination. I just wish there was one closer to us in PuyallupDietary restrictions: Gluten FreeVegan”
“Love this place. All of it is good but can’t get enough of their creamy pesto salad dressing! Helpful tip: order a side of it to dip the sourdough bread. ? and who doesn’t love spumoni?!?”
“Came on a Wednesday it started off slow but immediately got full. Food was decent could be better. Miss the old menu. Service tonight was great the best it’s been. She was attentive and friendly and took great care of my party. It’s a small place but worth visiting.”
40
1022 South J
“We shared the fried chicken and waffles (the lemon was a knockout surprise), the cheesy tots (which were a flavor bomb), and the biscuits and gravy (I never like that dish cuz it's kinda boring, but these were anything but). We truly couldn't choose a favorite. Sooo good. Seriously. We were only upset that we got full and couldn't eat more. Bravo! Great vibe too!”
“The food is delicious! Not only that it's filling like they give you enough to actually feel like you've eaten. A nice setting clean environment. I recommend to anyone who loves Mexican food!Parking: There is plenty of parking sometimes it gets kind of hard to find it especially around rush hours”
“Brilliant food.I loved the alfredo chicken pasta. It was yummy. The quantity and quality was so good. One order was enough for 2 people. The bread sticks were so soft.The salad was good too.”
“My best friend's wife recommended this restaurant to me. I was totally surprised by the size and selection of the menu. I decided to order the Burrito Tonala. It should've been called Burrito Grande. Half of it went home with me.The other three guests ordered Tilapia, enchiladas, and steak fajitas. .No complaints. The service was quick and accurate. I'll be back.Parking: Parking is not an issue.”
“This place is a trip. A time and location warp. This place would look the same in a southern TX town in the 1960s. They prioritize great BBQ and service, nothing else. I spoke with the owner and his mom for awhile, they preside over the oldest BBQ joint in the state. We ordered half the menu, all of it was awesome. I will be back.”
“The food was cooked to perfection and served in a reasonable time frame. The server answered our questions and informed us of our optionsKid-friendliness: The server helped make sure our little one was taken care of and brought us the proper menu”
“First time here. Loved the food, wine and chatting with the owner. We managed to get a last minute reservation on a Saturday and so grateful we got to try it out. We arrived really hungry and ordered quite a few items on the menu. We started with the warmed cheese, then on to the flat bread pizza and French onion soup. Everything was delicious. Can't wait to go back!”
“The food was amazing. We had a party of 10 for a birthday and they put us in the room with the fireplace which is awesome. It was nice and private and we felt like we could all talk without overpowering other guests around us. However, the room was really cold, the fireplace was not on and there was no music to set a mood. Maybe if we had been in the main dining area that atmosphere might've felt a little bit more warm and cozy.That was the first time any of us has been there. We all agreed that we would go back and try again, because the food was so delicious!”
48
Dito Tayo
“Family owned restaurant. Masarap boneless Bangus and monggo. It gets busy of the delicious food they cook. They broadcasting Superbowl NFL for the dine -in customer. Highly recommend authentic restaurant.”
“I have never been Meconis before last weekend but I’ll be back. I went in with a large group on a busy weekend, which is enough to peeve any server. But our server Maya was AMAZING. She was so attentive, personable and genuine. She made our night!”
“McDuff’s has a cozy atmosphere, great coffee, and friendly baristas. The milk in my latte was steamed perfectly and the latte art was a really nice touch. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.”
“We came here for brunch on my mother's birthday, and it was FAB-U-LOUS!Parking was a pain, admittedly, but that's a stadium district problem.As for Art House itself? Divine. We were seated quickly, served quickly, and satisfied quickly with friendly and informative servers with expedient and careful service.The atmosphere was fun and lively! With great window seating on a sunny downtown day.And the food? Oh my God it was wonderful! A touch pricier but worth twice it's cost in flavor, easily.I look forward to returning again in the future and trying more of their expansive, delicious menu in the future. And next time, I'll take the Link instead ?”
