Shopping & Dining Guide

Best ofDining anD shopping guiDe

2010

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2010

xx www.showcasemedialive.com

the substanceshopping

shopping guide p7

showcase picks | magnetic appeal p9

showcase picks | unique boutique p13

showcase picks | giving beautifully p17

gift guide p18

dining

asianinfluence p20

seafood p22

steakhouse p24

italian p26

latininfluence p28

family style p30

libations p32

today’s magazine for artful livingSHOWCASEDining & Shopping Guide

robin lucas | publisher

cynthia tanis | editing manager

tessa gilbertson | art director

toni anderson | event manager

jennifer thompson | south sound rep

11222 49th st e, edgewood, wa 98372

[email protected]

253.826.9001 253.799.9189 (fax)

www.showcasemedialive.com

Copyright © 2010 ShowCase Media. All rights reserved.



Sure we are doing some belt tightening-but that won’t keep us from buying new belts and loosening them after a good meal in supporting our favorite establishments. Wherecanyoufindthelatestfashions?What’sanunexpectedgreatplacetofindartisanstationary?Wherecanwegetfabuloussushi?

These are the types of resources you will discover in the 2010 Best of Shopping and Dining Guide—our annual guide from ShowCase Magazine. Inside are listings for hundreds of local retailers and restaurants. In each case, we provide our favorites and articles that give you a a snapshot of what to expect on your outing.

When we began researching this guide, we resolved not to indulge in the pessimism we found so pervasive in the media. Still, we did feel obliged to acknowledge the 800-pound gorilla in the room (yes, the economy, but we don’t mention it outside these parentheses), so we prepared an issue that celebrates the best places to spend your green backs.

Of course, we Americans have a propensity to overspend, but it’s worth noting that spending our dollars at brick and mortar retailers and restaurants has a positive personal impact. Thousands of our neighbors are employed by national restaurants, malls and bigger retailers for example. While thousands more own and operate boutiques, stores, restaurants and cafés where our neighbors work. Each of these businesses pay taxes and many take their commitment to community a step further by contributing to fundraisers and art events. Whether you’re a culinary connoisseur, novice foodie or an avid shopper. Please join us in supporting these businesses, and our community, in the important work they do. ROBIN LUCAS

Best ofSHOPPING

5www.showcasemedialive.com

Located parallel to I-5 on the west side between 38th Street and 48th Street in Tacoma, Washington. Shopping Line® 253.475.4565.

35901 TAC AMEX ad 1/27/10 11:36 AM Page 1



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TacomaAnnette B. BoutiqueWomen’s Clothing Boutique2711 6th Ave253.761.0984annetteb.com

Art Process Studio & GalleryHand Crafted Jewelry4712 Brookdale Rd East253.307.9680artprocessstudio.com

Calla LilyHome Decor7 Tacoma Ave North253.627.5520callalilydesigners.com

EnvyWomen’s Clothing Boutique2614 North Proctor253.761.5531

Fulcrum GalleryArt Gallery1308 Martin Luther King Jr Way253.250.0520fulcrumtacoma.com

Julia Ellen ClothiersWomen’s Clothing Boutique2602 North Proctor253.761.1144

Linda Danforth DesignsUnique Jewelry Designs1901 South Jefferson253.765.5544lindadanforthdesigns.com

Greenbelts: New American DesignLeather Belts Refashioned253.297.5560greenbelts.etsy.com

Relax the BackBack Pain Relief Products & Solutions 5015 Tacoma Mall Blvd253.475.2520relaxtheback.com

Seldens FurnitureFine Furnishings & Home Decor1802 62nd Ave East253.922.5700seldens.com

Tacoma MallClothing, Jewelry, Dining4502 South Steel St253.475.4565simon.com

Urban ExchangeVintage Clothing1934PacificAve.253.572.2280hipsterswanted.com

Shopping Guide

continued on page 11



presented by

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Kenny Rogers with the Tacoma

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Willie Nelsonand Family

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Chris Botti and

Natalie Cole Sept. 17

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Kid RockSept. 26

Be Beautiful Creative clothing, shoes and accessoriesfor the inspired woman. FlaxEileen FisherURUNomadic TradersDanskoSofftFidji shoes (handmade in Portugal) Belleza Ropa, a fabulous new shopping experience in historic downtown Olympia. Belleza Ropa101 Capitol Way N. | Olympia, WA 98501360.352.ROPA | [email protected]

Start with Modern European kitchen essentials. Blend

sophisticated designs for home entertaining. Finish with

conscious pricing.

121 state ave ne downtown olympia360.539.6175

www.einmaleinshaus.com

7 Tacoma Ave N, Tacoma

253.627.5520www.callalilydesigners.com

CALLA LILY DESIGNS

Lifestyle BoutiqueUnique Home Accessories

and Gifts

magnetic appealtammy robacker



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Susan Fahsel calls herself an artist and a “creative queen.” She claims her creativity even keeps her up at night. Because that’s when the ideas come.

In fact, one of her middle-of-the-night jewelry creations began withfishing line,ametalwasher,andamagnet.Thatroughinspiration for a necklace, cobbled together with abandoned stuff in a junk drawer and a little elbow grease, has evolved into her new business, Magnabilities.

Identifying as an artist as early as she can remember, Fahsel grew up back East in Pennsylvania. There she finishedhigh school, attended art school, and worked as a point of purchase designer in her early 20s. After a big move across the States to Portland, Oregon, Susan continued her arts career and in 1994, she started up Susan’s Signature—a graphic freelance business. By 1996, Susan moved to Seattle and used her entrepreneurial spirit and art skills to hand draw advertisement chalkboards for promoting beverage brands like Absolut and Bacardi.

“Absolut Vodka hired me to do over 100 chalkboards by hand, and then the signs evolved into interchangeable graphics by the use of magnets. I thought, if I can do this with my graphics, what else can interchange? Quickly my graphics shrank tocoin-sized magnetic designs and Magnabilities was born!”

