December 6, 2023

Top 20 Tacoma Brunch Spots: Discover Brunch in the City of Destiny

Ready to level-up your brunch game in Tacoma? Dive into our no-fluff guide where we spill the beans on the top spots that locals swear by.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Washington
Top 20 Tacoma Brunch Spots: Discover Brunch in the City of Destiny
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Welcome to Tacoma, where the T is not just for "The City of Destiny," but for Taste, Tradition, and the ultimate blend of breakfast and lunch. Here, the art of brunching is not just a mid-morning meal; it's a weekend ritual where the sounds of sizzling bacon sync with the rhythmic hum of the Puget Sound.

Tibbitts@FernHill

8237 Park Ave. S, Tacoma

(253) 327-1334

Reviewed by:

Katie Franklinschtien

I recently visited Tibbitts@Fernhill for brunch and it completely blew my mind. It's such a charming spot in Tacoma and I've never felt more at home while dining out. The food was out of this world – the best breakfast to ever grace my taste buds. Each dish is made with a clear passion for food and an attention to detail that you can taste in every bite. Shawn, the owner, is an extraordinary host. He really knows how to make every guest feel special, ensuring each visit is a memorable experience. The wait time disappears with his warmth and hospitality, and you're immediately part of the Tibbitts@Fernhill family. The interior of the restaurant is a feast for the eyes. It's cozy, inviting, and there's something interesting to look at wherever you turn. Even on a busy day, the wait is absolutely worth it. I'm confident in saying it's probably the best place for breakfast not just in Tacoma, but perhaps throughout Washington. Then there's the food. Oh, the food! I had the Mother Earth and Father Sky, their vegan option, and it was packed with flavors that danced on the palate. The fry bread was a standout, perfectly crispy yet soft. I didn't leave a single crumb on my plate. My partner chose the meat & gravy bomb and was equally impressed – the portion generous, the smell intoxicating, the taste divine. Shawn's dedication to zero waste is evident and impressive, especially considering the delicious masterpieces he creates using just two camping stoves. This place isn't just about eating, it's an event, a culinary adventure worth every second. I can't heap enough praise on Tibbitts@Fernhill. Every bite was a revelation of textures and tastes, and I highly recommend making a reservation to ensure your spot at this fantastic establishment. Trust me, you'll be planning your next visit before you've even finished your meal!

Red Elm Cafe

1114 M.L.K. Jr Way, Tacoma

(253) 327-1791

Reviewed by:

Mariah Torres

I must say, I recently had a brunch experience at Red Elm Cafe in Tacoma, and it was such a delight! The vibe was just perfect for a laid-back Sunday. It's not a big or overly fancy place, which makes it feel cozy and welcoming for a quick lunch meet-up. Their selection of soups, sandwiches, and pastries offers a simple yet satisfying menu, which I appreciate for not being too complicated. Parking was no hassle at all; I found a street parking spot easily enough. The service here deserves a shout-out too—it's quick, and everyone is so friendly. I really dig the order-at-the-counter style because it speeds things up and allows for separate checks without any fuss. And the pricing is spot on; I didn't spend more than $20 for my meal, which is a steal. Sure, they do breakfast a bit differently here, with waffles taking center stage on the menu. While some might say breakfast options are limited, I found the waffles to be delightfully fluffy, even if they weren't the crispiest. The unique way they prepare eggs—scrambled and pressed—was a new experience for me, albeit an unexpected one. The bacon, though, could have done with a bit more cooking time for my taste. The interior has its own charm, and it's a space brimming with potential. Plus, the coffee here is quite good, though I noted there's a charge for refills for dine-in customers. On another visit, the cafe was buzzing with people, and despite limited staff, the service held up alright. The waffle was just how I like it, perfectly cooked, but the hashbrowns weren't exactly to my liking. Still, the coffee was flavorful, even if there was a slight mix-up with my order. I'm willing to give it another chance and see if things improve on a less busy day. One of the best surprises was discovering Red Elm on a casual walk through Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood. The space is open, airy, and doubles as a little art gallery with local pieces for sale. There's even a play corner for kids, which is a thoughtful touch that families will surely appreciate. Their take on cake pops, waffle-based and available in red velvet or chocolate, was a hit, especially with the kids I had in tow. The owner and staff couldn't be more hospitable, going out of their way to make sure the kids had a blast. We ended up staying longer than planned because nobody wanted to leave. And let's not forget the food; when a fellow customer raved about the spinach mozzarella sandwich being better than the usual chain offerings, it was a testament to the quality of Red Elm's offerings. Overall, Red Elm Cafe is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth stopping by. Their approach to simple and satisfying fare, combined with a comfortable atmosphere, makes it a local spot that deserves some love and support.