“Nice down to Earth feel on the water. Casual with a touch of class. I personally like this place and half for over 45 years.Our server Craig was a disappointment. Luckily the atmosphere was not. We only saw him three times never checked up on us and we were there for two hours.”
“Great service Everytime, (Disclaimer) slow service lately 3-11-2024, food is giant portions, at a great price. Best place to be on a game day. Our choice of places to stop is here. Quality is on par alsoWheelchair accessibility: ADA”
“Group from the office gathered here and we had a great time! Lots of creative and tasty beer choices as well as scrumptious food options. Definitely will be back!!”
“We went here today for lunch for 4 at 11:30. We had a great time. The Hostess and Manager met us at the door to open up. Very friendly and welcoming. We were served by a handsome, dark haired guy, who was friendly, knowledgeable, and gave us great service!?(wish we could remember his name) 3 of us had the Salmon ? entree with rice and asparagus.? Excellent Chef!! David had the pasta seafood dish.?.”
“There are not a lot of sushi restaurants in Tacoma, and of those I know of, they tend to think they're in Seattle and it's okay to charge $20 a roll, or competing with gas stations to make you nervous, this place is the exception. It's affordable, not pretentious, cute interior with pretty solid sushi, (I stick with the veggie options but my friends have all enjoyed the fish, so second hand account on the actual sushi)If you live in the area and want sushi, I definitely recommend it, for whatever that's worth :)P.S. I'm grading this a bit on a curve due to the other options I've had, but it's a review so definitely biased in some way or another.”
57
Lobster Shop
“This is a wonderful experience! The food is spectacular. Our server was so incredibly energetic and happy. The view from our table was majestic.I highly recommend it.”
“Tiki bar was less than inviting. Staff seemed nonchalant about cleaning tables and serving clients as well, perhaps it was a bad day all around, will try again and see if the mood improves and maybe the service ”
“What a fabulous discovery!I enjoyed some tasty locally brewed beer and a generous charcuterie tray that could easily feed 4 on a Friday night before closing. I'll plan to return for their bingo event or trivia night, soon!”
“The doughnuts were fantastic! There was a mix up with the doughnuts, and one was missing from the box - went back and they were so nice. They apologized and made it right. Definitely will be back!”
“Absolutely some of the best sushi I’ve ever had. We had to order more rolls even though we were getting full because it was so good. Great flavor, and kind, helpful staff. I will be back for sure.”
“Had dinner at the Wild Orchid before taking in a concert at Jazzbones. We arrived early on a Friday and were the first ones seated that evening. The host/server was very welcoming and took our order promptly. As you can see from the pictures, the presentation of the food was above our expectations. The food was delicious and we enjoyed the coconuts prawns while our entrees were being prepared. The food was very flavorful and the portions were on par. For us, the best part in this dining out economy was the price. We felt that the experience was well worth what we paid.”
“Love this place! Quality of the food is amazing and the staff members are awesome! Best, hibachi in Washington State and food from the kitchen are generous portions.”
64
Boathouse 19
“Ate there twice this week. Once with an old employee and once with my daughter. Happy hour prices were very reasonable. The rockfish dinner was excellent. Will go again.”
“Three words: Chicken and WafflesIf you haven't been here and you're a local, make it your next stop. There is lots of variety in the entree and appetizer options. We all tried something distinctly different and were pleased with our choice!Our waitress was super nice and attentive to us. We felt welcomed while we dined and not at all like we were burdening them.”
“One of the cheapest places for gas in the area. Add Fred Meyer fuel points, now we're talking big savings on fuel. The place is always busy. I guess the word gets out. Add to that, a good size convenience store and deli. And if that wasn't enough for you, a drive through smoke shop. I don't smoke any more, but I'm told it's one of the cheapest places for tobacco.”
“I’ve traveled all over the world, have been to japan multiple times, and this is still the best quality sushi I’ve ever had. I wish I could rate this place higher.”