Now, running the business from her office in Lake Tapps,Magnabilities is a trademarked magnetic jewelry system. With a patent pending and an addictive online shopping presence at www.magnabilities.com, customers can create their own Magnabilities looks in three easy steps. After selecting a necklace length, shoppers can browse numerous magnetic design inserts then they choose their favorites to add to the pendant of their choice. The colors, styles and selections for creating just one necklace can become an easy and affordable way to own an entire fashionable jewelry collection.

“By changing the designs in and out, and being the artist and creator of your very own necklace, people can create a different look or feel with their jewelry that is unique entirely to them. Like changing shoes to match an outfit, you canchange your design insert throughout the day depending on theevent,outfit,ormood,”saidFahsel.

“Because of my team, this has been a new, fresh, and fun company that will continue to grow with more items in our line that will be released in the coming months. With this company, we will never get bored and neither will our customers.”

web: magnabilities.com

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Experience MoreThe South Sound’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

Featuring over 125 stores, 9 restaurants, fast- casual dining and Century Theatres Olympia.

Ann Taylor LOFT

Chico’s

Coldwater Creek

Eddie Bauer

Emerald City Smoothie

i.talia Pizzeria

Lane Bryant

Massage Envy

Talbots

Located just off I-5 and 101 North in Olympia360.754.8017www.westfield.com

Bed Bath & Beyond Best Buy Borders JCPenney Macy*s


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Courtyard AntiquesAntiques & Bistro705 4th Ave East360.352.3864

Einmaleins Kitchen StoreModern European Products121 State Ave NE360.539.6175olympia.einmaleinshaus.com

Hot ToddyWomen’s Vintage “Looking” Clothing410 Capitol Way South360.753.0868hottoddyolympia.com

Lily’s What to Where BoutiqueWomen’s Clothing Boutique202 4th Ave West360.943.7004

PopinjayGifts & Unique Accessories414 Capitol Way South360.352.9841

Scarlet EmpressArtisan Stationary & Scrapbooking109 5th Ave SE360.570.8800scarlet-empress.com

Westfield Capital Shopping Center Over 100 Stores, Restaurants & Cinema625 Black Lake Blvd360.754.8017 westfield.com/capital

Shopping Guidecontinued from page 7

PuyallupChicks Golf, too!Ladies Golf Apparel114 West Meeker253.845.0554chicksgolf2.com

Johnson JewelersFine Jewelery103 South Meridian 253.848.1332johnson-jewelers.com

South Hill Mall120 Stores, Restaurants & Cinema3500 South Meridian253.840.2828southhillmall.com

Victoria Sells Antiques Well, it’s all in the name!125 South Meridian 253.445.8330cochrans.com/victoriasells

OlympiaArchibald SistersFragrance & Personal Care Essentials 406 Capitol Way South800.943.2707archibaldsisters.com

Belleza RopaWomen’s Clothing Boutique101 Capitol Way North360.352.ROPA

continued on page 15

Downtown window shopping in the brisk morning air, searching for the perfect outfit to catch your eye... Themoment your quest is complete and the outfit is foundrenders your search worth each step taken or crowd encountered. Hours of foraging are over with the latest and greatest local venue, Belleza Ropa, ideal for all of your shopping desires. Owned by Jennine Debray, the boutique is a new favorite to South Sound Belleza Ropa is a stylish women’s boutique that offers individualistic, comfortable, quality, and affordable lines of clothing emphasizing the beauty, diversity, and fashion of every woman. This bright and funky boutique makesastatement,definingtoday’strendswithoriginalandcaptivating yet relaxed styles for all women. Downtown on the corner of Capitol and 4th in Olympia, this spot serves as the proper area for Jennine’s newest shop.

Designs at Belleza Ropa are fitting for every lifestyle andinspiration a woman has, whether she is active, casual, bold, or natural. Belleza Ropa brings to the Northwest a variety of fashion including jewelry by local artisans, Not your Daughter’s Jeans, Dansko shoes and travel bags.

Affording a noticeably comfortable environment, Belleza Ropa (Spanish for beautiful clothes) represents the respectable, feminine, yet novel era of contemporary taste and truly lives up to its name. Debray’s boutique has options that accent the beauty of a shoppers natural allure, taking into consideration busy social schedules and providing wardrobesfittingtoalloccasions.

Stop by Belleza Ropa and liven up your closet at one of themost promising fashion hot-spots Olympia has to offer!

tel: 360.352.ROPAaddress: 101 Capital Way North, Olympia

unique boutiquekaitlyn barrie



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705 4th Avenue EastOlympia, WA 98506-3929

360-352-3864

With 10,000 square feet showcasing over 70 dealers who selectively and creatively display visually pleasing presentations of exquisite antique and vintage treasues, shop for unique home decor, gifts and more with price tags that are easy on the pocketbook. Be sure to stop in the Bistro for scrumptious home made items served for breakfast, lunch or a coff ee break.

and Bistro

Auto | Home | Business | Life

Call for a quote today at 360-352-2329, or visit www.mygr8agency.com1115 Black Lake Blvd SW, Ste B | Olympia, WA 98502

The cornerstones of The Morales Agency philosophy are Partnering, Education, Service and Respect.

Families change, assets grow, teens drive, and retirement comes. Communication is vital to learn about changing needs. Frequent service calls are customary allowing our team to educate clients about discounts and coverage adjustments. The Morales team respects the value of long term client partnerships and is there when your life changes.

When was the last time your insurance agent called you? Insurance is complicated, but service is simple when you partner with The Morales Agency.

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A boutique for the unique woman.

All ages, all sizes, plus, too!

202 4th Ave. W. Downtown Olympia (360) 943-7004Open 7 days a week

everyday ergonomicsFind your around the clock solutions for back pain.

