Best of Dining & Shopping Guide 2011

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Dining & Shopping Guide

letter from the editor

the substance

shopping

showcase picks | sugarbabies p07 showcase picks | store full of stories p09 shopping guide p11 showcase picks | greenbelts p15 gift guide p16

dining

asian influence italian meat lovers fresh food latin influence family favorites libations sweet endings

p20 p22 p24 p26 p28 p30 p33 p34

robin lucas | publisher cynthia tanis | editing manager tessa gilbertson | art director toni anderson | event manager judy frank | south sound rep 11222 49th st east, edgewood, wa 98372 info@showcasemedialive.com 253.826.9001

253.799.9189 (fax)

showcasemedialive.com facebook.com/showcasemedia Copyright © 2011 ShowCase Media. All rights reserved. Editorial content and photography is welcomed for publication consideration.

Last winter a friend joined me for dinner on a cold January evening. With an eyebrow cocked, she ordered a clam dish. Intrigued, I listened as she smiled and told me, “I am in search of the perfect clam dish.” She went on to weave a story, in explicit detail, relaying her search over the past few years involving visits to dozens of restaurants up and down the west coast. The fare she sampled ranged from dishes as simple as steamed clams accompanied by lemon to elaborate culinary compositions which took unexpected twists to bring out the unique flavor of the shellfish. I love that, in an effort to reveal herself and where she comes from, she shared the highlights of her experiences—“the best of” as it were—with her friend.

What a rare gift it is to find someone who takes an interest in noticing all the small things which add up to the best experiences. I carefully considered this concept as we designed this issue. Uncovering the finest things really is about the process. When you find something extraordinary you want to share it. We have taken pleasure in finding some of the best to share in this issue.

With fall on the horizon, our goal is that our year of capturing experiences, both good and bad, helps you discover the best. Whether savoring a new dish at a restaurant, shopping in rapture for the holidays, or simply enjoying time filled with all the little things that make life amazing, we hope these pages save you time and enhance your life while affording you quiet moments to find what makes it even more gratifying.

Publisher Robin Lucas

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

Best of

SHOPPING

robin lucas | publisher cynthia tanis | editing manager tessa gilbertson | art director toni anderson | event manager judy frank | south sound rep

xx

showcasemedialive.com

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sugarbabies

Pink onesies declaring, “My prince has come and his name is Daddy.” HALO Plush Dots wearable blankets with satin trim.

Blue and white polka-dot ceramic piggy banks. SugarBabies has them all.

926 Main St, Sumner 253.299.6221 shopsugarbabies.com Open since 2005, SugarBabies Boutique is a chic trendy baby

clothing boutique in downtown Sumner. The upscale children’s shop stocks new and consigned items—everything from clothing and accessories to nursery furniture and diaper bags. Along with designer brand outfits, shoes and hats, SugarBabies offers practical items such as bottles, diaper covers, toddler bowls with utensils and maternity clothing.

Consigned items include toys, books and clothing through size 10. All consigned items are in “like new” condition.

“The boutique section has a great selection of really cool clothes and accessories that are hard to find in this area, including highend diaper bags and baby carriers,” an anonymous reviewer said on yelp.com. “A little heavy on girl stuff, but isn’t that the case at most places? The prices for the boutique items are comparable to what you’d find on the internet.”

Shopping can be done from the convenience of home in SugarBabies’ online shop. Gift certificates can also be purchased on the website; registries can be viewed or created.

photos courtesy of sugarbabies

In November, SugarBabies moved to a newly restored and rehabilitated 4000 square foot space at 926 Main. SugarBabies’ new store offers three times the space to showcase their products and a nursery design area.

The nursery design center displays several nurseries.

SugarBabies stocks a wide array of bedding, cribs and wall décor.

For two consecutive years, SugarBabies has been awarded “Best Children’s Clothing Store” in the KING 5 “Evening Magazine” Best of Western Washington feature.

“I started SugarBabies as a way to offer cute kid things,” Ashley Salas, proprietor, said.

She has succeeded. MARY MORGAN

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shopping

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

store full of stories

The Pacific Northwest Shop represents the region with style and taste.

Colorful art glass ornaments, bowls and vases glisten with iridescence in the window of the Pacific Northwest Shop in Tacoma’s Proctor District. Every piece contains volcanic ash from Mount Saint Helens. In the midst of this kaleidoscope, a woman admires an ornament, smiles, and takes it up to the counter to purchase.

“Did you see how happy she was?” Asks the shop’s owner, Bill Evans, after the woman leaves. “I love it. We’ve been selling volcanic glass for thirty years.”

Customers who visit the shop—located in a 1924 brick building on the corner of 27th and Proctor—will find tasteful gifts made in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and British Columbia.

The charming proprietor offers them the essence of what he loves—Northwest history, art, scenery, cuisine and culture.

photos candace brown

The art comes in many forms, including jewelry, carvings, pottery, framed prints, photos, traditionally styled Northwest Native artwork and greeting cards. Serving pieces, made in Seattle, enclose copper images of salmon and crabs, glimmering between clear layers of textured glass. Fern designs enhance delicate wooden bookmarks.

Treat yourself to Washington wines, books by local authors, CDs featuring local musicians, clothing, decorated textiles, candles, soap and body care products. Northwest candy, chocolate, coffee and tea, gourmet foods, sauces and preserves wait to be savored.

