25 Essential Tacoma Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Tacoma.
Fish House Cafe
Washington
Longtime daytime cafe offers fish 'n' chips & other classic comfort eats in a tiny, no-frills venue.
Marzano Italian Restaurant
Washington
Remodeled house with native Italian owner serving specialties like housemade pasta & braised rabbit.
Anthony's At Point Defiance
Washington
Down-to-earth Pacific Northwest-based seafood chain serving a menu of hearty local catches.
Boathouse 19
Tacoma, Washington
Casual spot serving local seafood, burgers & other American eats, with deck overlooking Puget Sound.
Side Piece Kitchen
Tacoma, Washington
Identifies as Latino-owned, Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service.
Duke's Seafood Tacoma
Tacoma, Washington
Local chain serving market-fresh seafood, grass-fed burgers & cocktails in informal surroundings.
Lunar's Pho
Tacoma, Washington
Service options: Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great tea selection. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Matador Tacoma
Tacoma, Washington
Local bar chain serving classic & contemporary Mexican dishes, plus cocktails, in a stylish space.
Harbor Lights
Tacoma, Washington
Northwest seafood dishes in a waterfront locale with outdoor seating overlooking Commencement Bay.
Buddy's Chicken & Waffles
Tacoma, Washington
Service options: Curbside pickup, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch.
BIGFOOT PIZZA & BAR
Tacoma, Washington
Straight-up restaurant offering pizzas & more plus take-out & delivery options in TV-enhanced digs.
The Fish Peddler Restaurant on Foss Waterway
Tacoma, Washington
Lofty seafood joint with a spacious, waterfront patio offering the day's catch, dips & oysters.
Homestead Restaurant & Bakery
Tacoma, Washington
Comfort-driven American fare, from burgers to pot roast, presented in a welcoming converted barn.
Hob Nob Restaurant
Tacoma, Washington
Homestyle eats from breakfast to dinner in a no-frills diner with historic area photos on the walls.
Over The Moon Cafe
Tacoma, Washington
Northwest cuisine is served in a romantic space with brick walls, bold colors & hanging lanterns.
The Honey Baked Ham Company
Tacoma, Washington
Family-owned chain selling ready-to-serve smoked hams, plus turkeys, roasts, side dishes & desserts.
Vien Dong Restaurant
Tacoma, Washington
Cozy, family-run spot plating large portions of Vietnamese classics such as pho, noodles & curries.
The Spar
Tacoma, Washington
Pub grub & live blues in a simple brick-wall dining room housed in a building with a storied past.
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Tacoma, Washington
Family-friendly chain outpost pairs familiar pub fare with an extensive list of house brews.
WildFin American Grill
Tacoma, Washington
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Great dessert.
Brewers Row
Tacoma, Washington
Easygoing stop offering an array of Mexican breakfast-thru-dinner classics plus wine, beer & coffee.
Little India Express
Tacoma, Washington
Unassuming Indian spot in Freighthouse Square with vegan options & combo plates.
El Toro Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
Tacoma, Washington
Local Mexican cantina chain serving classic dishes & cocktails in hacienda-style surroundings.
Hank's Bar & Pizza
Tacoma, Washington
Chill neighborhood bar offering an array of beers, plus sandwiches & other bites in a casual space.
Bento Teriyaki & Sushi
Tacoma, Washington
Buzzy sushi bar housed in a utilitarian building serving rolls & a variety of classic Japanese eats.