253.475.2520 | 5015 Tacoma Mall Blvd | Tacoma, Wa 98409

www.relaxtheback.com

Zutano and Bunnies by the Bay for wee ones

Vera Bradley, Dreamsacks, Thymes for grown ups

Fine chocolates for all!

414 S. Capitol Way | Downtown Olympia360-352-9841

[email protected]

Imaginative gifts and accessories for your home, your body and your life.....

THE




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Shopping Guidecontinued from page 11

AuburnAuburn Wine & Caviar CompanyWines, Champagne, Beer & Caviar 2402 A St SE 253.887.8530 auburnwineandcaviar.com

SupermallRetail Stores & Restaurants1101 Supermall Way800.SAY.VALUsupermall.com

Federal WayFederal Way Custom Jewelers Custom Jewelry 1810 South 320th St253.839.7389 federalwaycustomjewelers.com

SumnerA Picket FenceHome Decor, Gifts & Jewelry1006 Main St253.863.6048apicketfence.com

Old Cannery Furniture StoreHome Furnishings13608 Valley Ave East253.863.0422oldcanneryfurniture.com

Gig HarborEmilie Gallery & BoutiqueArt & Accessories3133 Harborview Dr253.858.7736

Hush Baby Gig HarborUpscale Maternity & Children’s Boutique 4729 Point Fosdick Drive NW 253.858.4874

Harbor GalleryArt & Gift Items3155 Harborview Dr253.851.8626harborviewsharborgallery.com

KentKent StationRetail Stores, Restaurants & Cinemas417 Ramsay Way253.856.2301 kentstation.com

EarthworksCustom Designed Jewelry235 First Ave South253.859.4112earthworksgem.com

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giving beautifully

My shopping list writes itself straight from the heart. I’m giving love. I’m giving beautiful. I’m giving art. I’m giving bellaballs to the people I care about. Because giving is a bella thing.

In the past year, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet renowned local glass artist, Diane Hansen, and illustrious interior designer, Lesli Jacobs-McHugh. These two Northwest women launched Bellaballs. The Tacoma based shop contains a distinctive collection of affordable, hand-blown glass art. Diane and Lesli combined their passion for life, beauty, and art to create a new business where their mission truly is all about giving ‘beautiful.’

As they opened their personal stories to me, I discovered both women met during tumultuous times in their lives. Each had survived the loss of a loved one to cancer and had befriended one another while trying to rebuild their worlds and move forwardwithanewlydefinedsenseofpurpose focusedongiving. It was through that connection and sharing of those difficult experiences that a strong friendship blossomedbetween them.

For Diane and Lesli, a positive, life-changing moment occurred when they realized each shared a mutual love of Japanese fishingfloats.Thattheglassfloathumblybeginsbyholdingup

fishingnets,breaksfreewhenstormshit, istossedabout inrough seas, then washes ashore on beaches across the world to be discovered as a treasure was a powerful symbol of courage and transformation. The symbol was so profound, it inspired Diane and Lesli to start their company, bellaballs.

“We decided to take the simple object with its powerful history and elevate it to a level of great importance. We created art that is not only beautiful in its own right, but bellas serve to remind both the giver and the receiver that living beautifully is a choice. Through weathering the storms of life, we each become more beautiful,” said Hansen.

Hand-blown bellaballs are available in 77 different colors. From lovely pastel color palettes to rich, tapestry-toned selections, each unique bella is embossed with a signature sterling silver bella adornment and is accompanied by an individually numbered authenticity card to ensure your original, one-of-a-kind bella.

In their efforts to be all inclusive when ‘giving beautiful,’ both women feel everybody should have the chance to own art. So,theyoffertheirhand-craftedfloatsatanencouragingpricepoint—nomorethan$40.“Glassfloatscomefromanancienttradition,” said Hansen. “They’re exotic. They look fragile, but they’re stronger than they look. We’re excited to offer something this special for such a reasonable price.”

Since the dream of bellaballs was born from a spirit of giving, giving back to the community is also a central part of who Lesli and Diane are. Each year, they choose one of their signature designs as an annual Charity Ball. The torn and tattered Cause Ribbon emblem designed for this year’s Charity Ball is in honor of cancer survivors.

web: bellaballs.comtel: 253.627.0183 address: 747 South Fawcett Ave, Tacoma

tammy robacker

photos by terry richel



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18 www.showcasemedialive.com

shopping

TacomabellaballsHand Crafted Japanese Floats747 South Fawcett Ave253.627.0183bellaballs.com

Relax the BackBack Pain Relief Products & Solutions 5015 Tacoma Mall Blvd253.475.2520relaxtheback.com

Tacoma MallClothing, Jewelry, Dining4502 South Steel St253.475.4565simon.com

Tacoma Art StopHand Crafted Art, Jewelry & Clothing940 Broadway 253.272.3377 artstoptacoma.com

OlympiaCompass RoseGifts & Décor416 Capitol Way South360.236.0788compassroseolympia.com

Courtyard AntiquesAntiques & Bistro705 4th Ave East360.352.3864

DreesHome Décor & Gifts—Publisher’s Favorite524 Washington St SE360. 357.7177

Einmaleins Kitchen StoreModern European Products121 State Ave NE360.539.6175olympia.einmaleinshaus.com

Ginger StreetHome Décor Gifts509 Capitol Way South 360.943.1545gingerstreetstore.com

PopinjayJewelry, Chocolate Truffles, Furniture & Lotions414 Capitol Way South 360.352.9841

Westfield Capital Shopping Center Over 100 Stores, Restaurants & Cinema 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.754.8017 westfield.com/capital

PuyallupSouth Hill Mall120 Stores, Restaurants & Cinema3500 South Meridian253.840.2828southhillmall.com

SumnerA Picket FenceHome Decor, Gifts & Jewelry1006 Main St253.863.6048apicketfence.com

Give the Gift of Experience!Lakewood Playhouselakewoodplayhouse.org

Gift Guide

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Nomatterwhatyourdiningpleasure is,youwillsurelyfindwhatyourpalettedesires in the “2010 Best of Dining Guide”. From rustic pubs and casual family dining to the most elegant settings and extravagant fare, we “showcase” our favorites and recommendations. Take in a new restaurant, taste an old favorite or learn about a hidden spot that is a “best kept secret”. We acknowledge the best to help you plan your culinary adventures.