“Carol and Bud Moon are local farmers who raise their own berries and then make the most wonderful raspberry jam you’ve ever tasted,” Evans declares. He looks around and adds, “Wooden back scratchers by Bruce Willis, hand screened tea towels made by Christie Vaughn, glass blown by a whole group of co-op members; the stories go on and on.

It’s all about community.”

For a shopping experience as refreshing as a mini-vacation, stop by the Pacific Northwest Shop. CANDACE BROWN

2702 North Proctor St, Tacoma 253.752.8094 or 800.942.3523 pacificnorthwestshop.com

“Almost everything we sell has its own story,” Evans says.

He is able to tell them all, since he knows approximately 250 different local vendors personally. Many operate small cottage industries. “There’s a lady in Anacortes who makes incense with her three kids. She told me how excited the kids get when I place an order, because they realize that they have actually made something that other people want and that they’re going to be compensated for it.”

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shopping

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

Shopping Guide Tacoma

Puyallup

Women’s Clothing Boutique 2711 6th Ave 253.761.0984 annetteb.com

Fine Jewelery 103 South Meridian 253.848.1332 johnson-jewelers.com

Annette B. Boutique

Johnson Jewelers

Art Process Studio & Gallery

Victoria Sells Antiques

Envy

Auburn

Selden’s Furniture

Wines, Champagne, Beer & Caviar 2402 A St SE 253.887.8530 auburnwineandcaviar.com

Hand Crafted Jewelry 4712 Brookdale Rd East 253.307.9680 artprocessstudio.com

Women’s Clothing Boutique 2614 North Proctor 253.761.5531 Fine Furnishings & Home Decor 1802 62nd Ave East 253.922.5700 seldens.com

Tacoma Mall

Clothing, Jewelry, Dining 4502 South Steel St 253.475.4565 simon.com

Kent

Kent Station

Retail Stores, Restaurants & Cinemas 417 Ramsay Way 253.856.2301 kentstation.com

Earthworks

Custom Designed Jewelry 235 First Ave South 253.859.4112 earthworksgem.com

Well, it’s all in the name!

125 South Meridian 253.445.8330 cochrans.com/victoriasells

Auburn Wine & Caviar Company

Supermall

Retail Stores & Restaurants 1101 Supermall Way 800.SAY.VALU (800.729.8258) supermall.com

Olympia

Archibald Sisters

Fragrance & Personal Care Essentials 406 Capitol Way South 800.943.2707 archibaldsisters.com

Belleza Ropa

Women’s Clothing Boutique 101 Capitol Way North 360.352.ROPA(7672)

Continued on page 13 showcasemedialive.com

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Join us this weekend for GREAT FOOD, WINE & MARTINIS! Sunrise Village in Puyallup 10404 156th St East (off 156th & Meridian) 253-268-0248 Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm Friday & Saturday 11am - 11pm

Downtown Puyallup 208 South Meridian

(Meridian between Meeker & Pioneer) 253-864-WINE (9463) Thursday, Friday, Saturday 4pm - 10pm

Sunday thru Wednesday Available for Private Rentals & Wine Tastings

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Red Door, with an eye for fabulous, blends fresh color, bold texture and style bringing repurpose to vintage furnishings at a conscious price!

Your yard, your style... by design

New arrivals~specialty fragrance, jewelry, handbags, and gifts...

Shiraleah Handbags & Accessories Tokyo Milk Fragrance Line Dakota “Made in America” pillows CBK Uniquely affordable lamps Erica Maule Original Collages

Of course, Red Door’s one of a kind original creations.

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4310 70th Ave E, Fife, WA 98424

olympiclandscape.com 253-922-7075

Landscape Design, Install & Service

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

Shopping Guide Continued from page 11 Courtyard Antiques Antiques & Bistro 705 4th Ave East 360.352.3864

Ginger Street

Vintage & New, Gifts & Home Décor 509 Capitol Way South 360.943.1545 gingerstreetstore.com

Red Door

Repurposed Furnishing & Décor 430 Washington St SE 360.357.7799

Scarlet Empress

Artisan Stationary & Scrapbooking 109 5th Ave SE 360.570.8800 scarlet-empress.com

Westfield Capital Shopping Center

Over 100 Stores, Restaurants & Cinemas 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.754.8017 westfield.com/capital

Federal Way

Federal Way Custom Jewelers Custom Jewelry 1810 South 320th St 253.839.7389 federalwaycustomjewelers.com

Sumner

A Picket Fence

Home Decor, Gifts & Jewelry 1006 Main St 253.863.6048 apicketfence.com

Old Cannery Furniture Store Home Furnishings 13608 Valley Ave East 253.863.0422 oldcanneryfurniture.com

SugarBabies

Upscale Children’s Boutique 926 Main St 253.299.6221 shopsugarbabies.com

Gig Harbor

Emilie Gallery & Boutique Art & Accessories 3133 Harborview Dr 253.858.7736

Hush Baby Gig Harbor

Upscale Maternity & Children’s Boutique 4729 Point Fosdick Dr NW 253.858.4874

Harbor Gallery

Art & Gift Items 3155 Harborview Dr 253.851.8626 harborviewsharborgallery.com

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greenbelts reclaimed collars Staying in step with the eco-trend has fashion forward dogs wearing recycle symbol shirts and eating from responsibly harvested wooden bowlsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;we uncovered a designer that takes it one step further and has a postive impact on the environment.

