The Best of the South Sound is now in its fourth year. This comprehensive list is full of your favorites and includes repeat winners and businesses that are new to the scene.
Food & Drink
Best Restaurant
4107 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor
Last year’s reader’s choice for Best New Restaurant, JW has proven it’s no longer a newcomer on the South Sound restaurant scene. The downtown Gig Harbor eatery is elegant and hospitable, offering honey-almond prawns and other entrées such as spring lamb meatloaf —and don’t forget the dark chocolate decadence torte.
Best Lunch
1938 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
The Harmon’s express lunch menu is delicious and affordable — all items are $8.99. Enjoy items like the Harmon fishwich featuring fresh Alaskan cod or the tender beef pot roast. A 10-ounce Flasghip beer is just $1 on weekdays.
Best Breakfast/Brunch
7806 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor
Kelly’s is dependably delicious, serving breakfast all day, every day. The café offers all the usual breakfast suspects, like the pancake breakfast, egg scrambles and a myriad of omelets, along with some special dishes, such as Kelly’s Green Eggs & Ham, made with pesto, and the hometown favorite Crab Cake Benedict. One bite and it’s easy to see why Kelly’s is a local favorite.
Best Wine Shop
1001 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
Sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of your favorite wine. Whether you’re having an intimate meal or hosting a party at Vinum Coffee and Wine Lounge, you’re sure to be satisfied with their wide range of drinks.
Best Dessert
2811 Bridgeport Way W., University Place
This bakery certainly makes cakes, truffles, cupcakes, cheesecake, pies and tortes an affair to remember. The bakery seems to offer every dessert imaginable, but you can’t beat their huge array of specialty cakes. From endless chocolate cake to cranberry raspberry torte and more, as well as wedding cakes.
Best Chef
Bill Trudnowski, Adriatic Grill
4201 S. Steele St., Tacoma
Chef Bill Trudnowski has an impressive background as a chef in the Seattle-Tacoma area, where he has worked for more than 20 years. He is honored again with the award for Best Chef, thanks to his hard work and skillful cooking at Adriatic Grill, where Italian cuisine reigns and good wine flows under his watchful eye.
Best Service
2119 Pacific Ave., Tacoma,
El Gaucho has a history of great tableside service, and under general manager James Capangpangan, the restaurant has earned its prize with friendly, efficient assistance.
Best Burger
4701 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Gig Harbor
Blazing Onion is a quintessential burger joint in all its juicy glory. Their inventive list of burger combinations offers just about everything, from the All-American Burger to the Thai Peanut Burger and beyond. Get your fix with a 1/3-pound burger, or substitute turkey, veggie patty, chicken breast, lamb, buffalo or wild boar. The possibilities are endless at Blazing Onion — just like the French fries.
Best Kid-Friendly
4911 Tacoma Mall Blvd., Tacoma
With games, rides, prizes and food, Chuck E. Cheese is a favorite of every child.
Best Winery
2621 N. 21st St., Tacoma
This urban boutique winery combines tradition and innovation when making their Washington wine. They are always expanding their collection and their fan base keeps growing, too.
Best Pizza
6430 6th Ave., Tacoma
The Cloverleaf has been around since 1950, and continues to serve pitch-perfect pizza. Its pies feature a signature thin crust, fresh ingredients and flavorful red sauce.
Best Sushi
1125 Court C #1, Tacoma
Sushi is an art form as well as a culinary delicacy and Fujiya strikes this balance just right. For more than 26 years, its sushi and rolls have been a local favorite. Don’t miss the all-you-can-eat sushi from 5-9 pm, Mon.-Thurs.
Best Drive-In
1201 Division Ave., Tacoma
Frisko Freeze is a true Tacoma institution. The drive-in has been offering classic burgers, milkshakes and fries for more than 60 years and the time-tested recipes guarantee satisfaction.
Best Vegetarian
2717 6th Ave., Tacoma
Marrow features delicious and innovative vegetarian dishes. Try the green curry lentils or the flavorful Arrow slider duo. The meaty side of the menu makes it a great place to find something for everyone.
Best New Restaurant
2717 6th Ave., Tacoma
Marrow has combined up-and-coming recipes with a visionary style. Good food plus a trendy feel has helped Marrow stand above the rest according to South Sound readers.
Best Hole in the Wall
2220 6th Ave., Tacoma
These Magical Sandwich Makers have earned their epithet. It may not look like much from outside, but that is part of the charm of MSM, where it’s simply impossible to be disappointed.