Best ofDINING



TacomaGangala ThaiThai1129 Broadway253.272.3393gangalathai.com

Indochine Asian Dining LoungeThaiShowCase Favorite: Dancing Buddha1924PacificAve253.272.8200indochinedowntown.com

TWOKOI Japanese CuisineSushi/Japanese1552 Commerce St253. 274.8999twokoi.com

OlympiaFujiyamaJapanese Hibachi2930 Capitol Mall Drive360.352.9888fujiyamaolympia.com

Lemon GrassThai212 4th Ave W360.705.1832

Mekong RestaurantThai, Vietnamese125 Columbia St NW360.352.9620

Bonney LakeSushi TownSushi20649 Hwy 410 East253.891.2046sushitownbonneylake.com

Federal WayIndochine Seafood & Satay BarThai31406PacificHwySouth253.529.4214indochinefederalway.com

Tokyo Japanese Steak HouseIt’s all in the name1404 South 320th St253.839.4352

PuyallupAyothayaThai4102 South Meridian253.841.7599hellothaifood.com

Chili ThaiThai3712 9th Ave253. 864.7005chilithai.com

House of KeeChinese15305 East Meridian253.848.4899

LakewoodThong ThaiEarthy, Friendly Thai12836PacificHwySW253.581.1115

Yen ChingChinese8765 South Tacoma Way253.444.6638

Asian Influence



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Sushi for the Senses in Downtown Tacoma

I would no more invite just anyone to enjoy sushi with me than I would visit just any sushi place. That sounds a bit vain, I know, but I love the details of Japanese cuisine: The prelude in a handle-less cup of genmaicha, the chopsticks tucked crisply into the napkin, the snap of the sticks separating, the little mound of wasabi, mixing my personal ratio of wasabi to soy sauce... I love this ritual. When my dinner companion issimilarlytakenwithsuchfinepoints,theserverpresentingthe food is in tune with the details, and the ambience is thoughtfully composed, I feel as though I’m living inside my own perfect little haiku.

TWOKOI—TWOKOI Japanese Cuisine, to be exact—has takenmetothatplaceonanumberofoccasionssinceitfirstopened in 2006. One recent frigid evening, my friend Rebecca and I shrugged off our coats at the bar, took our seats, and wereimmediatelyasked,“Wouldyoulikeacupofhottea?”Of course that was exactly how to begin.

I’m far from being an expert on Japanese cuisine, but happily, TWOKOI diners don’t have to know everything, and questions aremetwith gracious smiles and definitiveanswers. So we asked, Rebecca and I, about the sake. We were looking for something to take the chill out of our bones, “the Mondays” off our minds, and to set the tone for the meal we were both anticipating.

And as we talked, we came to this conclusion: TWOKOI may just be the perfect place for two friends to meet and rejuvenate. There is something about the atmosphere here that invites lingering conversation and contemplation of the food, rather than mere enjoyment of the meal. TWOKOI is serene with its creamy Japanese lanterns, dark wooden surfaces, up-lighting, and strategically placed bamboo, yet

contemporary and fun with a digitized aquarium near the sushi bar and its view over the “minimalist” Tollefson Plaza to Tacoma Art Museum and beyond.

After comforting bowls of miso soup, we realized that we’d both been craving sushi for some time and were in the mood for simple, clean, honest, raw fish.Neither of us is one tosplurge on a big dinner, so we agreed on three choices from the sushi menu—hamachi, maguro, and sake (yellow tail, tuna, and salmon: two pieces each)—and when our server presented them, we both actually sighed.

We also had ordered a dish to share called the TWOKOI Tower.Whenitcametoourtable,thewordIfinallyfoundtodescribe it was “confection.” Spicy tuna and salmon alternate with layers of rice in a tall cylinder, which is topped with tiny crisp rice noodles, set atop drizzles of richly savory and sweet sauces, and sprinkled with three different kinds of tobiko (flyingfishroe).

After enjoying mango and strawberry mochi ice cream balls split into petal-like fours and adorned with reasonable poufs of whipped cream, we were happy, full, relaxed, and somehow transformed by what we both agreed was more a dining experience for the senses than simply a meal. KRISTY GLEDHILL

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twokoi1552 Commerce St, Tacoma

253.274.8999twokoi.com



TacomaAnthony’s5912 North Waterfront Drive253.752.9700anthonys.com

CI Shenanigan’s3017 Ruston Way 253.752.8811 cishenanigans.com Dukes Chowder House3327 Ruston Way 253.752.5444 dukeschowderhouse.com Harbor Lights2761 Ruston Way253.752.8600harbor-lights.com

Johnny’s Dock1900 East D St253.627.3186johnnys-dock.com

Lobster Shop at Dash Point6912 Soundview Drive NE253.927.1513lobstershop.com

Lobster Shop at Ruston4015 Ruston Way253.617.1907lobstershop.com

Pacific Grill1502PacificAve253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com Stanley & Seaforts115 East 34th St253.473.7300stanleyandseaforts.com

Steamers8802 6th Ave253.565.4532 steamersseafoodcafe.com Olympia Anthony’s Homeport704 Columbia St NW 360.754.7444 anthonys.com Budd Bay Café 525 Columbia St NW 360.357.6963 buddbaycafe.com Dockside Bistro 501 Columbia St NW 360.956.1928 docksidebistro.com

Gardners Seafood & Pasta111 Thurston Ave. NW360.786.8466gardnersrestaurant.com

Oyster House 320 4th Ave West 360.753.7000

Federal WayCliff House6300 Marine View Dr253.927.0400cliffhouserestaurant.com McGrath’s Fish House 1911 South 320th St 253.839.5000 mcgrathsfishhouse.com TumwaterFalls Terrace Restaurant106 Deschutes Way SW360.943.7830fallsterrace.com

Seafood

The oldest seafood restaurant in Washington, The Oyster House, overlooks Olympia’s Percival Landing and Budd Inlet. It’s a casual family eatery where diners can watch televised athletic events and view sports memorabilia displayed in the lobby. Dark wood and rich green colors make the dining room warm and welcoming.