“I love it here. It gets really busy September through mid May but it has a great atmosphere. Nothing quite like a college café. The baristas are really good at remembering regular's orders and everyone is so friendly. Definitely my go to café in Tacoma. Huge variety of options for coffee, and they're always very consistent.”
“Cool place to hang out and enjoy yourself. If your game and had a few drinks, you can totally play hide and seek as there are several floors and hidden rooms. Just don't play on the 6th floor as that's the hotel and would be messed up.Tuck yourself away in the vault and avoid a larger crowd or go ham and mingle with everyone everywhere else!Drinks are always good no matter the bar you go to and be prepared as there's probably something going on at the venue there, so fork over the cover and have a good time!”
“We like the ever-changing craft beverage menu and the variety of food items. I've had the Jamaican Rice Bowl twice recently - once with prawns and once with chicken. It was very flavorful both times. My only complaint and it's tiny, is we ordered coffee at the end of the meal and it was lukewarm at best. On a busy Saturday night, I didn't want to bother the server who I'm sure would have replaced it if I'd asked.”
“This is a sexy Mexican restaurant. The interior design is beautiful and thoughtfully planned. The carnitas and beef tacos were delicious. Tasty Margaritas and cold beer. There is a outdoor seating area and I cant wait till the weather warms up to sit outside and dine. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for authentic Mexican food.”
“I don't know if anyone would consider it authentic Mexican food, but it certainly is what I expect when I go out to eat Mexican food. We have been dining there a lot lately, and have had consistently good food and good service. The portions are very large. My wife and I often split the Trio Fajitas, and we get plenty of food and we both really enjoy it. They always keep us going with chips and salsa. The salsa is not that great, but that would be my only complaint.We recently ate at Cactus in Proctor, and felt like our food and service is so much better and much cheaper at El Toro. The portions are much larger and the food is much closer to what I expect when eating at a Mexican restaurant. The experience at Cactus certainly made us appreciate El Toro much more.Well done, El Toro! We look forward to dining there again soon!Vegetarian options: Not sure how many options there are for vegetarians, but my son gets their Cheese Enchiladas and rice and beans and loves it. Huge portion.”
“The atmosphere, food and service all a fantastic experience. Our server was attentive, efficient and polite. The food was delicious! Highly recommend the beignets:) My only negative and reason for one less star, their house made lemonade tasted as if zero sugar was added and was extremely puckering.”
“This location continues to be the gold standard in customer service. The location is clean the food is good and the staff are exceptional. Every Chuck E Cheese new hire should have to train at this location.Parking: Ample onsite parkingKid-friendliness: Better than the Chuck E Cheese I remember as a kid.”
“They had a very decent Indian Buffet and I haven't found one of those since COVID started. I was heading to Peru for a few weeks and wanted to get something amazing before I left and it fit the bill.”
76
Millhouse
“Probably best pizza ? in Tacoma. Delicate crust and thoughtful high quality toppings make this our time tested favorite.Vegetarian options: It’s pizza so you can mix and match and enjoy.Parking: Street parking. Should be able to find a spot but be ready to walk a block.Kid-friendliness: Casual atmosphere, kiddos (non screaming) would fit right in.”
77
The Forum
“Friday late night-- definitely the place to be if you like to be in the Miyake of everything. It was packed. The service was still excellent and as to be expected given how busy they were. Some of the best food I've had. Unique and distinct flavor combinations make everything Pop! ? Everything was fresh too. Service with a smile.”
78
Opal Lounge
“One of my Top 5 places to eat in Tacoma. Really good BBQ food, CenTex-style (with sauces on the side for those who want them). I've had over half the menu and loved everything, but the Opal Burger with egg is my fav. Solid taplist, incredible whisky selection. Kitchen is scrupulously clean, there is outdoor seating at the front and in the back, for when the weather suits. The owners are great folks and work weekdays if you want to meet them - which I recommend!”
