Visitors to Tacoma, Wash., enjoy the mild weather, a wide range of activities and beautiful waterfront restaurants. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a walking bridge, delights visitors with glass art as they cross from downtown Tacoma to the waterfront. Two casinos, Emerald Queen and Luciano’s Casino, offer gaming and concerts. Displays at the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, acquaint visitors with the 19th century European settlement. Here are several options for dining on the water in Tacoma.
Salads, grilled entrees and a wide choice of seafood make up the dinner menu at Johnny’s Dock. Daily lunch and dinner specials are offered. Johnny’s Dock is known for its coffee cake, which is available during weekend breakfast service.
Johnny's Dock Restaurant and Marina
1900 East D Street
Tacoma, WA 98421
253-627-3186
johnnysdock.com
The Lobster Shop has specialized in local seafood dishes for over 30 years. Two locations, one at Dash Point and the other on Commencement Bay, are both on the waterfront. Cioppino, a fish stew featuring sea scallops, shrimp, salmon, halibut, clams, mussels and crab, is a specialty of The Lobster Shop.
The Lobster Shop
4015 Ruston Way
Tacoma, WA
253-759-2165
lobstershop.com
The Lobster Shop
6912 Soundview Dr., NE
Tacoma, WA
253-927-1513
lobstershop.com
At RAM Restaurant, guests may choose from 18 different specialty burgers, including the Bourbon Blackjack, salads, soups and sandwiches.
RAM Restaurant and Brewery
3001 Ruston Way
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-756-7886
theram.com/washington/tacoma
Katie Down’s Waterfront Tavern and Eatery boasts views of the Cascade and Olympic mountains and large screen televisions showing sporting events. The casual restaurant features pizza, burgers, salads, sandwiches and seafood.
Katie Down’s Waterfront Tavern and Eatery
3211 Ruston Way
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-756-0771
katiedowns.com
Operating since 1959, Harbor Lights sits on pillars above the water. In the summer months, patrons enjoy patio dining. Known for large portions, Harbor Lights’ menu features steaks and seafood. Favorites include Wild Salmon Salad with citrus shallot dressing and Salmon ‘n Chips.
Harbor Lights
2761 N. Ruston Way
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-752-8600
anthonys.com/restaurants/info/harborlights.html
As the name suggests, Duke’s is famous for its chowder, which has won numerous awards at the Seattle Chowder Cook-Off. Two chowder varieties are offered, one with Dungeness Crab and bourbon; the other with salmon, halibut and clams. Calamari, salmon or crab can be added to any salad on the menu.
Duke’s Chowder House
3327 Ruston Way
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-752-5444
dukeschowderhouse.com
In addition to lunch and dinner service, C.I. Shenanigans hosts a weekly Sunday brunch. Made-to-order omelets and crepes, fresh oysters, hot entrees, salads, and 15 different desserts are featured.
C.I. Shenanigans
3017 Ruston Way
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-752-8811
cishenanigans.com/tac.php