We began with angels on horseback—oysters wrapped in bacon,skeweredandthenbroiled.Astheshellfishcook,theycurl, resembling angel wings. The smoky cured pork, sweet mollusks, and zesty cocktail sauce are a satisfying starter. Others include Cognac oysters, crab cocktail, nachos and potato skins.

The house dressing is fresh ginger vinaigrette. Mixed greens comealivewithflavorwhencombinedwiththespicinessofthe pungent root.

Pacific oysters are lightly dusted with flour and pan-friedin butter. The delicate shellfish are accompanied by tangycocktail sauce, a lemon wedge, and choice of baked potato, rice, vegetables or fries. The grilled halibut sandwich is well-prepared,theflatfishfirmandfresh.TheOysterHousebuyslocal seafood whenever possible; it’s purchased fresh seven days a week. Only oysters from Oyster Bay, procured from Olympia Oyster Company, are served here.

Other seafood entrees include crab and gorgonzola tortellini, steamers, blackened salmon and coconut prawns. The extensive menu is not limited to seafood, however. Also available are burgers, sandwiches, steaks and pasta. Try the

bacon wrapped filet mignon, teriyaki chicken sandwich orbaby back ribs. Salad entrées range from cobb to seafood louie to wonton chicken.

A variety of tempting options are presented on the dessert tray, including mud pie, M&M fudge brownies, bread pudding with caramel sauce, cheesecake and chocolate cake. Fudgy French silk pie is decadent with a double crust—dense brownie on sugar cookie; a tunnel of caramel is hidden within thefilling. Multi-layeredbananapoppy seedcake is slightlylemonyandtheflavorsareenhancedbybuttercream.

Appropriately, the dining establishment began as an oyster culling house owned by the Olympia Oyster Company. As far back as 1859, the company shipped the delicacies to San Francisco where diners would pay $20 per plate. Eventually, the original owners started a small seafood bar in the southeast corner where oyster cocktails were served.

In the 1940s, the eatery began to evolve into a larger operation. Two or three additions were completed before it was purchased and completely remodeled by the current owner, Rich Barrett, in 1996. The establishment is still patronized by loyal elderly diners who reminisce about the restaurant’s evolution. With public docking available, it’s also a popular place with boaters and families.

There’s a reason The Oyster House is the oldest seafood restaurant in Washington. Fresh, generously portioned food and relaxed, casual dining with a view keep customers coming back. JANAE COLOMBINI

the oyster house320 4th Ave, Olympia

360.753.7000



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TacomaAsado Traditional Argentine Roast House2810 6th Ave 253.770.7770 asadotacoma.com El Gaucho 2119PacificAve253.272.1510 elgaucho.com Good Fella’s 10117 South Tacoma Way 253.396.0500 goodfellas-steakhouse.com Pacific Grill 1502PacificAve253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com OlympiaAnthony’s Hearthfire Grill 1675 Marine Dr NE 360.705.3473 anthonys.com Cascadia Grill 200 West 4th Ave 360.628.8731 cascadiagrill.com Falls Terrace 106 Deschutes Way SW 360.943.7830 fallsterrace.com

PuyallupBlack Angus203 35th Ave SE253.841.1900blackangus.com

Federal WayBilly McHale’s1800 South 320th St253.839.4200billymchalesfw.com

LakewoodSteakhouse Steaks10109 South Tacoma Way253.267.5187 LongviewMasthead Restaurant 1210 Ocean Beach Hwy 360.577.7972

Steakhouse

pacific grill1502PacificAve,Tacoma

253.627.3535pacificgrilltacoma.com

When dining out, striking a balance between food, atmosphere, service and dining companions is of paramount importance. If fabulous service, well-crafted cuisine and an intimate atmospherearewhatyouseek, thestaffatPacificGrillwilltake care of you.

Whet your appetite with a crisp and playful Prosecco along withthefreshandfancifulPacificaCocktail.Thisisarefreshingseafood cocktail where the traditional cocktail sauce is replaced with a citrusy gazpacho-like accompaniment. If red wine is more to your liking, try a succulent Oregon Pinot Noir paired with the Blue Cheese ‘Tater Tots’. These crisp, warm and cheesy ‘Oregonzola’ potato bites are proof that love can existonaplate.Youwillfindthemlistedonthemenuasaside, but your server will happily bring them to you as an appetizer. Both dishes are satisfying enough to share among your friends, although, you may not want to do so!

The dinner selection is divine. You will have no trouble finding entrees to satisfy your inner pescatarian, carnivore,vegetarian, or pastafarian. Classic salads and tempting sides await the opportunity to amplify the meal, but the entrees can easily stand on their own. Slip your knife into a buttery flat iron steak cooked to medium-rare perfection. Feelingsaucy? How about theNorthwest Cioppino? Dungeness &

Jonahcrabminglewithashellfishmedley inafinger-licking,bread dipping broth of white wine and San Marzano tomato. A generous crostini topped with aioli soaks up the savory jus while you crack open crab legs.