Best Sandwich
2220 6th Ave., Tacoma, msmdeli.com
Choose from MSM’s select sandwiches, East Coast menu and daily specials, or create your own sub. Try a BBC (beef, bacon and cheddar), an Italian cold cut or a classic Reuben.
Best Coffee Shop
Various locations
South Sound readers like to get their caffeine fixes at Starbucks.
Best Bakery
510 6th Ave., Tacoma
Corina Bakery is another local favorite. They offer every baked good imaginable, all made from scratch, and often available in vegan or gluten-free versions. Low-sugar and soy-free options are available, too. The award-winning bakery also makes cakes for every occasion, including weddings.
Best Bar/Lounge
2925 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor
This old favorite has been voted Best Bar/Lounge yet again by South Sound readers. With famous clam chowder and fish and chips; perfect brews; classic pizzas, burgers and sandwiches and a panorama of the water, Tides Tavern is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the brew — and view.
Best Sweets
510 6th Ave., Tacoma
One glance at their website will have your mouth watering for fresh pie, cake, cheesecake, cookies or brownies. Try their magic bar or Tacoma tiramisu for something special.
Best Chinese
Multiple locations
South Sound readers say Hunan Garden is the top pick for Chinese food. Don’t miss their specialty walnut prawns, seafood basket and Peking duck.
Best Thai
3401 6th Ave. #F, Tacoma
From college students to families, Silk Thai is the top choice for Thai in Tacoma, according to readers. The menu offers everything you could want in a Thai restaurant, the atmosphere is inviting and the food is delicious.
Best Barbeque
1901 S. 72nd St., Tacoma
Famous Dave’s meats are smoked daily, rubbed with secret seasonings and special sauces and served up with cornbread and two sides.
Best Italian
4201 S. Steele St., Tacoma
Pesto steamed clams, caprese salad, Parmigiano-Reggiano crusted tilapia and desserts like chocolate volcano cake and cheesecake alla Adriatic — it’s no wonder South Sound readers voted it the best.
Best happy hour
115 East 34th St., Tacoma, 253.473.7300
Items like grilled teriyaki tenderloins and French dip sliders pair nicely with Stanley and Seaforts $4 specialty cocktails, Monday to Friday, 3-6pm and pm to close.
Best Brewery
3207 57th St. Ct. N.W., Gig Harbor
Brewmaster Travis Guterson seeks harmony between the ingredients of his brews, concocting beers with character. 7 Seas offers four house brews, along with many seasonal picks. Its smooth beer is right on the mark and the establishment even practices green policies to protect the environment.
Best Steak
2119 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
It can’t get much better than the perfect steak, and El Gaucho has reached that ideal. With many different preparation styles and high-quality meat, your only dilemma will be which dish to order. Try the classic filet mignon or New York steak, or go for the Steak El Gaucho, a filet served with Maine lobster medallions and asparagus.
Health & Beauty
Best Hospital
1717 S. J St., Tacoma
St. Joseph, the main hospital of Franciscan Health System, boasts the largest heart and vascular center in the South Sound.
Best Spa
1320 Broadway Plaza, Suite A, Tacoma
Whether you’re celebrating with friends or indulging in alone time, Savi Day Spa inside Hotel Murano has something that will relax and rejuvenate you.
Best Doctor
Dr. Robert Emerick, Choice Cardiovascular
4423 Point Fosdick, Dr. N.W., Gig Harbor
Dr. Emerick founded Choice Cardiovascular in 2009 with a dedication to Direct Practice, a private medicine approach that puts patients first.
Best Dentist
Dr. Eric Kvinsland, Kvinsland Dentistry
5122 Olympic Dr. N.W., Suite A-201, Gig Harbor
It’s a family affair at Kvinsland Dentistry, where Dr. Eric Kvinsland works with his father, Dr. Jon Kvinsland, to provide family dental care.
Best Naturopath
Anna Colombini, ND
Peninsula Naturopathic Clinic in Gig Harbor and Serenity Spa & Natural Health Clinic in Tacoma
Dr. Colombini practices primary care for the entire family. She specializes in women’s health and allergies, using holistic processes.
Best Physical Therapist
Alika Antone, One to One Physical Therapy
2312 N. 30th St., Suite 101, Tacoma
A Tacoma native, Dr. Antone has extensive physical therapy and sports experience.
Best Eye Care
Various locations
Cascade Eye and Skin Center provides eye care and surgery, and has been serving the South Sound since 1995.