“We ate here a couple days ago and the food was absolutely delicious. I would give it 5 stars if we were able to deviate from what we selected on the menu. They would not let us change out one of the sides, even if we paid a little more. If you want great Thai food this is the place to go.”
“My husband and I got married here Jan 2024 and I have nothing but great things to say about the space, beer and staff. Be prepared if you decide to get married here, you are responsible for the entire set up and clean up. With that being said, there is SO much flexibility in how you want to decorate the space. In addition, the staff are very kind and excellent in the communication process making everything smooth and easy. We had a very intimate small ceremony, about 15 people, then a larger reception with about 80 people. The brewery size was perfect for the amount of people we had. We had a catering company come in to set up food which was plenty of space as well. Later in the night, we played our own music through the brewery’s speakers which we were impressed by the sound system. There is also a mic available so people could share speeches. If we could do anything differently, we would have a company come in and take things down after us because at the end of the night, we were toasted. Highly recommend getting married here if you are looking for a chill, cozy and beer filled wedding!”
“This food is out of this world!!!I am SO grateful I stumbled upon it on my trip!!!Wowzers.I’ve eaten Mexican food all of my life, all over the world, and honestly this is absolutely some of the very best!!!Muchas gracias, Casa Moreno!!!Another amazing thing was that our food was ready in 5 min…which was so helpful since I’m traveling with my horse and need to be speedy!!!!I’ll definitely remember this place on our way back North!I didn’t give any stars on atmosphere since I didn’t eat there. I will say that it looks different now than in the pictures. I really liked the colors and decor in the photos…maybe they are in a remodel phase?”
“A good local mall to visit some of the stores for gift giving. I enjoyed drinking my Starbucks coffee while my grandson played in the playground area. Clean environment, people in general seemed happy being there while walking. Most people smiled at you as a "Hello"!”
83
Jamba
“Love the Mega Mango Plant-based smoothie. It’s my favorite and a great meal substitute. Also really appreciate that you can customize your smoothie. Tonight we got Mango a Go Go smoothies and substituted the sherbert for pineapple juice. Shout out to Solace who gave us great customer service!”
“It's a shame that they're card only. But, it's understandable with the area they in.Vegetarian options: N/ADietary restrictions: N/AParking: It works for the building.”
85
Sip + Spoon
“I absolutely love Sip + Spoon but I go for the Poke bowls! They are amazingly delicious, always so Fresh and I love that they are completely customizable. I highly recommend their Ahi tuna and the shrimp.Dietary restrictions: I have an intolerance to salicylic acid but they do a great job keeping the ingredients separate so I don't worry about eating here. They also have MANY choices that are sal-negligable!”
“Food is always hot and delicious. We've tried some different things from time to time, and often come back to our regular favorites. Everything has been great.”
“My boyfriend and I ate here twice while staying at the La Quinta about a week ago and the server/bartender was awesome. The food was good and she made a really strong Lemon Drop! The bartender also made us drinks to go so we could take them back to our room, which I thought was pretty cool. Would definitely stay and eat here again!”
“Cons: The line formation was confusing to get in. Some people were paying at the front, in line or just lingering to get seated. Didn’t help that the hostess were there but they were closed.The food was mediocre. Ordered the Asian cuisine $50 for 2. The hot mustard for the bbq pork was spicy and cleared my sinus, Mongolian beef was super tender and the rest of the items were meh. It’s open 24/7 so would be a good place to dine at in the middle of the nightThe place was clean and the service was great. Olivia was our server and she did an excellent job. She was on top of water/coke refills, was friendly/attentive but not overly in your space. 5 star for her 3 for everything else.”