A dessert menu is often something I will pass up following a delightfullysatisfyingmeal;however,PacificGrill’sthoughtfulmenu includes a dazzling (yet not overwhelming) array of goodies such as port and whiskey which prove enough to lower any full belly’s defenses. A highlight is the Lagavulin Single Malt Scotch—incredibly peaty, with the smoky intensity of a campfire. PastryChef ErinPowell contributes a lovelyvariety of sweet treats to round out the meal such as a rich Sticky Toffee Bread Pudding that simply oozes with warmth and comfort. Her Rustic Apple Tart takes on a delightful twist with salted caramel ice cream, and she succeeds in elevating the ubiquitous crème brûlée with star anise, topped with the ideal proportion of spoon-tapping burnt sugar crust. I urge you not to skip dessert.

In addition to its dinner menu, Pacific Grill offers substantial lunch, bar and happy hour menus. With all of the tantalizing menu items, I know I will be back. I will be bringing friends to share in what I trust will be many bountiful and memorable meals. LIBBY CLOW

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TacomaEuropa Bistro Italian Influence2515 North Proctor 253.761.5660 europabistro.com Joeseppi’s 2207 North Pearl St 253.761.5555 joeseppis.com Old Spaghetti Factory Family Friendly1735 Jefferson Ave 253.383.2214 osf.com Primo Grill Fresh Italian 601 South Pine St 253.383.7000 primogrilltacoma.com

OlympiaBasilico Italian Ristorante 507 Capitol Way South 360.570.8777 ristorantebasilico.com Mercato Italian influence 111 Market St 360.528.3663 ramblinrestaurants.com Pelligrinos 205 Cleveland Ave SE 360.709.9020 pelligrinositaliankitchen.com SumnerAversano’s 6015 Parker Rd East 253.863.3618 aversanos.com

Sorci’s Italian Eatery & Deli 1012 Ryan Ave 253.891.8400 sorcisitaliancafe.com PuyallupMama Stortini Italian Restaurant & Bar ShowCase Favorite: Lamb Chops 3207 East Main Ave 253.845.7569 mamastortinis.com Toscanos Fine Dining Italian 29th St NE #C 253.864.8600 toscanos.com Trackside Pizza Pizza 201 North Meridian 253.845.7437 pizzatrackside.com

Federal Way Leonardi’s Pizza 106 SW Campus Dr 253.838.7357 Verrazano’s Fine Italian 28835PacificHwySouth253.946.4122 verrazanos.com

KentMama Stortini Italian Restaurant and Bar ShowCase Favorite: Lamb Chops 240 West Kent Station St 253.854.5050 mamastortinis.com

Italian

mama stortini’s240 West Kent Station St, Kent

253.854.5050mamastortinis.com

Not unlike bistros and cafés in France and Italy, Mama Stortini’s is the community gathering place where food is savored and friends mark the spontaneous moments in their lives.

The welcoming scents of minestrone, Bolognese sauce and pizza waft from the kitchen into the dining area. The atmosphere is casual. Framed artwork adorns each booth; adding interest are antique candlesticks, lamps, and plants placed on low partitions.

Stortini’s resides in the space formerly occupied by Zephyr Bar & Grill at Kent Station. The remodeled eatery feels open yet intimate. A bank of windows adds light; cozy booths are suitable for a romantic dinner; larger booths and tables can accommodate a family or group of friends. Seating is also available in the bar or outdoor patio.

The wide-ranging menu is suitable for a variety of situations and occasions, from grazing to special occasions. The menu has many choices and a range of prices to appeal to a wide variety of expectations, needs and occasions. Flavors are simple, bold and delicious. Diners can be assured of high quality and creativity. Portions are attractively presented and generous.

Starters include smoked mozzarella and tomato bruschetta, crispy calamari, and coconut crusted black tiger prawns. Maytag blue cheese salad, grilled steak salad, and chicken and pear salad with maple vinaigrette are a few of the many salad offerings.

Pizzas are baked in a brick oven. Brushing the crusts with garlic olive oil and lightly grilling them imparts a light smoky character and crisp tender texture. Italian sausage from Verone’s in Tacoma is featured for a unique and authentic Italianflavor.

Chicken parmesan is finished with mozzarella and zestymarinara, accompanied by a side of spaghetti. Also available arevealMarsala,scallopspicattaandpetitegrilledfiletmignon.Stortini’susesonlycertifiedNebraskabeef,choicegradeandagedfortwenty-eightdaysfortendernessandfullflavor.Vealis purchased from America’s finest veal producer, ProvimiFoods in Wisconsin.

Among the pasta choices are Pacific shellfish fettuccine,baked chicken cannelloni, and traditional baked lasagna. Mama Stortini’s imports La Bella’s all-semolina pasta; the sauces are made in-house. Many entrees are available in both lunch and dinner sized portions; the restaurant also offers a children’s menu. Another option is the family feast; as the name implies, an abundance of food is served family style.

Luciano Pavarotti said, “One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.” The attentive service, fine fare, and casual ambience atMama Stortini’sensure that attention is well spent. JANAE COLOMBINI



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TacomaAnahuac Mexican9002PacificAve253.538.7195

Asado Cusina ArgentinaTraditional Argentine Roast House2810 6th Ave253.272.7770asadotacoma.com

Chevys Fresh Mex3702 South Fife St253.472.5800chevys.com

El Toro Mexican5716 North 26th St253.759.7889eltorofamily.com The Funky Iguana2941 South 38th St253.474.7879

Matador721PacificAve253.627.7100matadorrestaurants.com Olympia El Sarape4043 Martin Way East360.459.5525elsarape.net Peppers Mexican Restaurant114 Cherry St NE360.943.1111 La Taqueria534 Capitol Way South360.357.5028

PuyallupPuerto Vallarta215 15th St East 253.848.8550puertovallartarestaurants.com Mis Tes Amigos 17530 Meridian East253.864.8250 Federal WayChipotle Mexican Grill 31827PacificHwySouth253.945.8287chipotle.com LaceyMayan Mexican4520PacificAveSE360.491.8244mayanmexican.com