Enter Shannon Ritscher, a graphic designer/stay at home mom who wanted to teach her children about recycling by re-using household materials and donated belts to create beautiful dogs collars. The lesson was learned and since then has turned into a custom recycled collar empire! Greenbelts has been featured on the handmade super-store Etsy for over two years and already has a huge fan base.

photo courtesy of greenbelts

The collars and cuff sets that Shannon creates eschew the typical nutty-crunchy organic style exhibited by most recycled garb and relies heavily on her graphic design background.

These stylish pieces have a vibrant and chunky feel, dare we say glamorous!

Using various old belts donated by her Seattle neighbors, Ms. Ritscher embellishes the collars with doorbells, washers, old buttons, military badges and anything else that strikes her fancy.

Being that the decorative touches are all based on whatever materials are at hand, each collar is totally unique. Sheek refashioned collar for your canine friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas gift? Local designer Shannon Ritscher creates one of a kind gifts that Fido will love and you feel good about giving. LEAH GROUT

greenbelts.etsy.com 253.297.5560

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shopping

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

gift guide Tacoma bellaballs

Einmaleins Kitchen Store

Relax the Back

Ginger Street

Tacoma Mall

Popinjay

Hand Crafted Japanese Floats 747 South Fawcett Ave 253.627.0183 bellaballs.com Back Pain Relief Products & Solutions 5015 Tacoma Mall Blvd 253.475.2520 relaxtheback.com Clothing, Jewelry, Dining 4502 South Steel St 253.475.4565 simon.com

Tacoma Art Stop

Hand Crafted Art, Jewelry & Clothing 940 Broadway 253.272.3377 artstoptacoma.com

Olympia

Compass Rose

Gifts & Décor 416 Capitol Way South 360.236.0788 compassroseolympia.com

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Vintage & New, Gifts & Home Décor 509 Capitol Way South 360.943.1545 gingerstreetstore.com Jewelry, Chocolate Truffles, Furniture & Lotions 414 Capitol Way South 360.352.9841

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

Puyallup

South Hill Mall

120 Stores, Restaurants & Cinema 3500 South Meridian 253.840.2828 southhillmall.com

Sumner

Courtyard Antiques

A Picket Fence

Antiques & Bistro 705 4th Ave East 360.352.3864

Home Decor, Gifts & Jewelry 1006 Main St 253.863.6048 apicketfence.com

Drees

Give the Gift of Experience!

Home Décor & Gifts—Publisher’s Favorite 524 Washington St SE 360.357.7177

16

Modern European Products 121 State Ave NE 360.539.6175 olympia.einmaleinshaus.com

Lakewood Playhouse lakewoodplayhouse.org

Eileen Fisher Tribal Comfy NYDJ Dansko, Wolky J. Seibel, Fidji Birkenstock

> `Ê ÃÌÀ Everything for your home, from our Courtyard Home!

Quality antiques, rustic and weathered, old and new will delight shoppers. Over 70 dealers, create pleasing displays of home décor, furnishings, accessories, gifts and more!

101 Capitol Way N. Olympia, WA 98501 360.352.ROPA info@bellezaropa.com www.bellezaropa.com

Courtyard Antique Mall, a unique shopping experience in Olympia!

705 4th Avenue East Olympia, WA 98506-3929

360-352-3864

Open 7 Days A Week, 10a - 6 p

We are a full service spa and salon that specializes in Eyelash Extensions, Manicures, Pedicures, Facials, Body Treatments, waxing, sugaring, and hair!

253-447-8876

www.thesecret-spa.com Open Monday- Saturday 10-5 We are on Facebook!

Images by Jason Ganwich

As seen in ShowCase Magazine

2011 Puyallup Fair Concert Series Presented by Fri. Sept. 9

Sat. Sept. 10

Mon. Sept. 12

Tue. Sept. 13

Wed. Sept. 14

Thur. Sept. 15

Fri. Sept. 16

Justin Boots Rodeo Playoffs followed by

Justin Boots Rodeo

Selena Gomez

Chicago and The

Sammy Hagar and The Wabos

“Weird Al” Yankovic

Amy Grant & Michael W. Smith

Joe Nichols

Playoffs followed by Ricochet

& The Scene

Tacoma Symphony

Sat. Sept. 17

Mon. Sept. 19

Tue. Sept. 20

Wed. Sept. 21

Fri. Sept. 23

Sat. Sept. 24

Miranda Lambert

Big & Rich and Gretchen Wilson

Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs

The Flaming Lips

Trace Adkins

Larry The Cable Guy

with Cowboy Troy and Two Foot Fred

with Gloriana

Purchase online now at thefair.com and choose your own seats.

Indochine Asian Dining Lounge 1924 Pacific Ave S Tacoma, WA 98402 253-272-8200 www.indochinedowntown.com

Best of

DINING

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showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

asian influence Tacoma

Gangala Thai Thai 1129 Broadway 253.272.3393 gangalathai.com

Indochine Asian Dining Lounge Thai ShowCase Favorite: Dancing Buddha 1924 Pacific Ave 253.272.8200 indochinedowntown.com

Olympia Fujiyama

Japanese Hibachi 2930 Capitol Mall Drive 360.352.9888 fujiyamaolympia.com

Lemon Grass

Thai 212 4th Ave West 360.705.1832

Mekong Restaurant Thai, Vietnamese 125 Columbia St NW 360.352.9620

Bonney Lake Sushi Town

Sushi 20649 Hwy 410 East 253.891.2046 sushitownbonneylake.com

Federal Way

Indochine Seafood & Satay Bar Thai 31406 Pacific Hwy South 253.529.4214 indochinefederalway.com