Best Pediatrician
Dr. John Clapper, Pediatrics Northwest
James Center Office, 1628 S. Mildred, Suite 101, Tacoma,
Dr. Clapper has practiced at Pediatrics Northwest for more than 20 years.
Best Orthodontist
1950 S. Cedar St., Suite D., Tacoma
Dr. Knight is a diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics and an affiliate assistant professor in the orthodontics department at the University of Washington.
Best ob/gyn
Dr. Karen Nelson, Commencement Health Obstetrics & Gynecology
Commencement Health, Tacoma, 253.582.5141
This is the third Best of the South Sound honor for Dr. Karen Nelson who has delivered more than 5,000 babies.
Best Salon
2701 N. Proctor St, Tacoma and 1912 65th Ave. W., Tacoma
Fox Fire follows the celebrated Aveda technique at its two Tacoma salons.
Best Cosmetic Surgeon
Dr. Justin Piasecki, Harbor Plastic Surgery Center
11511 Canterwood Blvd. N.W., Suite 310, Gig Harbor
Dr. Piasecki has studied and practiced across the country and is a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Best Place to Buy Beauty Products
Tacoma Mall, 4502 S. Steele St., Tacoma
Sephora is your one-stop shop for beauty products.
Best Tanning
Various locations
Get golden at Desert Sun Tanning. They offer sunbed tanning, sunless spray tanning and cocktail tanning, which mixes the first two for a longer-lasting glow.
Best Personal Trainer
Jennifer Nerio, Taiso Fitness & Nutrition
5104 6th Ave. #110, Tacoma
Voted best of the South Sound for three years running, Jennifer Nerio is a successful one-on-one and small-group trainer. She works with members at Taiso Fitness.
Best Chiropractor
Dr. Jason Stockton, Tacoma Family Chiropractic
1033 N. Tacoma Ave., Tacoma
Dr. Stockton receives the honor of Best Chiropractor once again from South Sound readers for his outstanding service.
Best Yoga
2712 N. 21st St., Tacoma; 6720 Regents Blvd. Suite 102, University Place
Source Yoga offers classes, family yoga, workshops, special events and retreats.
Best Workout
1105 Regents Blvd #G, Fircrest
You’ll come away from your workout sweaty and satisfied.
Best Mani/Pedi
7 N. Tacoma Ave., Tacoma
La Bella became an instant community favorite when it opened in 2008.
Best Gym
1105 Regents Blvd. #G, Fircrest
Innovative Fitness provides one-on-one personal training, group training, sports training and bodybuilding, as well as nutritional analysis, body composition assessment and weight loss assistance. With experienced personal trainers and a state-of-the-art facility, Innovative Fitness can help you on your way to optimal health.
Fashion & Retail
Best Department Store
Tacoma Mall, 4502 S. Steele St., Tacoma
If you aren’t already a dedicated Nordie’s shopper, you’ll quickly become a convert after stepping inside the top-of-the-line department store.
Best Boutique
1006 Main St., Sumner
For friendly service, fun product lines like Vera Bradley and Baggalini and great accessories and accents, visit A Picket Fence, one of the best-kept secrets of the South Sound, according to readers.
Best Shoe Store
Tacoma Mall, 4502 S. Steele St., Tacoma
From Jimmy Choo to Tom’s, pumps to clogs and running shoes to sandals, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Nordstrom’s shoe department.
Best Men’s Clothier
Tacoma Mall, 4502 S. Steele St., Tacoma
What more can we say about Nordstrom? Whether you want a classic suit or casual wear, you’ll find it at Nordstrom.
Best Baby Store
Various locations
Strollers, toys, cribs, Babies ‘R’ Us has it all.
Best Thrift Store
714 S. 27th St., Tacoma
Find a bargain and help the environment by buying used at Goodwill.
Best Local Designer
Alexander designs classically beautiful jewelry. She is also known for her sustainable yoga line of clothing and jewelry called Nutti Yogini.
Best Jewelry
4218 South Steele St. #100, Tacoma
Whether you’re proposing, celebrating or simply indulging, Kantor Diamond Co. has something for everyone.
Best Antique Store
743 Broadway, Tacoma
Sanford & Sons has been one of the best places to hunt for treasures in the South Sound since 1985, with three floors and 20 shops in its downtown Tacoma building.
Best Bookstore
Various locations
Get lost in the stacks at Barnes and Noble, where you can find the latest bestsellers, fiction, nonfiction, magazines — including South Sound!