“This is my favorite place to come when I'm in Tacoma (so far). It's such a cute place for lunch with the atmosphere and even better for dinner. We had the calamari and the caprese for appetizers (the calamari was a tad overcooked but honestly it's hit or miss with calamari and so easy to accidentally overcook) it was still good and the caprese is *chefs kiss*. We split the Tricolor Tortellini and had a salad that I didn't get a picture of, and this has been one of the best things I've eaten since I moved to Washington. The garlic cream sauce is amazing, and the artichoke hearts with the tomato is just like the cherry on top. I order this every time I'm here and would even get a second order to go because it's so good. 10/10 would eat so much here because it's all been amazing, and I'm already planning what I'm going to have next time we come! They have the ability to seat large groups (both times going have seen a group of 10 people/family here) buy would likely need to call ahead, I've never had to call for a reservation but we also haven't gone during very peak times.Vegetarian options: Caprese, fried ravioli, various salads and tri color ratingWheelchair accessibility: Both entrances do not have steps”
“I hosted a bridal luncheon for my daughter here and they seated the thirteen of us in an area where we didn't disturb other people. Our server did a great job and everyone enjoyed their food.”
“We went late afternoon on a Thursday which was ideal as there was no wait and the buffet was our oasis! It's usually packed on the weekends, but you still get a seat rather quickly. The outside area is not a good indicator of the niceness on the inside, so keep an open mind when attempting to go there. Inside you'll find an incredibly spacious dining area and a buffet with all the classic Oriental main attractions of Kung Pao chicken, Teriyaki Chicken, stir-fried rice, noodles, soups, sushi, the full-on self-create grill, and a full-on dessert bar, saldad bar, assortment of steamsed buns, as well as drinks and hot beverages. There's something for everyone and the service is amazing. Glad I tried it twice over!”
92
Cafe Bistro
“I got a free swag bag of pasta related stuff because I ordered a pasta dish. They gave me a good amount of after dinner mints. The service was very good. I've dined at this bistro for years and it's very good. I recommend their creme brulee for dessert and their kalamata olive aioli dip with fries it's addictive! I usally get the chicken and herb goat cheese sandwich. Very good by the way but, I got this gnocchi dish and because it was pasta month I got a free swag bag sponsored by Barilla since I ordered a pasta dish. If you are hungry while shopping at Nordstrom's it's a great place to check out.”
“Came in here with some co-workers when we were here for a conference. The atmosphere was amazing and we had a wonderful time just hanging out and enjoying the place.”
“I went here for the first time with my brother-in-law and sister. He has grown up here and been there many times.I read a lot of really bad reviews which kind of made me laugh!Our server Lisa, was really busy Manning the pull tab section and serving. She was extremely friendly and efficient We had our drinks, 3 martinis ordered and delivered within about 7 to 10 minutes.The food also came out quickly and was delicious. Their burgers are so tasty!I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the place if you're looking for a good dive bar with great burgers and cocktails! I will definitely be returning.”
“My family stopped into Sammy's on a whim while on a walk around North Slope. First of all, the restaurant was incredibly clean and the staff was very friendly and helpful. We ordered a medium pizza (half garlic chicken/half chicken bacon ranch), a small meat lover's pizza, and a house salad with a chipotle ranch dressing. All of the food was excellent, the ingredients fresh, and served within a timely manner. Our family highly recommends this place and we'll definitely be back very soon!!”
“Went there today for the first time, based almost entirely upon previous reviews. I ended up with the Cuban sandwich. Sandwich came with option of fries, salad or something else that I cannot recall. I had the fries and they were excellent; very crispy and fresh. My sandwich came on a pretzel bun, which is always a plus. I removed a single star because the food took almost 30 minutes to come out. That's way too long for a place like this, but the waitress was very apologetic and stated it was not common. I'll definitely give it another go or two and update as appropriate.”
“Spectacular harbor view, professional staff, great meal and lovely wines. Our server made us dessert cocktails of his own recipe and they were amazing. Such a treat!”