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Tokyo Japanese Steak House Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all in the name 1404 South 320th St 253.839.4352

Puyallup Ayothaya

Thai 4102 South Meridian 253.841.7599 hellothaifood.com

Chili Thai

Thai 3712 9th Ave 253.864.7005 chilithai.com

House of Kee

Chinese 15305 East Meridian 253.848.4899

Trapperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sushi Sushi 206 39th Ave SW 253.891.2046 trapperssushi.net

Lakewood Thong Thai

Earthy, Friendly Thai 12836 Pacific Hwy SW 253.581.1115

Yen Ching

Chinese 8765 South Tacoma Way 253.444.6638

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

trapper’s sushi 206 39th Ave SW, Puyallup 253.891.2046 trapperssushi.net

dining

16908 SE 269th Pl, Covington 253.981.3270 trapperssushi.net Sushi Town 20649 State Route Hwy 410, Bonney Lake 253.891.2046 sushitownbonneylake.com

Origami, cloisonné, calligraphy, flower arranging and silk weaving­ Japanese mochi ice cream is small rounded scoops of the —all are art forms associated with Japanese culture. Japanese frozen confection wrapped inside tender, rice-based mochi.

It’s available in either strawberry or mango. food preparation is also an art.

Trapper O’Keeffe began making sushi over 16 years ago. In 2004 he began his own venture, Sushi Town, which will be celebrating its sixth anniversary this year.

A traditional starter, tempura combo is deep fried vegetables and shrimp. Crispy asparagus, carrots and sweet potatoes are served with ponzu sauce, a tart, salty blend of citrus and soy sauce.

The earthy undertones of miso soup are enhanced with the addition of firm tofu and scallion garnish. Cucumber salad tossed in soy and lemon juice dressing is sprinkled with sesame seeds.

For those who are not sushi lovers, Trapper’s offers teriyaki —chicken, beef and shrimp.

Sushi and sashimi are accompanied by luxurious, meaty, octopus seaweed salad. The slightly chewy octopus contrasts with the crunchy seaweed. Maguro (tuna), shiro maguro (albacore), sake (salmon) and ebi (shrimp) are firm and fresh. The fish are accompanied by hot wasabi and thinly sliced pickled ginger.

Sushi Town’s specialty is rolls. Through the end of September the “Russell Roll” will be on the menu. Named after an autistic son of a friend of Trapper, 100% of proceeds will go to the organization “Autism Speaks.” The special creation is a tempura roll with yellowtail and a special sauce, topped with green onion and tobiko.

“I participate in charitable activities because I like to give back.

I feel very fortunate to be able to help. My staff and I like being able to feel good about our stores knowing that we give back to our community,” O’Keeffe commented.

The restaurateur’s past philanthropic activities include collecting 1,200 pounds of food for local food banks; a breast cancer fundraiser donated 100% of proceeds for one day of sales for all three stores, generating over $10,000.

“Basically I like to give back and it makes us feel good” O’Keeffe explained. “It is always better to give than receive.”

MARY MORGAN

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showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

italian Tacoma

Europa Bistro

Italian Influence 2515 North Proctor 253.761.5660 europabistro.com

Joeseppi’s

2207 North Pearl St 253.761.5555 joeseppis.com

Primo Grill

Fresh Italian 601 South Pine St 253.383.7000 primogrilltacoma.com

Olympia

Basilico 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

Sumner

Aversano’s

6015 Parker Rd East 253.863.3618 aversanos.com

Sorci’s

Italian Eatery & Deli 1012 Ryan Ave 253.891.8400 sorcisitaliancafe.com

Puyallup

Mama Stortini

Italian Restaurant & Bar ShowCase Favorite: Lamb Chops 3207 East Main Ave 253.845.7569 mamastortinis.com

Toscanos

Fine Dining Italian 29th St NE 253.864.8600 toscanos.com

Federal Way Leonardi’s Pizza 106 SW Campus Dr 253.838.7357

Verrazano’s

Fine Italian 28835 Pacific Hwy South 253.946.4122 verrazanos.com

Kent

Mama Stortini

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

Centralia

Boccata Deli & Market Italian Eatery & Deli 405 North Tower Ave 360.736.2404

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dining

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

adesso 109 Legion Ave SW, Olympia 360.705.2529 adessoolympia.com

Relatively new on the scene in downtown Olympia is Adesso, which opened in April. Renata Hanson partnered with successful chef Rudy Viggiano to create a unique food experience for everyone through their lunch, dinner and catering services.

“Your pleasure is our passion,” Hanson remarked.

linguine served in red sauce. Several seafood courses included cioppino, scallops Italian and snapper with lemon capers; carne entices with braised lamb shank and pork tenderloin roulade. All meat and seafood entrees are served with seasonal vegetables and risotto, polenta, or garlic mashed potatoes.

To the French poet Léon-Paul Fargue, eating an oyster is “like kissing the sea on the lips.” Adesso’s oyster appetizer is rich in complex flavors: the sweet saltiness of the shellfish is married with sliced mushrooms and prepared with a blend of cream, tarragon, and sweet, nutty sherry. Topped with bread crumbs and parmesan and broiled, this substantial starter accompanied by a salad is a meal in itself. Other appetizers include bruschetta, fried calamari, and roasted artichokespinach dip.