Manny's Place

3814 N 26th St, Tacoma

(253) 301-4353

Reviewed by:

Robert Massingale

Today I finally got around to trying Manny's Place for brunch, a spot I've had on my must-try list from a recommendation in the paper. The establishment is cozy with about 15 tables, and the ambiance is simple and unpretentious. The menu is straightforward, covering all the breakfast essentials. My first impression of the meal was positive; the bacon and eggs were cooked just how we like them—scrambled and over medium. Although the pepper bacon didn't quite hit the mark on the pepper flavor, it was still deliciously prepared with the right balance of crispness. The hash browns were a highlight, managing to be crispy yet tender inside, and the sourdough toast was a nice touch to accompany the meal. What stood out at Manny's was the balance of quality and simplicity. The French toast was particularly notable for its caramel-like syrup, and the chicken fried steak was memorable for its crunchy exterior and tasty gravy. Despite the prices feeling slightly high, the portion sizes and flavors justified the cost. Service didn't miss a beat either. Our server Cynthia was attentive and spot-on with her recommendations. I was especially impressed with how my eggs were cooked to perfection—a rarity in many places—and the house-made salsa added an exceptional kick to the dishes. For those looking for a heartier meal, the Mannito Burrito was another winner, adding to the variety of well-executed options. The casual, cozy interior contributed to a welcoming vibe, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable. As someone who's been around the block, I can confidently say the omelette here is the best I've had, with a house-made salsa that's second to none in flavor and just the right spice level. They've also nailed the portion sizes, providing a satisfying meal without overwhelming you early in the day. Even the coffee was a cut above what you'd find elsewhere, and the blueberry pancakes were a hit with the little one at our table. I can't say enough about the quality of that omelette – it was simply phenomenal. Overall, Manny's Place delivered a wonderful brunch experience with A+ service and a menu that, while not overly complex, hit all the right notes with fresh, hot, and tasty dishes. I'm already looking forward to coming back and sampling their dinner offerings.

Little Jerry's

8233 Park Ave. S, Tacoma

(253) 474-2435

Reviewed by:

Vanice Waldon

I recently had a delightful brunch experience at Little Jerry's in Tacoma. Pulling up to the small strip center on a Tuesday morning, my wife and I were initially surprised by the restaurant's modest size. Inside, the quirky Seinfeld theme immediately set a fun atmosphere, enhanced by episodes playing on two flat-screen TVs. I kicked things off with a cup of black coffee, which, admittedly, wasn't my favorite. For those who love their brew rich and robust, you might want to pass on this one. However, the food more than made up for it. My wife's biscuits and gravy were a hit - the biscuits were soft, not dry, and came smothered in a hearty, savory sausage gravy. Topped with cheese, her scrambled eggs were cooked just right. My own plate of scrambled eggs, cottage potatoes, bacon, and sourdough toast was satisfying. The eggs were well-prepared, the potatoes were plentiful and tasty, and the bacon had that perfect balance of flavor and crispness. Brunch at Little Jerry's felt like a fresh, home-cooked meal. Despite a small mishap with a burrito that was a bit too greasy for my liking, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the Pigman sandwich. The restaurant's Seinfeld theme is a total gem for fans of the show, but even if you're not familiar with Jerry and the gang, the food alone is worth the visit. The affordability of Little Jerry's is another plus. The portions are generous, the food tastes wonderful, and the menu is full of appealing options. While service was on the slower side, the hosts were fantastic, and the outdoor seating provided a pleasant dining experience on a sunny day - though the retro picnic tables were a bit uncomfortable. Overall, it was a positive visit with mostly delicious food that truly hit the spot. Despite one greasy setback, I'm eager to return and sample more of what Little Jerry's has to offer for both breakfast and lunch. It's a spot that's definitely worth checking out.