KentMexico Lindo203 4th Ave South253.854.5320

Latin Influence

Located in Sumner at the beautiful

Windmill Gardens

LUNCH & DINNER Wed - Fri 11am - 8pm

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER Sat & Sun 8:30am - 4pm

HAPPY HOUR Wed - Sun 3 - 5pm

16009-A 60th Street E | 253.826.7897 | windmillbistro.com

Puyallup

3207 East Main Avenue

Tel: 253.845.7569

mamastortinis.com

Kent Station

240 W Kent Station St

Tel 253.854.5050

mamastortinis.com

Exclusive Caterer & Event Coordinator at the beautiful Windmill Gardens in Sumner

Tel: 253.604.0600 | Fax: 253.604.0601

mamastortinis.com

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Happy Hour

Lunch | Dinner | Happy Hour

Full Service On & Off-Site CateringWeddings | Special Occasions | Business Meetings | Deliveries


TacomaHarmon 1938PacificAve253.383.2739 harmonbrewingco.com Hub 203 Tacoma Ave 253.683.4606 hub.harmonbrewingco.com

Melting Pot2121PacificAve253.535.3939meltingpot.com

Rock Wood Fired Pizza 1920 Jefferson Ave 253.272.1221 therockwfp.com

OlympiaApollo Pizza and Pasta Pizza & Pasta 2010 Harrison Ave NW 360.754.7444

Ramblin’ Jacks520 East 4th Ave360.754.8909ramblinrestaurants.com

Tugboat Annies2100 Oyster Bay Rd NW360.943.1850tugboatannies.com

PuyallupAuntee B’s 213 North Meridian 253.435.8833 Comfort Food 210 West Pioneer 253.770.6147 comfortfoodcafe.org Trackside Pizza 201 North Meridian 253.845.7437 pizzatrackside.com SumnerBerryland Café 1101 East Main St 253.863.4567

Farrelli’s 15007 Main Street 253.447.2227 farrellispizza.com Windmill Bistro Café & Restaurant 16009-A 60th Street East253.826.7897 windmillbistro.com

Family Favorites

Formore than threedecades,TheMeltingPothasdefinedthe fondue niche across the American dining scene. A fun and interactive dining experience, fondue is a communal dish shared at the table in a pot over a small burner. To create The Melting Pot’s spinach artichoke appetizer the server mixes two cheeses—pungent Italian Fontina with, as its name suggests, buttery Butterkase—with spinach, tender artichoke heart petals, and ample garlic, sweetened by the cooking process. Provided for dipping are three varieties of bread, tortilla chips, tart Granny Smith apples, and crispy carrots and celery. Other appetizer options include Fiesta Cheese Fondue, made with jalapeno peppers and salsa; the traditional Cheddar Cheese Fondue is also available. The Melting Pot House Salad is composed of crisp greens, cheddar cheese, hard-boiled eggs, mild scallions, fresh tomatoes and crunchy croutons. The house dressing is sweet and tangy, reminiscent of honey mustard.

Main courses may be simmered in a variety of preparations. CoqauVinisflavoredwithfreshherbs,mushrooms,garlicandburgundy wine, while Fondue court bouillon is a homemade seasoned vegetable broth. Recommended by our server was Mojo Fondue, aCaribbean-seasonedbouillon flavoredwithgarlic, tangy citrus and cilantro.

TheSignatureselectioncombinesfiletmignon,shrimp,teriyaki-marinated sirloin, chicken breast and cedar plank salmon. The

FrenchQuarterismadeupoffiletmignon,chickenbreast,andshrimp, all seasoned with spicy Cajun spices and partnered withAndouille sausage.Or, try theLandandSeaorPacificRim entrees.

Entrees are accompanied by potatoes and mushrooms. Among the several condiments presented are aromatic and tangy yogurt curry dip, sweet, gingery plum sauce, teriyaki, parsley and chive seasoned green goddess spread, and Gorgonzola and Port sauce. Chocolate S’mores fondue is creamy milk chocolate topped with marshmallowcream,flambéed,andgarnishedwithcrushedgraham crackers. For dipping are sweet ripe strawberries, dense pound cake, creamy cheese cake, brownies, bananas, and marshmallows. Other sweet conclusions are Yin and Yang, a half dark chocolate and half white chocolate fondue and flaming turtle, a decadentmilk chocolate, caramel andchoppedpecanblend,flambéedtableside. At The Melting Pot, fondue truly becomes a memorable four-course dining experience where patrons can dip into something different - and discover all the ingredients for a unique dining experience including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines and signaturefondue dinners. MARY MORGAN

the melting pot2121PacificAve,Tacoma

253.535.3939meltingpot.com



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Tacoma21 Cellars 2621 North 21st St 253.353.2317 21cellars.com The Harmon Brewery 1938PacificAve253.383.2739 harmonbrewingco.com The Hub Brewery 203 Tacoma Ave South253.683.4606 hub.harmonbrewingco.com

Olympia Dockside Bistro and Wine Bar 501 Columbia St NW 360.956.1928 docksidebistro.com Olympic Wine Merchant101 North Capitol Way360.786.9463 olywine.com Pint and Quarts Westside 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.943.5611 pintsandquartspub.com SWING Wine Bar 825 Columbia St SW360.357.9464 swingwinebar.com

Auburn Auburn Wine and Caviar Company 2402 A St SE 253.887.8530 auburnwineandcaviar.com PuyallupCorkscrew Cellars116 East Stewart Avenue253.770.9463 corkscrewcellars.com NorthWest Vintage208 South Meridian253.864.wine (9463) northwestvintage.com KentShindig222 1st Ave South253.520.4705

Libations

Although Olympia’s SWING Wine Bar just swung its doors open in 2007, its reputation is already being toasted across the state. In only a handful of years, this lovely restaurant and wine bar has established itself as one of the best places in the South Sound to savor classic Northwest cuisine and sip award-winning Washington wines. In fact, the Washington Wine Commission presented SWING an award of recognition for their great local wine offerings just this year.