Risotto with crab and shrimp is abundant with lump Dungeness crab and firm black tiger prawns. Finished with pecorino Romano cheese, the grain is creamy and full-bodied.

Accompanying the main course is a side of julienne red pepper and zucchini al dente served on a bed of wilted spinach.

The menu offers a variety of entrees, from unconventional pizzas and calzones to pasta dishes and al forno (Italian for “baked dishes” or “from the oven”). With an emphasis on southern Mediterranean fare, several Greek and Spanish dishes are also available, including gyros and moussaka. On the fresh sheet were paella, polenta Bolognese, and seafood

Tiramisu is espresso-soaked sponge cake, layered with creamy mascarpone and topped with whipped cream. Other dessert options are chocolate mousse and New York style cheesecake with raspberry sauce.

Adesso features lunch and dinner. Catering is available; whether in their beautiful dining room or at your own special location, guests will be pampered with excellent service and exceptional food. Give this new and upbeat venue a try!

JANAE COLOMBINI

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showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

meat lovers Tacoma

Puyallup

Traditional Argentine Roast House 2810 6th Ave 253.770.7770 asadotacoma.com

203 35th Ave SE 253.841.1900 blackangus.com

Asado

El Gaucho

2119 Pacific Ave 253.272.1510 elgaucho.com

Good Fella’s

10117 South Tacoma Way 253.396.0500 goodfellas-steakhouse.com

Pacific Grill

1502 Pacific Ave 253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com

Olympia

Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill 1675 Marine Dr NE 360.705.3473 anthonys.com

Cascadia Grill

200 West 4th Ave 360.628.8731 cascadiagrill.com

Cicada

700 4th Ave East 360.753.5700

Falls Terrace

106 Deschutes Way SW 360.943.7830 fallsterrace.com

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Black Angus

Federal Way Billy McHale’s

1800 South 320th St 253.839.4200 billymchalesfw.com

Lakewood

Steakhouse Steaks

10109 South Tacoma Way 253.267.5187

Longview

Masthead Restaurant 1210 Ocean Beach Hwy 360.577.7972

dining

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

cicada 700 4th Ave East, Olympia 360.753.5700

Cicada Restaurant and Lounge is not for the timid palate.

You won’t find anything ordinary on the menu—no meatloaf, chicken strips, lasagna or Reuben sandwiches. Instead, the dining establishment creates unconventional dishes by combining ingredients not typically commingled; the result is dishes with standout flavors and textures.

Oregon venison ribs are a full-flavored appetizer. Brushed with mild barbeque sauce, the savory lean meat is tender and subtly earthy. Served on a bed of spinach and topped with sweet, seared diced apple and assertive gorgonzola, the resulting hors d’oeuvre is a successful marriage of diverse flavors. An alternate starter, Thai spiced carrot soup is a velvety puree of roasted carrots fused with aromatic curry.

Mixed greens tossed with julienne apples, coarsely chopped pecans, and five-spice vinaigrette are topped with a sphere of fried chevre. A medley of creamy and crunchy, sweet and

piquant, this salad is a must-try. Balsamic vinaigrette-dressed warm spinach salad is composed of bacon, mushrooms, Asiago—and a sunny-side-up duck egg. Both are accompanied by thin slices of rustic baguette, served with chive butter.

Generously sauced with smoked salmon Alfredo, tender potato gnocchi is made in-house. The comforting dumplings are finished with chopped fresh basil. Succulent pan-seared duck breast served atop roasted mashed yam is sauced with sweet-hot dried cherry-chipotle sauce. The rich dish is garnished with shredded asparagus.

The unexpected is what makes this eatery’s food stand out.

As motivational speaker, Jim Rohn, said, “If you are not willing to risk the unusual, you will have to settle for the ordinary.”

Don’t settle for the ordinary—give Cicada a try. You won’t be disappointed. MARY MORGAN

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fresh food Tacoma

Federal Way

Harbor Lights 2761 Ruston Way 253.752.8600 harbor-lights.com

Kent

Anthony’s 5912 North Waterfront Dr 253.752.9700 anthonys.com

Johnny’s Dock 1900 East D St 253.627.3186 johnnys-dock.com Pacific Grill 1502 Pacific Ave 253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com Steamers 8802 6th Ave 253.565.4532 steamersseafoodcafe.com

Olympia

Anthony’s Homeport 704 Columbia St NW 360.754.7444 anthonys.com Gardners Seafood & Pasta 111 Thurston Ave NW 360.786.8466 gardnersrestaurant.com Oyster House 320 4th Ave West 360.753.7000

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McGrath’s Fish House 1911 South 320th St 253.839.5000 mcgrathsfishhouse.com Banyan Tree Restaurant 504 Ramsay Way 253.981.6333 banyantreerestaurant.com

banyan tree restaurant 504 Ramsay Way, Kent 253.981.6333 banyantreerestaurant.com

Marinated in coriander, cumin and lemon grass, skewered shrimp satay are grilled and served with tart lime sauce.

They’re served in the authentic Thai style, heads intact.

Another starter, meatball lettuce wraps, are pork meatballs marinated in garlic, cilantro, shallots and green onion. Intended as finger food, they’re nestled in a lettuce wrap and garnished with peanuts and julienne ginger.

A house signature entrée, Pla Nieng Manao, is a whole sea bass, steamed and presented on a hot plate. A layer of lime slices blankets the fish. Served with lime vinaigrette infused with chilis, the delicate fish flavor comes alive as the dressing evolves from sweet to tart and ends with heat. Other main courses are classics such as Cashey Nut chicken and Swimming Rama.