Art House Cafe

111 N Tacoma Ave, Tacoma

(253) 212-2011

Reviewed by:

Natalie Ngoya

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Art House Cafe for brunch in Tacoma, and I must say, it was an absolute delight! The moment I stepped in, I was taken by the high-class service and the friendly staff who greeted us warmly. The standout feature, though, has to be the creative and gourmet style of the food – every bite was simply delicious! The loud atmosphere was the only downside, but it's a minor quibble when you’re being served such magnificent food. I'm already eager to go back and continue exploring the menu. It's a shame they don't offer dinner service; I can imagine how wonderful that would be. The food truly was worth the wait, and while it did take some time due to what seemed like a shortage of servers, the brioche French toast and the sandwich were definitely highlights. The stuffed biscuits were equally impressive. Even when there was a small hiccup with the hostess losing our name on the waitlist, the worthwhile flavors made up for it. They were also particularly considerate of my gluten and dairy sensitivities, which I greatly appreciated – no adverse reactions at all. And let's not forget about the coffee – absolutely good to the last drop! I must commend the Italian-style eggs benedict with prosciutto, pesto, and polenta – a unique twist that was utterly enjoyable. The mushroom pizza, loaded with a variety of mushrooms, tasted fresh and was perfectly topped. The attentive service by our server, who gracefully helped us split our meals, added to the experience. I highly recommend the Art House Cafe for anyone looking for a top-notch brunch spot in Tacoma. The food is excellent and sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Cooks Tavern

3201 N 26th St, Tacoma

(253) 327-1777

Reviewed by:

Teresa Richardson

I recently had brunch at Cooks Tavern in Tacoma, and as always, the experience was fantastic. I'm a big fan of their seasonal menu that brings flavors from all over the world, and this time I got to try three dishes from the Dominican Republic. Each one was delicious. The staff was great, and the food was top-notch. After a fun day at a local Fantasy faire with friends, we decided to grab some lunch here. We did notice the waiters appearing a bit judgmental and there were a few stares from other customers, but it didn't detract much from the overall nice atmosphere. The South American hash dish I ordered was fresh, rich, and incredibly flavorful. It was so filling, and every bite was a delight. I'm already excited to come back to try more from the menu. Our group of six enjoyed every dish we ordered, but I have to say, the rubbed pork chop stood out for its perfect cook and seasoning. And the brown bag special on the wine was an amazing deal – a $43 bottle of wine for just $19! I must mention that although the biscuits were a tad dry, they weren't bad, and the Mimosas were delicious. Overall, it's a cute spot for a nice Sunday brunch, and I'm looking forward to my next visit.

Dirty Oscar's Annex

2309 6th Ave, Tacoma

(253) 572-0588

Reviewed by:

Ivan Borrowes

Y'all, Dirty Oscar's Annex is where it's at for brunch in Tacoma. This place checks all the boxes for me: amazing food, solid drinks, and sharp service—plus, it's a 21+ haven, so make sure you've got your ID handy. The menu's got plenty of choices, and they're cool about making changes to dishes. I'm not into pork, so a spot that's willing to swap things out is a gem in my eyes. I kicked things off with the Parmesan Tots—pure cheesy, potato-y genius. I could eat those tots day in, day out, no kidding. Then came the main event: Steak and fritz, with garlic butter steak cooked to a perfect medium, and a side of scrambled cheese eggs that disappeared off my plate in a hot minute. Those eggs were something else, I had to order more to go! I also tried the chicken and waffles, and folks, it was a Southern delicacy done right, even up here in the Pacific Northwest. The staff treated us like old friends, always there with a refill or a laugh. The vibe was welcoming, and even with a steady crowd, the service didn't skip a beat. As for the parking, it's a street-parking situation, so you might have to hunt for a spot. Putting it all together—this place is a win. I'm already planning my next visit; those tots are calling my name. The staff rocks, the atmosphere is upbeat, and the food is top-notch. And don't even get me started on how good their spicy Bloody Mary and moonshine cocktails are. In all honesty, the only downside was this loud bang from a door near our table that kept making me jump. But hey, I can overlook that for food and service this good. Definitely will be back for more.