“service is always great and the food is amazing! The atmosphere is always great we always have a good time when we visit! Talia is always friendly and very attentive to anything we ”
“A friend recommended La Perla Del Mar so we decided to stop when we were nearby. It’s a very casual place. We received menus in Spanish at first but the waitress quickly replaced them with menus in English. We didn’t ask for them, so maybe she saw us struggling. The food was delicious and the portions were large. Our waitress was friendly and attentive. The music was great too. This is a great place to go when you’re not looking for anything fancy but you want authentic Mexican seafood and friendly service. We’ll be back!Parking: We got a parking spot right next to the building but there is more parking available behind the building too.”
Latest Reviews
“Stayed locally downtown Tacoma and decided on pizza late at night. They were open for take out and extremely busy! Pizza was hot, thin crust like we wanted and very good. A bit pricey but friendly staff and good food”
“I don't know if anyone would consider it authentic Mexican food, but it certainly is what I expect when I go out to eat Mexican food. We have been dining there a lot lately, and have had consistently good food and good service. The portions are very large. My wife and I often split the Trio Fajitas, and we get plenty of food and we both really enjoy it. They always keep us going with chips and salsa. The salsa is not that great, but that would be my only complaint.We recently ate at Cactus in Proctor, and felt like our food and service is so much better and much cheaper at El Toro. The portions are much larger and the food is much closer to what I expect when eating at a Mexican restaurant. The experience at Cactus certainly made us appreciate El Toro much more.Well done, El Toro! We look forward to dining there again soon!Vegetarian options: Not sure how many options there are for vegetarians, but my son gets their Cheese Enchiladas and rice and beans and loves it. Huge portion.”
“Went here a few days ago and it was great! Such great options for gluten free!! The burger and fries were so good! I can not wait to try the gluten free chicken strips! What a treat! My celiac daughter loved this place!Hope the dining in is open soon too!”
“Charming and wonderful. WONDERFUL tea-style finger sandwiches, salads, desserts. You order your tea set and accompanying finger foods in advance of coming, at the time you make reservations, because a lot of care goes into it- the level of an art form. Service is fantastic and atmosphere is so cool. The entire place is decorated and built out of salvaged architectural details and the seating is all private. GREAT place to bring visiting family or have a date.”
“Shrimp and grits are amazing! Eggs cooked over medium, no snotty whites. Perfect! Bacon was crisp and biscuits were wonderful! Amber is a great server with a great personality!!!!! Thanks for a terrific Sunday morning breakfast!”
“It’s a nice little neighborhood dive. The bartenders are friendly, and the drinks are reasonably-priced.Parking: There are spaces in front and in back. There are a few street parking spaces.”
“Fresh and delicious! What a delightful find. We shared a plate but instead of just a plate for me, I received a side salad and Basmati rice. The food was served on metal plates and actual silverware. Eco friendly! After paying, we were given 2 pieces of Baklava. Service, delicious food and polite interaction. What could be better? ???”
“I love how little bird deli is, the smell brought me there. I love the way it’s set up and I recommend everyone to check out this location I give this a 5 star reviewThe workers are really nice and food is really good and quick”
“Stop playing. I love this place, and they answer the phone unlike any other mama & pa / corner store. Hands down my favorite place plus they don't over charge you for items.”
“Went in for quick grab to tyde my gf and i over till a late dinner , service was quick and attentive , we snack on a slice while we waited (5 min maybe) for our club !! Which was great plus there selection on snacks and beverages is bar none keep up the great work !!”
“The service at this restaurant is great and everything most of the reviewers here say it is. It is a small restaurant run by a very kind lady. She was very attentive to my needs, even making sure to bring me a glass of water while I waited for my to-go order. The food was cooked quickly and tasted great. The dining area, though small, was clean and full of natural light. I noticed there was a high chair available at the far side of the dining room. I look forward to coming here again!Kid-friendliness: I noticed there was a high chair available in the seating area.Wheelchair accessibility: There is a ramp up to the front door of the restaurant.”
“We ate here a couple days ago and the food was absolutely delicious. I would give it 5 stars if we were able to deviate from what we selected on the menu. They would not let us change out one of the sides, even if we paid a little more. If you want great Thai food this is the place to go.”