Tom Yum fried rice is seasoned with lemon grass, handsqueezed lime juice, kaffir lime leaf, galangal, and cilantro. Chili paste adds a subtle bite. Though recommended with prawns, it proved a satisfying accompaniment to the sea bass. Other side dishes are Garlic Fried Rice, Phad Thai and Rama Noodle.

“Narm khuen hai reeb thug,” is a Thai proverb meaning “Seize the opportunity,” which is exactly what Gabe Wiborg and Porntip (Yuie) Helseth did when they turned a successful farmers’ market enterprise into a full-service restaurant.

photos by umair ahmed

Banyan Tree had humble beginnings at the Fremont Sunday Market, where Thailand native, Yuie, and fiance, Gabe, began selling Thai desserts; desserts led to salads dressed with Yuie’s exclusive recipe. Salads led to stir-fries; stir-fries led to sates.

The dream of a restaurant began and became a reality four years later.

A signature vegetable and seasonal offering, Phad Pak Boong Fai Dang, is morning glory stir-fried with fresh garlic, chili, black bean and soy sauce. Textures contrast; crisp-tender combines with delicate. Its subdued flavor is pleasantly complemented by the seasonings.

Dessert was firm, green bananas encased in wonton wrappers and fried until crisp. This final course is accompanied by coconut ice cream, and drizzled with honey and chocolate sauce. As an alternative, try the sticky rice with mangos or black rice pudding.

Banyan Tree welcomes you with its warm and uniquely appointed interior. Amber walls are adorned with threedimensional, abstract brass pieces which represent Banyan leaves. Tall creations serve as a divider and are made from the same gold-colored alloy; they portray lilies.

Yuie prides herself on serving authentic Thai food, unadulterated by American influences. She has perfected regional techniques and incorporated generational food and cooking methods, creating unique dishes.

Fresh garden rolls are created with fresh herbs with crispy tofu, cucumber, carrot, and thin rice noodles, hand rolled in a rice wrapper. Garnished with a carrot flower, they are served with homemade Thai herb dipping sauce. The distinct taste of cilantro in the condiment contrasts with the mildness of the spring roll.

Banyan Tree is an example of British poet, John Dryden’s observation, “Mighty things from small beginnings grow.”

From farmers’ market concession to a thriving restaurant, this dining establishment is proof that, with hard work, talent, and expertise, dreams can become reality. MARY MORGAN showcasemedialive.com

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dining

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

latin influence Tacoma

Asado Cusina Argentina

Traditional Argentine Roast House 2810 6th Ave 253.272.7770 asadotacoma.com

Chevys Fresh Mex 3702 South Fife St 253.472.5800 chevys.com

Olympia El Sarape

4043 Martin Way East 360.459.5525 elsarape.net

Peppers Mexican Restaurant 114 Cherry St NE 360.943.1111

Kent

Mexico Lindo

203 4th Ave South 253.854.5320

Puyallup

Puerto Vallarta

215 15th St East 253.848.8550 puertovallartarestaurants.com

Mis Tes Amigos

17530 Meridian East 253.864.8250

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Federal Way

Chipotle Mexican Grill 31827 Pacific Hwy South 253.945.8287 chipotle.com

Lacey

Mayan Mexican

4520 Pacific Ave SE 360.491.8244 mayanmexican.com

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

asado

dining

2810 6th Ave, Tacoma 253.272.7770 asadotacoma.com

The tango. Gaucho crafts. Soccer. Siestas. Argentina is rich in culture, but you need not hop on a plane to enjoy authentic Argentine fare. Located in the heart of the Tacoma 6th Avenue business district, Asado Restaurant boasts traditional cuisine from the South American country. Loosely translated, asado means “Argentine barbeque” and is a classic method for cooking meat on a grill or over an open fire. Asado brings an ethnically unique alternative to the Tacoma dining scene.

photo courtesy of asado

A ceviche appetizer is generous enough for two. The tower of mildly sweet tilapia, prawns, and mild, firm sea bass is layered on pico de gallo and topped with creamy, refreshing guacamole.

The seafood delicacy is accompanied by an Argentine staple, fried plantains, crunchy and lightly salted. Soft rolls are served with herbed, paprika tinted chimichurri butter. Other starters include vegetarian empanadas, chorizo and clams, and calamari frito.

The wedge salad is a savory blend of contrasting flavors and textures. Made with tender butter lettuce, velvety avocado, Serrano ham, tart grapefruit segments, and roasted corn, it is lightly tossed in avocado orange vinaigrette. Hoja Roha salad is created from red, frilly lolla rosa leaves, crisp ham, hard cooked egg, and pungent Cabrales bleu cheese; the medley is lightly coated with pistachio buttermilk dressing. Also available are quinoa, Caesar, and hierbas salads.

Asado offers the most complete selection of Argentine wines in the Northwest. Malbec is the most widely planted red grape variety followed by Bonarda, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Tempranillo. The influence of Italian immigrants has added a variety of Italian varietals to the vineyards.

Asado’s beef is all natural Black Angus and steaks are masterfully grilled over imported mesquite wood. Espalda Asado (flat iron steak) is presented over sweet roasted corn polenta finished with a hint of mild poblano chile. Al dente calabasita (butternut squash) gnocchi is served in a rich brown butter sauce, blended with rich macadamia nuts, wild mushrooms, julienne zucchini and slivered garlic cloves; it is a reflection of the Italian influence on the Argentine diet. Pita Puerco (pork chop stuffed with chorizo, cranberries, golden raisins, almonds, apples, and fennel) and Garron de Cordero (seared boneless chicken breast, caperberry, white wine lemon pan sauce, wilted arugula, and cherry tomatoes) are other entrees worth trying.