Perched atop Columbia street in downtown Olympia, SWING is a cozy, big, red, refurbished house nearly a century old with an awe-inspiring view overlooking Capitol Lake. Owner Nicole Butigan fell in love with the place immediately. She knew that the view was really the perfect backdrop for both locals and tourists alike who love having a lush natural Washington landscape incorporated into their meal experience as they sip on Columbia Valley wines or savor locally-caught salmon. “We love Olympia, and it really needed a wine bar. The view is fantastic and the house has so much charm,” said Nicole. Once and old empty house, SWING is now a home to a candlelit winebarteemingwithromanticdinnertables,fresh-cutflowers,a gorgeous outdoor dining patio, a well-stocked Washington wine cellar, guest jazz musicians, and a creative and cost-effective happy hour where signature SWING cocktails such as It’s 5 o’ Clock Somewhere, Walk The Line, and Ring My Bell.

When mulling over the menu at SWING bring a healthy appetite. Guestswillfinditfeaturesamplehearty,home-styleentrees,but

willappreciatethespecificPacificNorthwesttwistthechefputson old favorites like roast beef and chicken. For example, juicy pot roast takes on a new herbed freshness with a rosemary infused au jus. Roasted chicken becomes rustic when smothered with sage and a creamy, local Beecher’s white cheddar sauce. The savoryfiletmignonhere is toppedwith localwildWashingtonmushrooms. Zesty apple and ginger glazes the fresh salmon smoked daily on the back patio.

There is also a fun way SWING serves up their wine. Guests can order‘wineflights’—anirontree-shapedstandthatholdsthree2 ounce pours of wines with a common theme by varietal or region.“Thewineflightsareanabsolutestandout,”saidNicole.It’s a great way to enjoy the progression of three different wineswithdeepeningflavorsandbodyasthemealmovesfromappetizer, to salad, then to entrée.

Be sure to slip into SWING on Wednesdays and sometimes even onSaturdays.Youwillfindlivemusicaccompanyingyourmeal.Local acoustic guitarist Vince Brown has a standing appointment to strum mellow, delicate swing jazz every Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Nothing beats the lake view windows, warmth, wine, Wednesday jazz and down-home dinners at SWING. This charming wine bar is chock full of all the delicious details and drinks that make it well worth “swinging” into. TAMMY ROBACKER

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swing wine bar825 Columbia St SW, Olympia

360.357.9464swingwinebar.com



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825 Columbia St. SW, Olympia (360)35-SWING

swingwinebar.com

Open 4pm Monday to Saturday Lush Rush 4 to 6pm daily

21 and over

Olympia’s Premier Wine Baroverlooking Capitol Lake

Sax Restaurant and Lounge Now open for lunch and dinner

253.572.0588 | www.saxon6th.com 2309 6th Ave, Tacoma, Wa

610 Water St. SW, Olympia 360 709-9090 / waterstreetcafeandbar.com

lunch 11:30 – 2 weekdays / dinner 4:30 daily / happy hour 4:30 – 6 daily

waters t reet café + bar

Upscale Northwest fusion cuisine in an elegantly relaxed setting Olympia’s largest wine selection

Dining terrace with views of Capital Lake & Legislative Rotunda

-have your estaBlishment incluDeD in the 2011

[email protected]

In April 2008, Amy and Peter Chen of Olympia opened Fujiyama Restaurant on the Westside. They have brought a taste of Tokyo to Olympia by serving traditional ‘Teppanyaki’ cuisine—a style of Japanese fare that uses an iron grill to cook the food (Teppan= iron plate, Yaki= grilled)—Fujiyama also puts their personal spin on the delicious tradition. Fujiyama got me most thrilled about their grilling because of the talented chefs, the freshest local seafood and meats they serve, and their creative, Asian-inspired cocktails.

There, chefs prepare your meal theatrically to order; grilling meat and vegetables right at the table. Our knife-wielding, singing and joking chef Glen Amberson, was one of the most talented I’ve ever seen. This chef was more like a one-man show. He bounced and balanced eggs on his spatula. Hecreatedaflamingvolcanooutof stacked, thick slicesofonionandhomemadegarlicbutter.Andheflippedaperfectlyseared sea scallop off the grill, tossed it mid-air, then landed it deliciously centered on my plate.

Fujiyama really gets grilling with high quality meats and fresh caught seafood. You’ll find excellent entrees in all of theirHibachi listings. Steak is plentiful and popular, and they offer the best cuts to include New York, Rib Eye, Filet Mignon and a 10 oz Center Cut. Their seafood offerings are local and fresh and the steak/seafood combinations can be made up withsucculent choices like shrimp, salmon, scallops or lobster.

“One of the more popular entrees is the Fujiyama Deluxe with fried rice—which is by far the best of both worlds,” exclaims Patricia, a manager at Fujiyama. “This meal is made up of a premiumcutoffilet,afreshlobstertail,andscallops—whichmakes the entree a customer favorite!”

Other Tokyo-inspired treats included a marvelous martini menu. As a huge fan of fruity martinis, I was jazzed about trying the juicy Toyko Apple and the refreshing Plumtini. For those who enjoy sipping a bit dangerously, you may prefer the spicy likes of a Wasabi Martini or a Sayonara Martini. The restaurant also conveniently features two daily happy hours in their bar during the week—one in the afternoon and one later in the evening.

Other highlights include fair value pricing for the food, service and entertainment. Fujiyama also makes many of their sauces and dressings from scratch with seasonings like fresh garlic, ginger and wasabi. If it’s dinner and a show you want, Fujiyama won’t disappoint. TAMMY ROBACKER

2930 Capitol Mall Drive, Olympia360.352.9888


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