Best Bridal Shop
2914 6th Ave., Tacoma
The Wedding Bell has accumulated many honors during its 67 years in business and now they can add one more to the list. Head to their Très Chic shop down the street to find everything else you need to dress your wedding party.
Travel & Recreation
Best Golf Course
6320 Grandview Dr. W., University Place
Chambers Bay is set against the backdrop of the Puget Sound and boasts a traditional links-style layout. The course is walking only, and it will play host to the 2015 U.S. Open Championship.
Best Northwest Travel
It’s nearly impossible to equal the majesty of Mount Rainier, and we’re lucky enough to find it right in our backyard.
Best Bed and Breakfast
502 9th St. S.W., Puyallup
Hedman House feels like home away from home.
Best Kid-Friendly Destination
Various locations
Entering Red Robin is like stepping into the big top at a circus. The fun, friendly atmosphere makes for a perfect family night out, and the kids’ menu offers classic favorites.
Best Hike
6320 Grandview Dr. W., University Place
For a great hike without a long drive, check out the walking trail that surrounds the golf course at Chambers Bay. The 3.25-mile loop offers green grass, views of the Sound and a few hills, as well as a path to the beach.
Best Park
5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma
Affectionately referred to as “Point D,” this park is sure to win you over. With a forest, beaches, zoo, aquarium, go-karts and batting cages, it offers more than enough entertainment for a day out.
Best Hotel
1320 Broadway Plaza #A, Tacoma
Plush rooms and conscientious service are promised at Hotel Murano, where world-class art decorates every floor and the amenities leave nothing to be desired.
Business & Services
Best Bank
Various locations
Ranked the best in Washington State by Forbes magazine, Columbia Bank is committed to its customers’ needs. Outstanding service and organization sets it above the rest according to South Sound readers, too.
Best Office Space
732 Broadway Suite 302, Tacoma
The office space at Rusty George Creative is lined with inspiration from wall to wall.
Best Small Business
Various locations
Looking for a swimming pool, hot tub, fireplace, barbecue or spa — local business Aqua Rec’s has you covered!
Best Large Business
Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community
1301 N. Highlands Parkway, Tacoma
Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community is known as one of the largest not-for-profit retirement communities in the Puget Sound. The community serves more than 600 seniors a year.
Best Lawyer
Amy Pagano, Harlowe & Falk LLP
1 Tacoma Ave. N., Suite 300, Tacoma
Amy Pagano is an attorney at Harlow & Falk specializing in business transactions and corporate law; real estate; trusts and estates; employment law; bank operations and regulatory compliance.
Best Financial Adviser
Marty Paul, Northwest Asset Management
253-358-7921
Marty Paul is the director of the private wealth group at Northwest Asset Management.
Best Credit Union
Washington State Employees Credit Union
9540 Bridgeport Way S.W., Lakewood
WSECU offers many services, good rates and ample help for planning your next financial endeavor.
Best Auto Repair
6602 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma
Import Auto Center offers many services and specializes in Honda and Acura repairs.
Best Auto Body Shop
6005 12th St. E., Fife
Paramount Centre boasts a team with more than 40 years’ experience and a high-tech facility. Their services will help get your car looking like new again.
Best Car Dealership
Various locations
Titus Will offers top service and a large selection and that’s what makes it the best dealership in the South Sound according to our readers.
Best Real Estate Agent
Heather Curry, Heather Curry Homes
Tacoma, WA 98409, 253.380.7523
Heather Curry is a broker with Action Real Estate and she is sure to help you find your dream property.
Kids
Best Summer Camp
9725 Cramer Road KPN, Gig Harbor
Camp Seymour provides a fun, healthy environment for kids.
Best Kids Date
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma
Who doesn’t love the Point Defiance Zoo? Spend a fun day with the kids seeing the animals. The zoo also offers summer camps for kids of all ages.
Best Birthday Party Place
5400 Martin Way E. Suite J, Lacey
Charlie’s Safari is a child’s paradise, with all kinds of attractions, including laser tag and arcade games.
Best High School
111 N. E St., Tacoma
Stadium High boasts good academics, sports and a beautiful campus.
Best Middle School
10414 56th St. N.W., Gig Harbor
Kopachuck Middle School has an exemplary educational program, including academic support resources, athletics and campus clubs.
Best Elementary School
6219 40th St. N.W., Gig Harbor
Artondale offers great K-5 education.
Best Preschool
2500 Shaw Rd., Puyallup
Celebration Friends Preschool prepares children 3 to 5 years for kindergarten.