Alfred's Cafe

402 Puyallup Ave, Tacoma

(253) 627-5491

Reviewed by:

Cristian Cruz

I've always had a soft spot for Alfred's Cafe, a gem in Tacoma that I was introduced to by my grandparents. It boasts a robust menu that never disappoints and a service that's second to none. There's a convenient parking lot right on the side, which is always a plus, and they even have a full bar for anyone looking for a nice cocktail with their meal. This spot has truly become a family favorite, especially for brunch. No matter when we go, the service is speedy, the staff is super welcoming, and the food is out of this world. The 'Meat Lovers Benedict' is a personal highlight and probably one of the best meals I've ever had. On my last visit, I tried the French toast with scrambled eggs and sausage links, and it was delicious. I've got my eye on the breakfast burritos for next time. I've been to Alfred's twice now, and it's consistently excellent in both food and service. The drinks are also noteworthy – they've managed to impress me with those as well. Alfred's is always on the list when family breakfast outings come around.

Marcia's Silver Spoon Cafe

2601 S Tacoma Way, Tacoma

(253) 472-0157

Reviewed by:

Lorraine Gabrys

I stumbled upon Marcia's Silver Spoon Cafe for brunch and I've got to say, it's a hidden gem in Tacoma. It's this cozy, old-school American diner that just gives off the best vibes. I finally understand why my friend couldn't stop going on about their omelets. I opted for Marcia's Ultimate Omelete and let me tell you, it's loaded with onions, peppers, cheese, and you can add various meats. I chose ham, sausage, and bacon and was blown away by the amount of food. It was like getting two meals in one! The pumpkin pancakes, they were simply a flavor explosion – you've got to try these. And you can't go wrong with their hash browns either; perfectly crispy. Plus, they've got this sweet deal where you get a 10% discount if you pay in cash which pretty much cancels out the sales tax. Definitely, I'll be coming back to this place, maybe to try the burgers I've heard so much about. And it's not just for the food; the service is fantastic too. Even on our first visit, we felt like regulars. We usually like to grab breakfast after church, and Marcia's has been a wonderful addition to our routine. They serve up the best biscuits and gravy my husband has had since moving to the area, and the French toast? It can be ordered just how you like it – I went with two pieces, loaded with butter and powdered sugar, no syrup, and they nailed it. Though I do have to say, my latest visit wasn't as impressive. I ordered minced ham and scrambled eggs and the eggs were more chopped than scrambled, which was a letdown. But overall, Marcia's Silver Spoon Cafe is still top-notch in my book and definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a hearty breakfast or lunch in Tacoma.

Waffle Stop

2710 N Proctor St, Tacoma

(253) 237-7476

Reviewed by:

Denise Santacruz

I recently had a fantastic brunch experience at Waffle Stop in Tacoma. Right off the bat, the best waffles I've ever had! I chose the hearty waffle bowl with chicken that was the perfect blend of crispy and juicy. My friend and I also shared a sweet pumpkin pie waffle, and it was simply amazing. This place really lives up to its reputation. Everything was top-notch, from the ambiance to the little details. Even the bathrooms were immaculate, which says a lot about a place. The staff was incredibly friendly and the service was quick without making us feel rushed. I was particularly impressed with the Pearl waffle - it had perfectly crispy edges and a delicious caramelized taste. This spot has definitely become my new go-to for breakfast in Tacoma, and I can’t wait to come back and try more of their menu. If you're in the area and craving a solid waffle brunch, Waffle Stop is the place to go!

Elmer's Restaurant (Tacoma, WA)

7427 S Hosmer St, Tacoma

(253) 473-0855

Reviewed by:

