Showcase Magazine, Best of 2014

BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST

Target • The RAM MOD Pizza Petsmart • Menchie’s Party City LA Fitness • and More

Ladies Night Out • Holiday Festivities • and Other Free Family Events

Your Shopping and Dining Destination South Hill at Meridian and 156th

MySunriseVillage.com

THE FUTURE OF CATARACT SURGERY IS HERE....

Introducing bladeless computer-guided laser cataract surgery.

This FDA-approved surgery is tailored to every individual eye with exacting precision, unlike any cataract surgery before it. In fact, it goes beyond replacing just your cataract, by managing astigmatism or even replacing the cataract with new vision correcting implants. Thanks to bladeless laser cataract surgery, more people are seeing 20/20 without glasses than ever before.

Bladeless Cataract Surgery. Only at Evergreen Eye Center. For more information, call toll free

1-855-NO-BLADE | 1-855-662-5233 | evergreenbladeless.com

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R EAWA K E N Facials Body Wraps Pedicures 1320 Broadway Plaza Tacoma, WA

253.627.2000

Manicures Massage

shopsavi.com

robin lucas | publisher cynthia tanis | editing manager tessa gilbertson | art director sarah valadez | web editor ann gosch | copy editor colleen valadez | administration donna caskey | events/south sound rep cheri johnson | pierce county rep 11222 49th St E, Edgewood WA 98372 info@showcasemedialive.com 253.826.9001 253.799.9189 (fax) showcasemedialive.com Copyright Š 2014 ShowCase Media. All rights reserved.

Editorial content and photography is welcomed for consideration.

showcase magazine | best of 2014

BEST OF 2014

SERVICES • SHOPPING • DINING Whether you are a first-time visitor or longtime local, we welcome you to ShowCase Magazine’s annual “Best of” issue, a celebration of our esteemed organizations in the Puget Sound area. You may notice that this year we have expanded the guide to include the category of services. Here we grow again! In addition, we crowdsourced our most popular sections. Readers were able to weigh in on their favorites in our area.

The dust has settled and in these pages we have uncovered businesses that stand victorious and come highly recommended as organizations that staff and readers have voted as first-class in our region. I encourage you to recognize our winners and check out those represented. We also encourage you to shop, dine and live local. It is a good time to continue to encourage our local businesses and economy.

Across the South Puget Sound you will see ShowCase Magazine’s “Best of” logo proudly displayed in popular businesses. You will also find these winners “ShowCased” on our website at showcasemedialive.com, available on your mobile, tablet or laptop.

We congratulate these businesses that have earned the gold medal for this “Best of” magazine and for being at the top of their game, so to speak. We hope that you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed sifting through the choices to compile this issue.

To educate, entertain and inspire!

Robin Lucas

Robin Lucas, Publisher

CONTENTS 06

HOME & INTERIORS

08

HEALTH & BEAUTY

15 SERVICES 17

BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY ITEMS

21 SHOPPING 25 GIFTS 26

DINING WITH FLAIR

28

FRESH FOOD

30 ITALIAN 32

ASIAN INFLUENCE

34

MEAT LOVERS

38

SPICY FOODS

BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST BESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOF OFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBESTOFBEST

BEST OF 2014

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HOME & INTERIORS AUDIO VISUAL SERVICES Click Cable TV clickcabletv.com

Desco AV 2306 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia 360.943.1393 descoav.com

HOME BUILDERS SERVICES American Dream Design Build 133 15th St E, Puyallup 253.446.9000 americandreamdesignbuild.com

INTERIORS

Furniture Works Gently Used & New Furnishings 402 Washington St NE, Olympia 360.570.0165 olyfurnitureworks.com Old Cannery Furniture Store Home Furnishings 13608 Valley Ave E, Sumner 253.863.0422 oldcanneryfurniture.com Red Door Repurposed Furnishings & Décor 430 Washington St SE, Olympia 360.357.7799 reddoorolympia.com Selden’s Furniture Fine Furniture & Home Décor 1802 62nd Ave E, Tacoma 253.922.5700 seldens.com Sound Glass Glass Solutions 2201 75th St W, Tacoma 253.584.6191 soundglass.com

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INTERIORS (CONTINUED) Tailored Living Custom Closets & Garages 253.299.0109 tailoredliving.com/puyallup

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Buds & Blades Landscape Olympia 360.456.3586 budsandblades.com Olympic Landscape & Irrigation 5620 112th St E, Puyallup 253.922.7075 olympiclandscape.com

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Ryan Karns, Realtor 33310 1st Way S, Federal Way 253.569.8435 ryankarns.com

showcase magazine | best of 2014

the gold goes to olympic landscape and irrigation “Building long-term relationships with our customers sets us apart from our competition,” says John Sullivan, lead designer at Olympic Landscape and Irrigation Co. He cites an example of the company serving two generations of the same family: Beautifying the outdoor space at the family’s Puyallup home led to doing the same when they moved, and again when the couple settled into their retirement dwelling. Recently their son, who’d been a child in the first house, hired Olympic to develop his own yard.

any plants or seeds come from sources west of the Cascades.

For her two-acre garden, that took a great deal of research, says Sullivan, but he also admitted he had fun doing it.