Dessert Crepas Dulces is a fried crepe purse filled with hazelnut butter, dulche de leche and pearl tapioca. It is accompanied

by Olympic Mountain Pistachio ice cream and cherry sauce.

Torta de Chocolate is a stuffed chocolate soufflé cake filled with caramel crème. It is complemented by white chocolate sauce and Olympic Mountain Madagascar ice cream. Crème brulee, dulche cheesecake, and pastels fritos (homemade banana donuts) round out the dessert menu.

Asado offers the fabulous flavors of Argentina using the freshest ingredients from the Northwest and beyond. Attention to quality, presentation and service makes it one of a kind. For a satisfying and unique experience, give Asado a try. MARY MORGAN

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showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

family favorites Tacoma Harmon

1938 Pacific Ave 253.383.2739 harmonbrewingco.com

Hub

Puyallup Auntee B’s

213 North Meridian 253.435.8833

Rock Wood Fired Pizza

210 West Pioneer 253.770.6147 comfortfoodcafe.org

Comfort Food

Sumner

Varsity Grill 1114 Broadway 253.627.1229 varsitygrill.com

Berryland Café

Olympia

Café & Restaurant 16009-A 60th Street East 253.826.7897 windmillbistro.com

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

Ramblin’ Jacks

520 East 4th Ave 360.754.8909 ramblinrestaurants.com

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2100 Oyster Bay Rd NW 360.943.1850 tugboatannies.com

203 Tacoma Ave 253.683.4606 hub.harmonbrewingco.com 1920 Jefferson Ave 253.272.1221 therockwfp.com

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Tugboat Annies

1101 East Main St 253.863.4567

Windmill Bistro

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

varsity grill 1114 Broadway, Tacoma 253.627.1229 varsitygrill.com

For starters, try one of the two signature items. Buffalo chicken strips are fried to a golden brown and tossed in homemade wing sauce. Served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, this classic appetizer is a small meal in itself. Sour cream and guacamole accompany Varsity nachos; crisp tortilla chips are smothered with pepper jack and cheddar cheeses, tomatoes, green onions, and your choice of chicken or beef.

photos by jeff hobson

The full bar features a rotating selection of domestic and microbrews; just ask your server what’s currently available.

Inclined to sample a new specialty cocktail? The menu offers close to a dozen signature drinks. The grapefruit Collins is a blend of Finlandia Grapefruit vodka, Pama and sweet and sour.

A hint of grapefruit with a pomegranate undertone make it tart and invigorating.

One of their biggest sellers—both literally and figuratively—is the Varsity burger. This diner chose to make the double patty burger a knife and fork affair! This American classic is made with one pound of fresh ground beef, two slices of cheddar, and two huge slices of applewood smoked bacon, all topped with an onion ring and blue cheese dressing. Served with some of the crispiest, best fries around, this is definitely a meal for a hearty appetite.

A fresh salmon filet is basted in garlic herb butter and grilled to moist, succulent perfection. The accompanying subtly seasoned fresh vegetables do not detract from the seafood’s distinctive, delicate attributes; nor does the rice pilaf. The natural aroma and flavor of the salmon is allowed to shine.

dining

With its casual, bustling atmosphere and walls studded with ten plasma televisions, Varsity Grill is the place to be on game day—or on any day. With generous portions of enticing food, this sports bar is an excellent locale for lunch or to unwind after a busy day.

St. Louis Ribs are slow smoked until falling-off-the-bone tender, then basted with homemade Varsity BBQ sauce; the condiment is mild—smoky and sweet. Available as a full- or half- slab, the pork is served with fries and lightly dressed coleslaw.

Sandwich choices are plentiful—choose anything from a BBQ pork sandwich to a club wrap or a French dip. The eatery’s BLTA is a remake of an old classic. It’s composed of housesmoked applewood bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado and mayo on a fresh croissant.

The menu includes almost every burger variation ever thought of, both chicken and beef. Three different cuts of choice, juicy steaks are served. The restaurant also serves up favorites like chicken penne and fish and chips.

Save room for dessert! The jumbo apple turnover, made inhouse, is a must-try! With its paper-thin layers of flaky filo crust, it is reminiscent of apple strudel. Encased in the tender pastry are tender apple chunks in a thick caramel-colored sauce laced with cinnamon. Served on a caramel-drizzled platter, this treat is enough for at least four people.

The eatery is close to downtown businesses, the theatre district, and UW Tacoma. With a different special or promotion every day of the week, a relaxed mood and quality fare, Varsity Grill is the place to try the next time you’re in Tacoma.

JANAE COLOMBINI

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Daily specials!

All-You-Can-Eat Sushi!

Visit our new restaurant for lunch and dinner!

109 Legion Way | Olympia, WA 98501 “Great Food, Spirits & Celebrations at our place or yours.”

Our full service catering services specialize in pairing great moments with well-executed flavors!

Book your next special event with us.

Call or visit our website today. www.AdessoOlympia.com | 360.705.2529

Fresh local ingredients.

Northwest cuisine prepared with inspiration from the Soulful South.