Mike Pippitt

I recently had brunch at Elmer's Restaurant in Tacoma, and I must say, it was a very pleasant experience. The place has a comfortable, cozy vibe, especially with a fireplace that's just perfect for those chilly 30°F mornings. The menu is quite extensive, offering a lot of choices for everyone. Our server was fantastic - attentive, friendly, and making sure we always had fresh refills. I decided to go for the chicken fried steak bowl, which was simply delicious. For the first time, I tried a German pancake and was pleasantly surprised; it’s definitely something I’ll order again. I'm usually not adventurous with my food choices, but the potato pancakes caught my eye. They were filled with tasty bits of onions, bacon, cheese, and packed with flavor. The crispy, cheesy edges were the best part, even though the portion was so generous that I couldn't finish it all because it came alongside eggs and three sausage links. And the side pancake was pretty good too. My husband had the crab omelette, which was generously stuffed with crab, and he particularly enjoyed the hollandaise sauce, noting that it was lighter than what you usually get elsewhere. Our server was really nice, keeping our coffee cups filled and letting us know the status of our order, especially since the place was quite busy. The staff was diverse and created a friendly and welcoming environment. I appreciated that. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day, which is great for anyone craving a specific meal at any time. This would be a good spot for a large group, although the decor is simple and unassuming - they clearly focus more on delivering great food than on the aesthetics of the place. All in all, Elmer's offers great food paired with good service, which is why I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a solid brunch spot in Tacoma. 👍

Le Sel Bistro

229 St Helens Ave, Tacoma

(253) 327-1015

Reviewed by:

Kaci Cruz

I recently discovered Le Sel Bistro for brunch, and I must say, it quickly stole my heart. The bistro has this incredible cozy vibe that just sets you at ease the moment you walk in. The French-inspired menu is absolutely stunning – it's clear that they pour a lot of love into their dishes. I treated myself to their banana French toast, and it was nothing short of heavenly, while my partner enjoyed a steak Benedict that was equally as impressive. The service deserves a shout-out too. The staff, from the server to the bartender, couldn't have been friendlier. I even got a sweet surprise for my 30th birthday – a cinnamon roll and a pastry neatly boxed up for me to savor later. It's little touches like that which make a place stand out. Waiting for a table was a breeze, probably because the whole ambiance is so relaxing. Sitting by the window with the sun streaming in and a view of the water certainly didn't hurt either. Every dish we tried was spot-on. The Croque Madam, with a thick slice of Brioche and perfectly cooked sunny side egg, was a texture dream come true. The Bagel & Nova with its flavorful smoked salmon, whipped cream cheese, and caper berries was another hit. Honestly, it's hard not to keep raving about the place. There are so many things I still want to try! Even the setting is charming, particularly the garden balcony which offers some wonderful views, though it's worth noting that indoor seating is 21+ and there aren't any high chairs available. But those minor points won't deter me from coming back. Le Sel Bistro has become my new go-to brunch spot, and I'm already looking forward to my next visit.

The Original Pancake House

601 S Pine St, Tacoma

(253) 212-0580

Reviewed by:

Cluz Palacios

I recently had brunch at The Original Pancake House in Tacoma, and I've got to say, it really hit the spot. The restaurant has a charming old-school feel with a backdrop of 20th-century music that adds to the ambiance. While the food was tasty, and definitely the highlight of my visit, I did notice that the service could use a bit of polish. Refills on water or juice weren't offered, and we had to ask the staff to clear some plates, which was a bit of an inconvenience. The cleanliness of the bathrooms was acceptable, though there were a couple of issues with broken fixtures and some graffiti. Despite these minor setbacks, the place felt clean, scoring a decent 3.5 out of 5 in my book. On the brighter side, every visit to this location has generally met my expectations with really good customer service. The food is consistently delicious, making it a solid choice for breakfast or lunch. I appreciate how attentive the waitstaff are, frequently checking in to make sure everything's satisfactory and that nothing's missing from our table. As someone who's not from around here, it was important for me to find a spot that wasn't your typical chain restaurant for breakfast. I'm happy to say that my meal here felt home-cooked, and the staff were friendly and efficient. The next time I'm visiting Tacoma, I'll definitely be coming back. The crepes are a must-try, and the potatoes that came with my eggs Benedict were spot on. Just a heads up, parking can be a little tricky here, but it's a small price to pay for such enjoyable fare.

