​Where to Eat in Tacoma, Washington

Just south of Seattle at the bottom of the Puget Sound, sits Tacoma, Washington, a sleepy urban center surrounded by water and towering pines. As a port city, life in Tacoma revolves around the water. The Sound is where people go to work, play, and unwind after a long day. Stroll along the water in Point Ruston, hike the cliffside trails in Point Defiance, or take in dinner with a view along the water. From bustling downtown eateries to classic dive bars, and waterfront dining, Tacoma has it all. Continue reading below for Where to Eat in Tacoma, Washington.

For Date Night

Primo, located along Tacoma’s funky 6th Avenue, is a chef-driven restaurant that prioritizes its close relationship with local farmers to craft a uniquely “Mediterranean by Northwest cuisine. Primo serves the freshest available produce and seafood alongside delicious craft cocktails and a sophisticated wine list. The ambiance inside Primo is modern and romantic, the perfect relaxed setting for date night.

Photo courtesy of https://www.instagram.com/primo_tacoma/

For Waterfront Dining

Point Ruston offers a wide selection of waterfront dining. Stroll along the Sound on foot or bike at sunset along the footpath that reaches connects Point Ruston, The Dune Peninsula, and Point Defiance, before settling down for dinner at one of the many establishments along the water’s edge. For fine dining, head to Copper & Salt inside the Silver Cloud Hotel. For something exotic, try BoRan Royal Thai Cuisine. For classic Pacific Northwest flavors, head to Wild Fin.

Photo courtesy of https://www.boranroyalthai.com/

For the Best Sushi in the PNW

Sushi in the Pacific Northwest isn’t like sushi in the rest of the United States. In the Pacific Northwest, the country’s finest fish markets collide with a thriving Japanese expatriate community, and the results are undeniably delicious. In Tacoma, the best sushi is a hotly debated topic among locals and visitors alike. However, you cannot go wrong with a visit to The Koi. The Koi is an upscale downtown restaurant with a wide selection of authentic rolls, nigiri, and sashimi, as well as several inventive menu items.

Photo courtesy of https://www.thekoitacoma.com/

For a Beer with a View

Good views are not hard to come by in Tacoma, but if you’re looking for a delicious craft brew with a view that’s just as satisfying, head to Narrows Brewing Company. Head to Narrows Brewing Company by land or sea for the best craft beer in Tacoma. Located on the Narrows Marina, Narrow’s Brewing Company boasts uninterrupted views of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.

Photo courtesy of https://narrowsbrewing.com/

For a Big Breakfast

For a big breakfast or a boozy brunch, head to Tacoma’s surf-inspired diner, Shaka Brah. Shaka Brah is famous for their massive proportions and tasty breakfast potatoes. Choose from a selection of classic breakfast items like omelets, pancakes, French toast, and a wide selection of signature scrambles.

Photo courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/ShakabrahJava/

For the Best Coffee in Town

Coffee is taken seriously in Washington. There’s no shortage of espresso stands and coffee shops in the area, but our favorite is Valhalla Coffee Co. Valhalla Coffee Co has been serving fresh cups of piping hot joe since 2004. Founder and Tacoma native, A.J. Anderson, has 25 years of coffee roasting experience, and it is evident with every cup poured.

Photo courtesy of https://www.valhallacoffee.com/