Olympic Landscape owner Neil Hedman began the company in 1977 after working for another landscaper who focused mainly on sprinkler systems. Hedman wanted to widen the range of work he could do, offer quality craftsmanship and have a financially sound business. Now with 30 employees and 30 years of workmanship under his belt, he’s accomplished what he set out to do by giving customers what they want.

5620 112th St E, Puyallup 253.922.7075 olympiclandscape.com

He says everyone at Olympic is driven by the creative spirit. All the creativity and enthusiasm begins in the office with a team approach. “We treat our fellow employees like we treat our customers,” says Sullivan. “That shows in our work.” vHEATHER LARSON

“Our practice is almost 100 percent residential, and half of that includes renovating existing landscapes,” says Sullivan. “We do paving, stonework, stunning water features, decks, plantings or whatever the customer needs.” And he says they aren’t afraid of a challenge.

A homeowner with an 11,000-square-foot log home asked for all of her plantings to be 100 percent native to the area and that

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showcase magazine | best of 2014

HEALTH & BEAUTY DENTAL SERVICES

Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Stuart Hersey 8012 112th St Ct E, Puyallup 253.864.9889 smilesforkids.com

SPA SERVICES Savi Day Spa 1320 Broadway Plaza, Tacoma 253.627.2000 shopsavi.com

Rainier Dental Four locations in the Puget Sound rainierdental.com

DERMATOLOGY SERVICES

Peninsula Dermatology & Laser Clinic 4700 Pt Fosdick Dr NW, Gig Harbor 253.851.7733 peninsulaskincare.com

EYE CARE SERVICES Clarus Eye 345 3rd Ave SE, Lacey 360.456.3200 claruseye.com

Evergreen Eye Center Four locations in the Puget Sound 800.340.3595 evergreeneye.com

MEDICAL CENTERS

St. Joseph Medical Center 1717 South J St, Tacoma 253.426.4101 fhshealth.org Capital Medical 3900 Capital Mall Dr SW, Olympia 360.754.5858 capitalmedical.com RADIOLOGY SERVICES Diagnostic Imaging Dr. Alison J. Reinbold Women’s Imaging and Mammography Multiple locations 253.445.0222 minw.com

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showcase magazine | best of 2014

crafting spirits through heritage—heritage distilling co Heritage Distilling Company is a business steeped in tradition and, as its slogan promises, every spirit has a story. From the moment you arrive at the distillery, one thing becomes clear: This is more than just a place to sample spirits. It is a place where you are welcome to create your own story. The inspiration is everywhere, from the tasting bars made of a single, western maple, to the black and white family photographs that adorn the walls, along with an impressive Roosevelt elk rack. Surrounding the tasting room are beautiful casks of individually crafted spirits, each bearing a unique name and carrying its own meaning.

Justin and Jennifer Stiefel opened Heritage Distilling Company in late 2012, where they have created award-winning spirits and innovative programs that bring their slogan to life. Guests can join in the “Your Whiskey, Your Way” programs called My Batch or Cask Club, in which, for the first time, members can legally engage in the crafting of their own spirits. Members receive a 10-liter private oak cask filled with a customized spirit, aged to their liking, along with other privileges.

You can get up close to the action during a tour of the distillery. Tours begin daily in the tasting room before you are given a firsthand look at the engineering involved in creating each of the unique spirits offered by HDC. You are shown the mash tank, where the process begins, and then continue to the various fermentation tanks, each one named for a member of the Stiefel family. Finally, you meet “Nonna,” a 2,000-liter custom Italian still, fabricated of copper and stainless steel, before the tour concludes back in the tasting room.

Stop by for a distillery tour or a sampling and perhaps you will find the inspiration to create a spirit that tells your story. vANDREA LERUM 3207 57th St Ct NW, Gig Harbor 253.509.0008 heritagedistilling.com

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getting fresh—harbor greens market Fans of the Food Network will find the obscure ingredients they need to complete a recipe at Harbor Greens Market, including bamboo-smoked sesame seeds and cornichons. The store also carries Simple & Crisp blood orange dried fruit crisps and Brittany Bay Gourmet salad dressings. Apart from stocking the unusual, this gourmet grocery emphasizes local freshness and quality.

“We have the freshest produce you can get as it’s delivered to us each morning from local farms,” says Scott Teodoro, co-owner.

“In the summer we have the lion’s share of fruits and vegetables from nearby farms, about 70 percent of all our produce.”

Using produce, proteins and other ingredients from the Market, blogger Kate creates easy-to-follow recipes to post on the store’s blog at harborgreens.wordpress.com. Stuck for dinner ideas?

Then visit Kate’s blog. Or pick up take-out from the delicatessen.

When the Gig Harbor location opened seven years ago, the most popular area of the store turned out to be the deli. Teodoro and his business partner, Chad Roy, were surprised to see people line up to order handcrafted sandwiches, salads and soups. So when they opened their University Place location in March 2013, they

included a larger dining area, with seating for 28, where customers can enjoy their deli purchases in the market.

When you enter the store, you can see all four corners, unlike a big-box warehouse where you don’t know what’s around the corner. From the butcher shop and seafood case on the left to the thoughtful selection of wines on the right, the store bursts with color and tempting items. Best of all, helpful and approachable staff working throughout the market are also eager to answer your questions or help you locate a product.