Shakabrah

2618 6th Ave, Tacoma

(253) 572-2787

Reviewed by:

Donna Kyne

I had such an enjoyable time having brunch at Shakabrah in Tacoma! The place pulsates with life and a cool, vibrant energy – definitely not the spot for a quiet meal, but who needs silence when you're served up such a fantastic experience? The base noise was a bit loud making conversation tricky, but that's just a testament to how popular this spot is. The food? Absolutely mouthwatering. With a funky, artsy atmosphere and plenty of space to settle in, it's clear why there's a buzzing crowd here. And no worries about parking; it's a breeze, which is always a plus in my book. The service was quick and friendly, making you feel right at home with their home-cooked tasting delights. They have a wide selection on their menu, yet breakfast items seem to be where they truly shine. I mean, their Famous Potatoes lived up to their name and then some! It's clear that Shakabrah is a hit with the younger crowd and families alike, especially during the weekdays. Opting for self-service was a breeze, although I noticed the full-service looked equally efficient. Prices are what you'd expect in the current times, and I feel they're totally worth it for the quality and portion sizes. However, there was a little hiccup – I was craving their loaded burrito and asked for it to be filled with everything, but they missed the mark by leaving out the potatoes. That was disappointing, especially since I had to reassemble it myself later on. Despite this small setback, I'd still give Shakabrah a big thumbs up for a fun and tasty brunch experience in Tacoma.

Hob Nob Restaurant

716 6th Ave, Tacoma

(253) 272-3200

Reviewed by:

Marco Walker

I had a really great experience with brunch at Hob Nob Restaurant in Tacoma. Let me tell you, their Hob Nob chicken biscuits completely won me over - I liked them so much I ordered them again on my second visit! Not only that, but my best friend was all about their eggs Benedict, and I have to say, they looked amazing. Of course, brunch isn't complete without a good mimosa, and theirs hit the spot with fresh squeezed orange juice that made it taste even better. We even indulged in a waffle topped with strawberries and whipped cream to share after our meal, and it was the cherry on top of a perfect brunch. We went on a busy Sunday, and admittedly, there was quite a wait, more than 20 minutes. But it gave us time to check out the menu which was chock-full of options. Honestly, I had a moment where I was overwhelmed with choices and worried I might be missing out on other delicious dishes. The restaurant is right across from Wright Park, which was an ideal spot for a walk after eating all that great food. Even with the bustling atmosphere, we were seated pretty quickly and the service was friendly and attentive. All in all, I'd say Hob Nob is a must-visit for brunch when you're in Tacoma. It's got a great vibe and even better food that'll leave you planning your next trip back.

Bite

1320 Broadway, Tacoma

(253) 591-4151

Reviewed by:

Amber Silvestri

I had a really nice time at Bite for brunch here in Tacoma. We got seated right away, which was great. There was a short wait for our server to show up but once that was sorted, the service turned out to be quick and really on point. My cappuccino hit the spot, and while my breakfast sandwich was a bit on the dry side, it was still pretty tasty. A little extra something like tomato could make it even better next time. Those breakfast potatoes, though, were packed with flavor – seriously good stuff! My husband enjoyed his waffle and tea, and when it came time to pay, our bill arrived in no time. You can tell it's a hotel restaurant from the prices and the selection, which makes sense because they've got to be ready for however many guests they have on any given day. There was a small mishap with my drink having something on the glass, but it wasn't a big deal. The crab and artichoke dip was just okay, but the bread it came with was really nicely done. And even though my garlic fries were missing the garlic, the wagyu burger made up for it – cooked perfectly to my liking. My wife's salad wasn't the freshest, but hey, that happens sometimes. The place has a bit of a dark ambiance, which didn't really encourage us to stick around for dessert, but the overall vibe was still comfy and the air felt clean. It's a pretty solid choice for a hotel eatery. The wine choices are few, but what they do have is good, and I'd definitely come back, especially if I was staying at the hotel. And let's not forget the overall atmosphere – the hotel's got style and so does the restaurant. You get great service, nice views, and the food is top-notch. The salads and sandwiches are fresh and tasty. So if you're around downtown Tacoma, take the time to visit this spot on the 4th floor of the Murano Hotel. It's worth the trip!