“Came from Spanaway to try this restaurant. Glad we did! Cozy atmosphere, like eating at the neighbors house for dinner. Ordered the lamb and beef plate with a side of greek fries.Parking: You can park right in front of the store, there is also parking in the back.”
“Love the bakery I got Black velvet and my friend got red velvet slice. They are so delicious and not too sweet at all. The owner and his son Chris are super lovely and good service. Highly recommended”
“We tried today an appetizer, chick peas and buns. We been going to this restaurant from last few months always had good food, fresh and warm. Definitely try chick peas and buns and makki roti and saag. If you are really into taste and quality, this is the best restaurant to go to.Great food, great people.”
Most Popular Restaurants
“Over all, pretty good! The food came fast and hot. All the meats were great! Even the salad bar was in point. But they missed on a couple things though. My wife's Margarita was pretty bad. She said it tasted like mostly simple syrup. Yuk. Simple syrup doesn't go in a Margarita. Also, as the room cleared out after the dinner rush, the tables on the perimeter lacked attention. We asked for more NY steak. The carver with the NY made a very brief appearance, but didn't even come near our table. Kinda lame. Especially after specifically requesting it.”
“Delicious food! Didn’t know about added percentage on life tax?? Little confusing if this was to be the restaurant’s way to makeup for the higher rates, for wait staff, or additional taxes the State of Wa., added to the businesses.Wheelchair accessibility: Husband has limited walking ability, but with hand rails, he made the stairs, about four of them, up and down. He uses a walker full time. If wheelchair was used, the top deck would be fine, for usage. Full house the night we were there. The staff was fabulous!!”
“I love this place. Great food (the Ruben is my favorite) and a good selection of beer. Service is always friendly and prompt, and prices are appropriate for the quality/atmosphere. The semi-outdoor seating area is really nice, too.”
“This is nothing short of a date night worth your time. The service was amazing from the very beginning to the very end. The wait staff was knowledgeable and helpful in making sure that we had a wonderful night. There was champagne and chocolate covered strawberries waiting on us when we arrived. We had some amazing appetizers with cheese. And then we had a beautiful salad, followed by the most delicious meat and sauces. The creme brulee dessert was incredible!”
“Such a great experience. We also had chicharones wagyu tacos, but we are them too fast to take pics. Can't wait to go back, this is my new favorite Mexican restaurant.”
“We like the ever-changing craft beverage menu and the variety of food items. I've had the Jamaican Rice Bowl twice recently - once with prawns and once with chicken. It was very flavorful both times. My only complaint and it's tiny, is we ordered coffee at the end of the meal and it was lukewarm at best. On a busy Saturday night, I didn't want to bother the server who I'm sure would have replaced it if I'd asked.”
“Quality of food was good, ambience is always a uniquely wonderful, colorful place for us to take guests, and specifically, our server Keri, was fabulous and very accommodating. Our party appreciated her cheerful service. Thank you! ps. The only long-term gripe I've had is that breakfast ends at 11am. It would be nice if breakfast options were available until 1pm or 2pm.”
“Food was good. Waiter was amazing ans vibes was awesome. They have drink and they do mocktails! Pad Thai isn't great but they mango fried rice was awesome. They are open for a couple hours in the afternoon and closed again then open for dinner. Group of 4 or more, make a reservation if possible. We have a group of 8. Will come again for the vegan options they had.”
“Súper good !!! At first I was skeptical because I felt like the theme was the reason why it’s famous and the food might not be as good but I was proved wrong. The service is good and the food is delicious especially the portions! I’ve seen in other establishments how it’s around the same price but the quantity of the food is half of what’s served here. Definitely coming back !”
“The place for bagels in Tacoma! We come to pick up 2 bagel sands each time we visit from Honolulu! Bagels are well made, fillings are generous and flavors are on spot. Only issue? There's always a line so go early on a weekday. Line's part of the charm I guess and the place has tons of personality!Parking: Go early for parking and no line.”