Their passion for food and entrepreneurship shines when Teodoro and Roy talk about the small businesses they’ve helped put on the map by featuring their goods before anyone else.

Heritage Distillery, 7 Seas Brewery and Lynnae’s Pickles are just a few of those local businesses. It doesn’t get much more community minded and fresh than Harbor Greens Market. vHEATHER LARSON 5225 Olympic Drive SW, Gig Harbor 253.851.7911 2620 Bridgeport Way W, University Place 253.460.2901 harborgreensmarket.com

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elevating the audio-visual experience—desco av Since 1969, DescoAV has been building lasting relationships through quality customer service and a true passion for electronics. This passion and pursuit of customer satisfaction has brought continued success to the Olympia business and high-quality audio-video systems to countless South Sound businesses and residences alike. From an all-inclusive home automation system that integrates entertainment, video security and all home electronic components in one easy-to-use control, to a complex boardroom design for the office, DescoAV delivers a broad range of products and innovative systems to elevate the audio-visual experience.

Attention to detail and personal interest are what set DescoAV apart from its big-box competitors. The service team takes the time to get to know each client’s specific needs and vision before creating a plan that will exceed the client’s expectations. Each system is designed using the highest-quality products. Products are not limited to electronic devices but also include high-end entertainment seating and AV cabinets, all of which are designed to enhance the user experience.

Once a system has been engineered and designed, the service team delivers and installs all components. All technicians are highly trained in ongoing product education, so once they complete the installation of a system, they give the clients an indepth demonstration of their new system.

Though DescoAV has evolved to meet the growing demand for high-tech home and office systems, it remains true to its roots and is one of the last audio-video stores that will repair a wide variety of electronics regardless of brand.

You are invited to visit Desco’s showroom and experience for yourself the superior quality and professionalism behind elevating the audio-video experience in the South Sound. vANDREA LERUM 2306 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia 360.943.1393 descoav.com

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Trust the Home Entertainment Experts System design and professional installation backed by 40 years of exceptional service

Audio Systems TV & Video Home Theater Home Automation Video Security Service & Repair Call for a free in-home consultation descoAV.com l 360.943.1393 l Voted Best of South Sound for Home Entertainment Custom Home & Business Electronics Systems Since 1969

Meet our new Doctor Lisa McCoy DDS Bonney Lake office

Prompt, Professional,

and Pleasant.

Feel free to reach us at

360.456.3586

Come see our work at

budsandblades.com

showcase magazine | best of 2014

SERVICES AUTOMOTIVE

Capitol City Honda 2370 Carriage Loop SW, Olympia 866.204.6684 capitolcityhonda.com Rolf’s Import Auto Service 3122 96th St S, Lakewood 253.584.7770 rolfsimport.com Titus Will Ford 3606 South Sprague Ave, Tacoma 253.475.4151 tituswillford.com

BANKING

Commencement Bank 1102 Commerce St, Tacoma 253.284.1800 commencementbank.com OBEE Credit Union Five locations in the South Sound obee.com Olympia Federal Savings Seven locations in the South Sound olyfed.com

INSURANCE AGENCIES

Altman Insurance 1025 Black Lake Blvd SW, Olympia 360.705.0466 altmanagency.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Connelly Law Offices Tacoma & Seattle locations connelly-law.com Phillips Burgess Tacoma & Olympia locations phillipsburgesslaw.com

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PREMIUM SERVICE MODERN AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS Featuring the Northwest’s Premier Customer Care Program

Book Online!

We’ll donate $5 to our charity of the month.

Contact Us Today!

We have 2 locations to serve you.

Fife: 253-248-1080 Lakewood: 253-584-7770 RolfsImport.com

LIFE IS GOOD. SEE IT MORE CLEARLY.

Clarus doctors offer the most advanced eye care available to help you see more clearly.

CLARUSEYE.COM DUPONT | 253.912.2020 1200 STATION DR #150 LACEY | 360.456.3200 345 COLLEGE ST. SE STE. C

• • • • •

General eye care & exams LASIK & multifocal lens implants Cataracts, glaucoma, corneal & external diseases Eyelid & facial plastic surgery Eyewear, sunglasses & contact lenses

showcase magazine | best of 2014

BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY ITEMS TACOMA

Blitz & Co Florist Gifts & Home Décor 909 Pacific Ave 253.572.2327 blitzflorist.com Envy Women’s Clothing Boutique 2614 North Proctor St 253.761.5531 facebook.com/envytacoma Relax the Back Back Pain Relief Products & Solutions 5015 Tacoma Mall Blvd 253.475.2520 relaxtheback.com The Art Stop Hand Crafted Art, Jewelry & Clothing 940 Broadway 253.272.3377 artstoptacoma.com

PUYALLUP

LaBella Bags Handmade Couture Bags 253.359.2119 labellacouture.com Victoria Sells Antiques Well, it’s all in the name!

125 South Meridian 253.445.8330 cochrans.com/victoriasells

SUMNER

A Picket Fence Home Decor, Gifts & Jewelry 1006 Main St 253.863.6048 apicketfence.com SugarBabies Upscale Children’s Boutique 926 Main St 253.299.6221 shopsugarbabies.com showcasemedialive.com

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Blitz & Co Florist

your stores. your mall.

experience

it

ALL

Shop, Dine, Play and Stay

Bringing life to flowers for over 25 years.