Southern Kitchen

1716 6th Ave, Tacoma

(253) 627-4282

Reviewed by:

Lenis Gadson

I recently had brunch at Southern Kitchen in Tacoma and it honestly felt like a journey through a rich cultural landscape. The vibe of the place was super relaxed, despite the not-so-comfy stools, but that was a small price to pay for being surrounded by fascinating historical pictures on the walls. For the first time, I tried catfish and I must say, it was a delightful experience. The rest of the breakfast items were tasty too. My son had the BBQ, which he thoroughly enjoyed, while my husband was quite pleased with his chicken fried steak. We all agreed that it's a spot we'd visit again. The place itself had a vintage charm to it, with friendly staff creating a cozy dining experience. It's family-owned, situated right on the busy intersection at Sprague & 6th Ave, making it a cornerstone of local Southern soul food. My meal was the Half Southern Fried Chicken dinner complete with sides and pancakes, and it was more than I could eat. The chicken was flavorful, though a tad dry for my taste. Having been featured on a famous food show, Southern Kitchen is arguably serving some of the best food in Tacoma. Each meal feels like a slice of heaven, especially the brisket and chicken with their perfect mix of juiciness and flavor. Sides like candied yams, mashed potatoes with gravy, and Mac and cheese stand out with their rich flavors. Top it off with a mason jar of sweet tea or lemonade, made with real fruit, and you've got yourself a meal to remember. What's more, Southern Kitchen has been a staple for over 40 years, consistently drawing folks in with their grits, corn cakes, chicken, and waffles. It's no wonder it's a go-to for celebs and food enthusiasts alike. If you're looking for straightforward, delicious food, this is the place. I can't recommend it enough.

Pacific Southern

3832 S Pine St, Tacoma

(253) 474-9898

Reviewed by:

Maria Kaur

I recently went for brunch at Pacific Southern in Tacoma, on 38th St, and I must say, it was quite a pleasant experience. The staff there were incredibly friendly – our server stood out with her attentiveness, making sure we had everything we needed. The food was tasty with those generous portion sizes that make you feel you're really getting your money's worth. The place offers a great selection of Southern favorites like catfish, chicken and waffles, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The ambiance is nice too, with plenty of natural light streaming in at the front – though they also have a bar area in the back if you prefer a darker, more secluded setting. I appreciated how their menu embraced the Southern theme, and the prices seemed perfectly reasonable for the quality and quantity of food. I chose the Shrimp and Grits for $17.95, and it didn't take long to arrive at our table. While I found the dish a bit too peppery for my taste, the house-made biscuits were an absolute delight. The building itself is on the smaller side, so my group ended up sitting at the back, but it wasn't a big issue. The family enjoyed the well-seasoned and perfectly cooked chicken, although the chicken dinner with collard greens and beans was reported to be a bit spicy. I did notice a few cracks in some of the cups, and the silverware could definitely use more polishing, but these were minor points in an otherwise enjoyable visit. All in all, if you're in the area and in the mood for a hearty Southern-style breakfast, Pacific Southern offers solid service and good food. I would definitely recommend giving it a try – just maybe give your table a quick once-over when you sit down.

Grit City Breakfast Bar and Grill

3829 6th Ave, Tacoma

(253) 533-3840

Reviewed by:

Seth Santucci

I've been meaning to try out Grit City Breakfast Bar and Grill for brunch, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait. The service was top-notch; the staff was welcoming and attentive, ensuring my experience was a good one right from the moment I walked in. The food was absolutely delicious with portions that were more than generous for the price – talk about getting your money's worth! The prices were pretty great too, which is always a plus in my book. I'm definitely planning on making this a regular brunch spot. I managed to snap a few pics of the menu, the mimosa flight, and the avocado toast with smothered potatoes, all of which were as tasty as they were photogenic. Unfortunately, we devoured the burrito and bagel sandwich too quickly to take photos – they were just that good! Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and I can't wait to go back. If you find yourself in Tacoma and in the mood for a hearty brunch, Grit City Breakfast Bar and Grill is the place to go. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

The Greatroom

1538 Commerce Street First Floor, Tacoma

(253) 294-9200

Reviewed by:

Keerthi Maraffino

I recently headed to The Greatroom for brunch before catching Elton John at the Tacoma Dome, and I must say, despite the buzz from the event and Monday Night Football, their team managed to do a nice job. The atmosphere was lively, and it was just a short walk from the Link rail, which was super convenient, especially with access to their parking garage. The salad I ordered was fresh and enjoyable; I paired it with a lovely glass of wine, which set the tone for a relaxing meal. My entrée was equally satisfying — it hit the spot before the concert. While two of the staff members didn't speak English, which led to a bit of a wait to be seated, overall, the experience at the Greatroom was positive. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a good spot for brunch with easy access to public transportation and nearby events.

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