“I love Balcon! It’s my favorite quick bite spot in the neighborhood. I especially love the bean and cheese pupusa - I usually get two with extra slaw. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu tho - so happy this little local business opened up!”
“Finally got a chance to visit Southern Kitchen! The parking lot is pretty tiny and was full, but I was able to find parallel parking on the street outside the restaurant easily. I got the 6th Ave platter so I could try things out. I really liked the Cajun catfish fingers and I would probably skip the chicken and go straight for those or try the brisket next time. They definitely don't make things zesty/spicy, they leave that to you to put hot sauce on, which I am fine with. I loved the big quart jar of strawberry lemonade. I've never been served lemonade topped with whipped cream before and it was surprising when it arrived at the table but I tackled it with glee. It delicious. Drawbacks: the fried chicken, though not too greasy with tasty, crispy breading, was a bit dry and unseasoned tasting on the inside, the corncake arrived at the table too cold to melt butter, and they were out of fried green tomatoes. The space is a bit cramped and although it's all on one level, it might not be the best for a wheelchair user. The space does provide a cozy feeling, though. During my meal many regulars came in to pick up food and were greeted warmly by the servers who knew them by name. I definitely see why this beloved soul food restaurant is a Tacoma institution. I'm sure I will be back. So many more delicious-sounding things to try!”
“This is one of the best local gems. They make incredible sandwiches. They're generally really quick, I usually call in advance and just come in and pick up my sandwiches, which is extremely convenient. They use only quality ingredients, which makes for a very delicious sandwich!”
“I used to order from the downtown Kirkland store and have to say this one wasn't as good. I know they do a ton of business with he hospital and whatever businesses in the area, but it was a bit of a disappointment. Will give them another go when I am down south again.”
“Best Japanese ramen in Tacoma and surrounding areas. The chicken karage has big pieces about not just breading or gristle. And they have swag bags. Love the swag!!”
New Restaurants
“Great new spot in town the spicy pork box was really good and a big portion definitely a two meal dish. The popcorn chicken was also good the garlic soy is legit. If you like kfc give this place a try.”
“The food is amazing, and the service is even better. I have celiac, and the owners did a terrific job communicating and addressing gluten concerns. The menu does not have dedicated GF labels, but they follow protocols to avoid cross contamination and use tamari instead of soy sauce when asked for GF. I have been multiple times and never gotten glutened, will go back again and again.”
“I LOVE Mediterranean food and was so excited to try out Al Bacha in downtown Tacoma! My friends and I visited this Saturday and I ordered a lamb gyro. Let me tell you this was a top tier full flavor gyro. It was a huge portion of lamb, out of this world tziki, crisp lettuce, and all the vegetables. I also appreciated the drink case with every drink variety you can imagine. Casual dining experience, low price, highlyRecommend this location!Parking: Paid street parking, can be difficult to find parking at peak hours. There is a paid lot around the block.”
“Had the South Union roll - VERY tasty and well prepared. Fresh ingredients and quickly served. Friendly service and complimentary tea made this a 5* lunch all the way!”
“If you're wondering where to go for a cool brunch, look no further. We went to Manuscript for Sunday brunch, and I am still thinking about it on Thursday! The staff was quick and polite, and the food was excellent. The place has a cool vibe, the type of place you want to catch up with an old friend over a beverage and some crispy pork belly.....which is amazing because every table looked like they were having a beverage and amazing breakfast!We had a breakfast sandwich, the pork belly hash, and a GIANT Lemon grab Baby (which is just like a Dutch baby only with lemon curd and huckleberry jam). There wasn't a scrap of food left over. Everything was so amazingly tasty that we all left fully and happy.We will definitely be back to try more of their menu. It is a great place to go in Tacoma!”
“Really wonderful place for a date night. The staff was incredibly friendly, the food was amazing, and the ambiance of the restaurant was great. Would definitely come here again. I had the over the moon lasagna and my wife had the scallops. Both were excellent!”