253.572.2327 | blitzflorist.com

Featuring unique gifts: Bunnies by the Bay Votivo Franz Chocolate Vance Kitera Home Expressions

Not your ordinary coffee chat…

It’s not often we sit around over a cup of coffee talking about an imaging exam. That is until your medical provider says you need one. It may be the joyful sight of a baby’s ultrasound, a closer look at a newfound pain, or the annual mammogram.

No matter the reason, we are here.

So u th H i l l Mall.com

•

MallG ift Cards .net

10am to 9pm, Mon.-Sat. • 11am to 6pm, Sun. Located at Hwy. 512 & South Meridian on Puyallup’s South Hill Puyallup, WA • 253.840.2828

MR I | CT | ULT R A SO UND | MA MMOGRAPHY | X -RAY

showcase magazine | best of 2014

BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY ITEMS—CONTINUED GIG HARBOR

Emilie Gallery & Boutique Art & Accessories 3133 Harborview Dr 253.858.7736

LAKEWOOD

Infusion Design Furniture, Décor, Gifts & Interior Design 7513 Custer Rd W 253.472.4100 infusion-interior.com

OLYMPIA

Archibald Sisters Fragrance & Personal Care Essentials 406 Capitol Way S 800.943.2707 archibaldsisters.com Belleza Ropa Women’s Clothing Boutique 101 Capitol Way N 360.352.ROPA (7672) bellezaropa.com Courtyard Antiques Antiques & Bistro 705 4th Ave E 360.352.3864 courtyardantiquesolympia.com Popinjay Jewelry, Chocolate Truffles, Furniture & Lotions 414 Capitol Way S 360.352.9841 Vivala Clothing & Shoes 111 Market St NE 360.754.VIVA (8482) vivalastore.com

LACEY

Shipwreck Beads Everything you need to create beautiful jewelry 8560 Commerce Pl Dr NE 800.950.4232 shipwreckbeads.com showcasemedialive.com

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SUMNER

The place you have to see to believe.

Over 20 Billion Beads and everything you need to make beautiful jewelry at one-tenth the cost of pre-made. Boutique Beauty at Warehouse Prices.

ShipwreckBeads.com

Unique contemporary crafts handmade by local & regional artists, including pottery, jewelry, wood & glass.

Also offering pottery classes and ‘Paint Your Own Pottery’ studio.

~ Beautiful NEW Hotel, Opened October 2008 ~ Complimentary Express Start Breakfast Bar ~ Complimentary WIFI ~ Indoor Pool, Whirlpool and Fitness Center ~ 1800 Square Feet of Flexible Meeting Space ~ 32inch Flat Panel LCD TV’s ~ Pet Friendly

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 2500 136th Ave Court E / Sumner, WA 98390

Phone: 253-299-0205 / Fax: 253-863-0293 2212 North 30th Street, Tacoma, WA 98403

253-254-7961 www.throwingmudgallery.com

www.hiexpress.com/sumnerwa

showcase magazine | best of 2014

SHOPPING TACOMA

Tacoma Mall Clothing, Jewelry & Dining 4502 South Steele St 253.475.4565 simon.com

PUYALLUP

Johnson Jewelers 103 South Meridian 253.848.1332 johnson-jewelers.com South Hill Mall Retail, Movies & Dining 3500 South Meridian 253.840.2828 southhillmall.com Sunrise Village Shopping, Dining & Services 10507 156th St E 253.904.8923 mysunrisevillage.com

FEDERAL WAY

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

KENT

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

AUBURN

The Outlet Collection Retail Stores & Restaurants 1101 Outlet Collection Way 800.SAY.VALU (800.729.8258) outletcollectionseattle.com

OLYMPIA

Capital Mall & Promenade Over 100 Stores, Restaurants & Century Theatres 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.754.8017 shoppingcapitalmall.com showcasemedialive.com

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fashionable, functional and personal—la bella couture custom bags The handbag. It is a staple in the closet of many women, who often rotate through bags depending on their needs, destination or mood.

It is those three elements—need, destination and mood—that all came together for Kim Archambeau, owner and founder of La Bella Couture, on a flight to Atlanta with her 3-year-old and 2-year-old in tow.

On that flight Archambeau found herself having to tote some items for her kids in a plastic grocery bag. It was then she realized that many diaper bags lacked functionality as well as personal style. The liner could not be easily cleaned after a bottle spill, and that inspired Archambeau to design a diaper bag that gave her the best of both worlds: fashion and function.

What began as a desire to make mommy duties a little bit easier has now grown into a successful custom bag line. Based in Puyallup, Archambeau has expanded her line to include messenger bags, camera bags, clutches and cross-body bags, wristlets, and yoga bags.

What makes her products unique is the level of customization, so each bag is personal to the woman carrying it. Customers can select from fabrics offered through the website or even choose their own. La Bella Couture has partnered with New Beginnings Homes in Pierce County, where portions of bags are sewn by a seamstress in training. Each bag contains at least one waterproof compartment for things like water bottles or umbrellas. And all the bags are machine washable.

Designed for fashion and function, these bags are worthy of a spot in every woman’s handbag rotation. vANDREA LERUM 253.359.2119 labellacouture.com

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GREEN CHOICE LENDING Considering buying, building or retrofitting with energy efficiency in mind? Let us show you how to match your energy efficient home with a NEW Oly Fed Green Choice Lending program that’s right for you.