Winner of the prestigious Wine Spectator Award 2009, 2010

Three locations to serve you!

Puyallup 206 39th Ave SW, across from the South Hill Mall Bonney Lake Sushi Town, 20649 State Route 410 E Covington 16908 SE 269th PL, next to KOHLS

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HAVE YOUR ESTABLISHMENT INCLUDED IN THE 2012 BEST OF dining & shopping guide

Join us in the lounge for our brand new Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6 Special Live Music Events.

700 4th Avenue East Downtown Olympia (360) 753-5700 | Follow us on Facebook.

info@showcasemedialive.com

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

libations title Tacoma

The Harmon Brewery 1938 Pacific Ave 253.383.2739 harmonbrewingco.com

The Hub Brewery

203 Tacoma Ave South 253.683.4606 hub.harmonbrewingco.com

Olympia

Pint and Quarts Westside 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.943.5611 pintsandquartspub.com

SWING Wine Bar 825 Columbia St SW 360.357.9464 swingwinebar.com

Puyallup

NorthWest Vintage 208 South Meridian 253.864.wine (9463) northwestvintage.com

NorthWest Vintage 10404 156th St East 253.268.0248 northwestvintage.com

Kent

Shindig

222 1st Ave South 253.520.4705 Reds Wine Bar 321 Ramsay Way 253.277.1852 redswinebar-kent.com

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showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

sweet endings Tacoma

Jubilee Cupcakes & Vintage Candy 2510 N Proctor St 253.503.0709 jubileecupcakes.com Hello Cupcakes 1740 Pacific Ave 253.383.7772 hello-cupcake.com Corina Bakery 510 6th Ave 253.627.5070 corinabakery.com

Olympia

Wagnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s European Bakery & Cafe 1013 Capitol Way South 360.357.7268 Tasty Morsels 111 Legion Way SW 360. 357.4232 tastymorselsoly.com

Puyallup

Pioneer Bakery 120 Meridian South 253.845.8336 thepioneerbakery.com

Lakewood

German Pastry & Coffee Shop 6108 Mount Tacoma Dr SW 253.588.5777

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Federal Way Pasteleria Boris 1444 SW 320th Pl 253.838.7065

Sumner

Gast House Bakery 1012 Main Street 360.253.4921

showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2011

jubilee cupcakes & vintage candy dining

2510 North Proctor St, Tacoma 253.503.0709 jubileecupcakes.com

Patti Frank dreams cupcakes. Visions of sugary confections dance in her head. Her mind races with ideas for new creations. Callebaut and Valrhona chocolates, lemon, coconut, Champagne and bacon—yes, bacon—swirl through her imagination, marrying to make new and innovative treats.

Jubilee Cupcakes and Vintage Candy opened in July, 2010.

Formerly Sweet Things, a cupcake and vintage clothing boutique, Patti recreated the business as a cupcake and vintage candy shop.

photos courtesy of jubilee cupcakes & vintage candy

The locale exudes charm and nostalgia. A black and white awning hangs over a white wrap-around porch scattered with black wicker and wrought iron seating. Guests can linger over their cupcakes and Valhalla coffee or Mad Hat tea while looking out over a terraced garden, vivid with old-fashioned flowers.

More striking inside are the myriad of cupcakes. Displayed on tiered racks and pedestals, beautifully decorated cupcakes are everywhere. Over ten flavors are available each day; some are standard and others rotate daily. Seasonally, be on the lookout for specialty cupcakes for Christmas and Valentine’s Day. The Macon Bacon, a daily cupcake, is an intensely dark chocolate cake baked with house-made maple bacon and topped with maple buttercream and a piece of homemade maple bacon. No doubt inspired by a breakfast plate where pancake syrup met bacon, it is one of the most innovative offerings in the shop.

Moist, speckled banana cake is the basis for the Elvis. Filled with dark chocolate ganache, it’s completed with peanut buttercream and a drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce.

The Lemon Meringue bursts citrusy flavor. Patti is not shy in her use of fresh lemon juice and zest. Fresh lemon cake filled

with homemade lemon curd is topped with a traditional toasted Swiss meringue.

It’s obvious that quality is a priority. Cupcakes are baked in small batches throughout the day to ensure freshness; even if you are stopping off late in the afternoon to pick up an afterdinner treat, you can be assured of a fresh, moist product.

Patti and baker Cheryl Massimi are all about getting it right.

All components are made in-house and the from-scratch recipes are created and continually fine-tuned. The chocolate cupcake recipe was tweaked no fewer than fifty times before it met their quality standards.

Jubilee offers cupcake accessories, party supplies, and greeting cards. Also available is the most extensive collection of vintage candy in Pierce County, including Hammond’s Candies, oldfashioned lollipops, ribbon candy, and hand-pulled taffy.

A new undertaking is catering to the breakfast crowd. Stop by for a blueberry bumble muffin or a slice of banana pecan bread.

Anne Byrn said “When you look at a cupcake, you’ve got to smile.” When the finest ingredients meet creativity, when commitment melds with inspiration, and when innovation marries quality, the resulting cupcake makes you smile.

JANAE COLOMBINI

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Experience More The South Soundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

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

Chicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coldwater Creek Eddie Bauer i.talia Pizzeria Lane Bryant LOFT Massage Envy Talbots Tuscan Aveda Salon & Spa Located just off I-5 and 101 North in Olympia 360.754.8017 www.westfield.com

Bed Bath & Beyond

Best Buy

Borders

JCPenney

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