To learn more about Oly Fed’s Green Choice Loan options, contact one of our Loan Officers today!

“Our Friends Call Us Oly Fed” DOWNTOWN

421 Capitol Way S 360-754-3400

WEST OLYMPIA

2420 Harrison Ave W 360-754-3430

TUMWATER

303 Cleveland Ave SE 360-754-9520

www.olyfed.com

BELFAIR

24081 NE State Rte 3 360-275-6001

YELM HIGHWAY

4860 Yelm Hwy SE 360-456-3470

LACEY

4310 Sixth Ave SE 360-459-1156

HAWKS PRAIRIE

8300 Quinault Dr NE 360-493-1800

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GIFTS—GIVE THE GIFT OF EXPERIENCE TACOMA

Broadway Center for the Performing Arts 901 Broadway 253.591.5890 broadwaycenter.org Pacific Northwest Shop Northwest Specialty Gifts & Products 2702 North Proctor St 253.752.2242 pacificnorthwestshop.com Throwing Mud Gallery 2212 North 30th St 253.254.7961 throwingmudgallery.com

GIG HARBOR

Heritage Distilling Company 3207 57th St Ct NW 253.509.0008 heritagedistilling.com

LAKEWOOD

Lakewood Playhouse 5729 Lakewood Towne Center Blvd 253.588.0042 lakewoodplayhouse.org Washington Center for the Performing Arts 512 Washington St SE 360.753.8585 washingtoncenter.org

OLYMPIA

Drees Home Décor & Gifts—Publisher’s Favorite 524 Washington St SE 360.357.7177 dreesofolympia.com Olympia Farmers Market 700 Capitol Way N olympiafarmersmarket.com

CENTRALIA

Historic Fox Theatre 123 South Tower Ave centraliafoxtheatre.com showcasemedialive.com

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DINING WITH FLAIR TACOMA Art House Café

111 North Tacoma Ave 253.212.2011 arthousecafe.com

Bite

1320 Broadway Plaza 253.591.4151 hotelmuranotacoma.com

Pacific Grill

1502 Pacific Ave 253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com

Savor Creperie 1916 Pacific Ave 253.365.5534 savorcreperie.com

OLYMPIA Acqua Via

500 Capitol Way S 360.357.6677 acquavia.com

Mercato Ristorante Italian Influence 111 Market St NE 360.528.3663 mercatoristorante.com

Swing Wine Bar

825 Columbia St SW 360.357.9464 swingwinebar.com

Waterstreet Café

610 Water St SW 360.709.9090 waterstreetcafeandbar.com

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pacific grill Dining at Pacific Grill is truly an all-encompassing sensory experience. The food is impeccable and crafted with flair using only the finest ingredients to establish unique depths of flavor. The atmosphere is classic but not too serious and made all the more relaxing by warm lighting and unique artwork adorning the dining room. Knowledgeable wait staff guide guests through the menu, answering questions and offering wine selections to complement every meal. It should come as no surprise that this Tacoma favorite seized the Best of Dining with Flair category in this year’s reader’s choice poll.

Catering to all palates, menu selections range from appetizers inspired by the raw food movement to classics like filet mignon. Vegan and gluten-free options are also offered for guests with more specific food requirements.

Though winning the Dining with Flair spot, Chef/Owner Gordon Naccarato believes the food and atmosphere speak to a more laidback experience. “Although you can certainly have a fine-dining experience, I like to think we are much more casual. I think the food is fun and delicious but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” says Naccarato.

While lunch and dinner tend to draw large crowds, the small plates and cocktails offered during happy hour have long been a favorite of the downtown working crowd and have garnered additional accolades. “We know how to throw a great party and invite Tacoma to have a fantastic night on the town,” adds Naccarato. Pacific Grill also offers an extensive catering menu for events ranging from office functions to retreats and private events. Reserved dining events can also be held in the private dining room, which seats 30 or can hold up to 40 for a larger reception.

Whether for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out after a long day at the office, a fantastic meal and wonderful experience await at Pacific Grill. vANDREA LERUM 1502 Pacific Ave, Tacoma 253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com

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FRESH FOOD TACOMA Anthony’s

KENT Banyan Tree Restaurant

Johnny’s Dock Restaurant

LAKEWOOD Oakhouse Restaurant

5912 North Waterfront Dr 253.752.9700 anthonys.com 1900 East D St 253.627.3186 johnnysdock.com

Margaret’s

Daily salads make our favorites list 754 St Helens Ave 253.274.8788

Marlene’s Natural Foods Market & Deli 2951 South 38th St 253.472.4080 marlenesmarket-deli.com

Proctor Farmers Market 2702 North Proctor 253.961.3666 proctorfarmersmarket.com

Steamers Seafood Cafe 8802 6th Ave 253.565.4532 steamersseafoodcafe.com

Tacoma Farmers Market 950 Broadway 253.272.7077 tacomafarmersmarket.com

PUYALLUP Puyallup Farmers Market 330 South Meridian puyallupmainstreet.cm/events

FEDERAL WAY McGrath’s Fish House 1911 South 320th St 253.839.5000 mcgrathsfishhouse.com

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504 Ramsay Way 253.981.6333 banyantreerestaurant.com

8102 Zircon Dr 253.584.8888 rmgclub.com

GIG HARBOR Green House Restaurant 4793 Point Fosdick Dr NW 253.514.6482 greenhousegigharbor.com

OLYMPIA Anthony’s

704 Columbia St NW 360.754.7444 anthonys.com

Gardner’s

111 Thurston Ave NW 360.786.8466 gardnersrestaurant.com

Olympia Farmers Market 700 North Capitol Way 360.352.9096 olympiafarmersmarket.com

showcase magazine | best of 2014

johnny’s dock restaurant—a tacoma waterfront icon since 1953 From the crab likeness on the wall, to the canoe hanging from the ceiling, to the marine life that circles the plates, you know this restaurant speaks “seafood” fluently. And you’re still in the bar. Here breakfast is served on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children can sit in the lower bar area during those times. To satisfy your morning seafood cravings, there is a smoked salmon benedict, hangtown fry, and crab and shrimp omelet, and each of these menu items comes with a house-made fruit-filled cinnamon coffee cake served warm that literally melts in your mouth.

Whether you prefer the bar or the main dining room, every meal comes with a waterfront view alongside the Thea Foss Waterway and across from the Museum of Glass.

Weather permitting, outdoor seating brings the smells and sights of the sea even closer. And the food naturally tastes better outside.

Ng cited prime rib, seafood fettuccine, halibut and the fresh catch of the day as the most popular menu items at Johnny’s Dock. Other choices that come from the Pacific Northwest include salmon served with house-made seasoned butter; grilled Willapa Bay razor clams, the Tuesday special; and Dungeness crab cakes, the Thursday special.

Besides fresh, high-quality food, a delicious view, and gracious staff, there’s lots of free parking for your waterfront dining experience. vHEATHER LARSON 1900 East D St, Tacoma 253.627.3186 johnnysdock.com

Chef Steve Ng says you can expect prices to change this summer with a decrease in portion size. “That seems to be what people want,” he says. “Our product is top-notch and we never skimp by buying the cheap ingredients.”

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ITALIAN TACOMA Joeseppi’s

2207 North Pearl St 253.761.5555 joeseppis.com

Primo Grill

Fresh Italian 601 South Pine St 253.383.7000 primogrilltacoma.com

PUYALLUP Mama Stortini’s

GIG HARBOR Massimo Italian Bar & Grill 13802 Purdy Dr NW 253.514.6237 massimobarandgrill.com

OLYMPIA Basilico Italian Ristorante

Toscanos

Mercato Ristorante

SUMNER Aversano’s

Pellegrino’s

6015 Parker Rd E 253.863.3618 aversanos.com

Sorci’s Italian Café & Enoteca Italian Eatery & Deli 1012 Ryan Ave 253.891.8400 sorcisitaliancafe.com

FEDERAL WAY Leonardi’s Pizza 106 SW Campus Dr 253.838.7357

Verrazanos

Fine Italian 28835 Pacific Hwy S 253.946.4122 verrazanos.com showcasemedialive.com

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

Italian Restaurant & Bar ShowCase Favorite: Lamb Chops 3207 East Main Ave 253.845.7569 mamastortinis.com Fine Dining Italian 437 29th St NE 253.864.8600 toscanospuyallup.com

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KENT Mama Stortini’s

507 Capitol Way S 360.570.8777 ristorantebasilico.com

Italian Influence 111 Market St 360.528.3663 mercatoristorante.com

205 Cleveland Ave SE 360.709.9020 pellegrinositaliankitchen.com

Pizzeria La Gitana 518 Capitol Way S 360.753.2929 pizzerialagitana.com

CENTRALIA Boccata Deli & Market Italian Eatery & Deli 405 North Tower Ave 360.736.2404 eatatboccata.com

YELM Pizzeria La Gitana 309 Yelm Ave E 360.400.2929 pizzerialagitana.com

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sorci’s italian cafe & enoteca At Sorci’s Italian Café and Enoteca, owner David Barnes and his team take traditional Italian cuisine and add creative inspiration for new combinations of fresh, simple ingredients in the recipes we all love. That means that plump, juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic and basil, and the finest, most flavorful 100 percent olive oils are core ingredients for the café’s superior bruschettas, pastas, sauces and hearty meat entrees.

“We make Italian food sexy here,” said Barnes.

Barnes purchased and took over the restaurant from the previous owner in November 2012. He kept many of the staff members and, in the past year, pleasantly discovered that one of his cooks, Alejandro Hernandez, had a skilled background in food preparation and an impressive career working for high-end restaurants in California.

Promoting the quaint café’s loyal cook was a no-brainer for Barnes. Now Chef Alejandro creates popular signature dishes including 10-layer lasagna with tangy arrabbiata sauce, creamy crab manicotti, and juicy chicken breast smothered in a piquant lemon caper sauce served over a bed of luscious risotto and vegetables.

Chef Alejandro loves Italian food, but his true passion is for people and perfection. “My family inspires my cooking. I love to see people enjoying my food. I don’t send a plate to the dining room unless it’s perfect.”

Sorci’s is the perfect spot if you have a weakness for wines too. Barnes had a professional sommelier design the wine list, and he is currently training to be certified as well.

The café proudly features traditional selections from Old World Italy to New World blends from Washington, Oregon and California.

Guests also love the full bar, great happy hour deals and affordable lunch menu for delicious Italian dining on the go in the South Sound. The Sorci’s dining room has a rustic, cozy feel that you’ll find warm and inviting for family dinners and romantic dates. vTAMMY ROBACKER

photo by christine cox

1012 Ryan Ave, Sumner 253.891.8400 sorcisitaliancafe.com

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ASIAN INFLUENCE TACOMA Galanga Thai

BONNEY LAKE Trapper’s Sushi

Indochine Asian Dining Lounge

FEDERAL WAY Indochine Seafood & Satay Bar

Thai 1129 Broadway 253.272.3393 galangathai.com

Thai ShowCase Favorite: Dancing Buddha 1924 Pacific Ave 253.272.8200 indochinedowntown.com 4612 N Pearl St 253.761.2727 indochinepearl.com

Trapper’s Sushi Sushi 3118 6th Ave 253.302.4025 trapperssushi.net

PUYALLUP Ayothaya

Thai 4102 South Meridian 253.841.7599 ayothayarestaurant.com

Chili Thai

Thai 3712 9th Ave 253.864.7005 chilithai.com

House of Kee

Chinese 15305 East Meridian 253.848.4899 houseofkee.com

Trapper’s Sushi Sushi 206 39th Ave SW 253.891.2046 trapperssushi.net

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Sushi 20649 Hwy 410 E 253.987.7632 trapperssushi.net

Thai 31406 Pacific Hwy S 253.529.4214

Tokyo Japanese Steak House Teppanyaki tableside grilling 1404 South 320th St 253.839.4352 tokyojapanesesteakhouse.org

KENT Trapper’s Sushi Sushi 321 Ramsay Way 253.236.8712 trapperssushi.net

LAKEWOOD Thong Thai

Earthy, Friendly Thai 12836 Pacific Hwy SW 253.581.1115

OLYMPIA Fujiyama

Teppanyaki tableside grilling 2930 Capitol Mall Dr 360.352.9888 fujiyamaolympia.com

Lemon Grass Thai 212 4th Ave W 360.705.1832

Mekong Restaurant Thai, Vietnamese 125 Columbia St NW 360.352.9620

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trapper’s sushi Origami, cloisonné, calligraphy, flower arranging and silk weaving—all are art forms associated with Japanese culture.

Japanese food preparation is also an art.

Trapper O’Keeffe began making sushi over 18 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.

Japanese mochi ice cream is small rounded scoops of the frozen confection wrapped inside tender, rice-based mochi. It’s available in either strawberry or mango.

“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 said.

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

“It is always better to give than receive,” said O’Keeffe. vMARY MORGAN Seven locations in the Puget Sound trapperssushi.net

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MEAT LOVERS TACOMA Harmon

OLYMPIA Eastside Big Tom Drive Inn

Marrow Kitchen and Bar

Ranch House BBQ

Pacific Grill

Ricardo’s

The Hub

ROCHESTER Lucky Eagle Steakhouse

1938 Pacific Ave 253.383.2739 harmonbrewingco.com 2717 6th Ave 253.267.5299 marrowtacoma.com

1502 Pacific Ave 253.627.3535 pacificgrilltacoma.com 203 Tacoma Ave 253.683.4606 hub.harmonbrewingco.com

PUYALLUP Crockett’s Public House 118 East Stewart Ave 253.466.3075 crockettspublichouse.com

Iron Chef Japanese Steakhouse

Teppanyaki tableside grilling 4301 South Meridian 253.848.3759 ironchefsteakhouse.com

SUMNER Brank’s BBQ 13701 24th St E 253.891.1789 branksbbq.com

Windmill Bistro 16009 60th St E 253.826.7897 windmillbistro.com

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2023 4th Ave E 360.357.4852 eastsidebigtom.com

10841 Kennedy Creek Rd SW 360.866.8704 ranchhousebbq.com 5211 Lacey Blvd SE 360.413.9995 chefricardo.com

12888 188th Ave SW 360.273.2000 luckyeagle.com

SHELTON The Strip Steak House 405 Railroad Ave 360.432.5844

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prime rib and steakhouse at lucky eagle casino and hotel Something new awaits steak lovers at the Prime Rib and Steakhouse at Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel. Fusing local ingredients and a vision for creating an unforgettable dining experience is setting the steakhouse apart from restaurants in the area.

Located southwest of Olympia in Rochester, Lucky Eagle is situated among dozens of farms, providing the inspiration for a regionally inspired menu.

For Aaron Breen, room chef, and Darren Ahlf, assistant food and beverage director, taking a fresh approach to the menu meant the opportunity to showcase local offerings from the region’s farms, ranches and wineries. “We are fortunate to be surrounded by so many great farms,” says Breen. He is moving away from traditional methods and toward a farmto-fork approach, starting with meat selections. The beef comes from the highly acclaimed Double R Ranch in Loomis, Washington, where sustainability and animal well-being contribute to producing premium cuts of beef. The butchering is done in-house and then the beef undergoes an extensive aging process, resulting in a delicious cut of steak for diners.

The beverage menu has also been revived to include products from the region’s wineries. “We have elevated our beverage program to include regional wines and hand-crafted cocktails,” says Ahlf. He has worked extensively with Quilceda Creek and Leonetti Cellar in Walla Walla to bring in select wines such as highly sought-after merlots and cabernet sauvignons not previously available at the restaurant. Wines

are paired with menu items to offer guests a unique dining experience. Hand-crafted beer from local breweries is also offered as well as specialty spirits from local distilleries.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is intimate and inviting, the perfect place to enjoy seasonal offerings from delectable steak to fine wine. The Prime Rib and Steakhouse is open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner.

Reservations are highly recommended but not required. vANDREA LERUM 12888 188th Ave SW, Rochester 360.273.2000 luckyeagle.com

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Savor Creperie 1916 Pacific Ave | Tacoma, WA 98402 253-365-5534 | www.savorcreperie.com M-F 11am-7pm | SA 8am-5pm | Closed Sundays

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w at e rst re e t ca fé + b a r

Upscale Northwest fusion cuisine in an elegantly relaxed setting Olympia’s largest wine selection Dining terrace with views of Capital Lake & Legislative Rotunda 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

253.826.9001 • info@showcasemedialive.com

I - 5 Exit 88 • WEST ON HWY 12 TO ANDERSON ROAD • ROCHESTER, WA

FOLLOW US:

1-800-720-1788 • LUCKYEAGLE.COM

Locavore

– those who prefer to eat locally harvested food.

Olympia Farmers Market cultivates this movement bringing farmer relationships from a four county radius.

This year de light in a bumper crop of vibrant activ ity at the ma rket.

Contests, co oking demo ’s, garden tips, how-to’s an d hands on!

Get the dirt —right from our farmers.

Check out ou r website O FTEN to be sure yo u don’t miss what’s blooming at market!

A Jewel of the Sound – from farm to table, Olympia Farmers Market feeds our community.

www.olympiafarmersmarket.com / Follow us on Facebook 700 Capital Way N | 10am-3pm | Thurs-Sun April-Oct | Weekends Nov-Dec

OPEN 11 AM - 2 AM HAPPY HOUR FROM 4 PM - 6 PM & 10 PM - 1 AM EVERYDAY

721 PACIFIC AVE TACOMA, WA (253) 627 - 7100 • 21+ ONLY

www.MatadorRestaurants.com

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SPICY FOODS TACOMA Asado Cucina Argentina

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

Madea’s Cajun Café 417 Garfield St S 253.536.7060 madeascajuncafe.com

Matador

721 Pacific Ave 253.627.7100 matadorrestaurants.com

PUYALLUP Mis Tres Amigos

17530 Meridian E 253.864.8250 mistresamigosfamily.com

Puerto Vallarta

215 15th St E 253.848.8550 puertovallartapuyallup.com

FEDERAL WAY Chipotle Mexican Grill 31827 Pacific Hwy S 253.945.8287 chipotle.com

OLYMPIA El Sarape

4043 Martin Way E 360.459.5525 elsarape.net

Peppers Mexican Restaurant 114 Cherry St NW 360.943.1111 peppersolympia.com

Trago Mexican Kitchen 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.338.0515 tragomexican.com

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LACEY Mayan Mexican

4520 Pacific Ave SE 360.491.8244 mayanmexican.com

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matador Tex-Mex techno cool. That’s what the Matador is. Deep amber lighting, trendy techno beats, and the aroma of spices and fire greet you as you cross the threshold. Guests, numerous and closely packed, lean in to one another to intimately relate tales as they sip drinks and sway to the beat.

The Matador owners started out with a vision of showcasing high-quality tequilas. Currently they have 130 varieties, with a well-trained bar staff that can steer you to a flavor that will satisfy your palate. We were treated to a classy sipping tequila by Fortaleza that was smooth like bourbon and had a taste that was both spicy and sweet with a hint of berry. That was at the end of our meal as we lingered to enjoy the atmosphere.

Next we sampled margaritas—handcrafted cucumber jalapeño margaritas to be exact—with a chipotle salt rim.

The salt is blended in-house; in fact many options here are house-made from scratch. The chefs focus on using traditional Mexican flavors and crafting foods rather than just cooking them. There’s a new fresh sheet every month and both traditional and daring options available.

Our appetizer of choice was Chipotle Mushrooms with house-made habanero sauce. They’re served in a cast iron pan and seem unassuming, but don’t be fooled. The smoky

chipotle flavors are followed by HEAT­—wonderful bodywarming heat, perfect for spice lovers. Hint for those with more timid tastes: order the guacamole with your chips and salsa. It’s not spicy and cools the heat well.

Carnitas was my dinner choice; my companions had Seared Steak Enchiladas. The pork is roasted for six hours in a spice mix until it’s soft and unbelievably tender, and served with a lime and cilantro sour cream and tortillas. The enchiladas were served with a creamy verde sauce that was so clear you could distinguish the different peppers.

The finale was a dessert of churros with raspberry jalapeño jam and chocolate chipotle sauce. You will perceive the sweet taste, and as you are savoring, the spices liven your mouth and settle pleasantly in the back of your throat. I think I found a new chocolate to love.

You never know what’s going to be on the fresh menu since the chef chooses ingredients that are at their best each season. It’s a perfect place to take in tequila, fabulous food and a sunset in style. vSARAHJOY SMITH 721 Pacific Ave, Tacoma 253.627.7100 matadorrestaurants.com

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