Best Daycare
Our Inn-Spiration Daycare
5415 N. 43rd St., Tacoma, 253.756.6523
South Sound readers feel safe leaving their children at Our Inn-Spiration, where little ones are allowed to explore, learn and interact with other kids.
Best Teacher
Diane Haug, Shaw Road Elementary
1106 Shaw Rd., Puyallup
Diane Haug wins best teacher for the second year in a row for her outstanding work at Shaw Road Elementary.
Best Youth Group
Various locations
Young Life staff is dedicated to supporting kids and young adults and helping them to grow and mature.
Home & Garden
Best Landscaper
Olympic Landscape and Irrigation
4310 70th Ave. E., Fife
Olympic Landscape consistently produces beautiful landscaping design, and its professional staff is sure to help you realize your vision, whether for your business or your home.
Best Builder
253.310.7055
This small local business specializes in new construction as well as kitchen and bath and whole home remodels in the greater Tacoma area.
Best Architect
2607 N. Warner St., Tacoma
Specializing in custom residential design and small commercial design, Drager Architecture will help create your dream home, studio or office space.
Best Interior Designer
Cheryl Marshall Designs
706 Court A, Tacoma, 253.627.5065
Serving Tacoma since 1983, Cheryl Marshall & Associates offers exemplary interior design.
Best Remodeler
Daniel D. Martin Construction
1221 Point Fosdick Dr., N.W., Gig Harbor, 253.851.6434
Daniel D. Martin Construction in Gig Harbor has been serving clients for many years.
Best Hardware Store
Various locations
Ace is your best bet for your hardware needs, with a knowledgeable staff and a wide-range of products.
Best Garden Shop/Nursery
6211 Pioneer Way E., Puyallup
Watson’s offers a great variety, all the products you need for your garden and many gardening resources.
Best Place to Buy Appliances
Various locations
It looks like piling the family into the station wagon for a trip to Sears for a new washing machine is one practice that will never grow old.
Best Place to Buy Furniture
13608-A Valley Ave. E., Sumner
The Old Cannery has everything for each room of your house and great fudge, too!
Best Kitchen and Bath Designer
253.376.7935
Brett Marlo comes up with beautiful and functional designs for all kinds of spaces. Marlo brings expertise to every project, and even offers green design for an environmentally friendly space.
Arts & Entertainment
Best Museum
2702 E. D St., Tacoma
America’s Car Museum officials opened June 2, but readers voted it the best museum before they even experienced it. Talk about anticipation!
Best Festival
Gig Harbor Summer Art Festival
The Gig Harbor Summer Art Festival is a perfect way to spend a summer weekend. Local artists are invited to submit their art for consideration, and it is showcased in the festival in beautiful Gig Harbor.
Best NightClub
2803 6th Ave., Tacoma
Live music seven nights a week, delicious food and great happy hour deals on drinks — what’s not to love about Jazzbones?
Best Movie Theater
Various locations
When going out for a movie, you want to get what you pay for — cushy seats in a quality theater are a must.
Best Live Theater
210 N. I St., Tacoma
Tacoma Little Theatre has been providing quality community entertainment for almost a century.
Best Live Music Venue
1001 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
Vinum provides the perfect atmosphere to sit back and relax with a drink, some friends and live music. They also have open mike nights for the brave among us.
Best Casino
2024 E. 29th St., Tacoma; 5700 Pacific Highway E., Fife
When South Sounders feel lucky they head to the Emerald Queen. Or maybe it is the buffets they are after.
Best Family-Friendly Activity
5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offers fun for the whole family.
Best Band
Voted Best Band in the South Sound for the second year running, The Shy Boys specialize in acoustic rock from the ’70s and ’80s.
Best Artist
Julian Peña draws influence from Japanese painting, exploring its place in American culture with his brightly colored, fantastical scenes.
Best Art Gallery
3811 N. 26th St., Tacoma
Proctor Art Gallery features work by local artists.
Best Karaoke
3226 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor
Come sing your heart out at El Pueblito, where delicious food and good drinks will inspire you to have your moment in the spotlight.
Pets
Best Groomer
Tacoma’s Best Pet Grooming
3411 6th Ave. Suite E., Tacoma, 253.756.7385
It says it in the name — Tacoma’s Best Pet Grooming really is the best according to readers. Treat your pet to a spa treatment.
Best Vet
5916 6th Ave., Tacoma
Columbia Veterinary Hospital is the place you can trust to care for your pet.
Best Doggy DayCare
Our Best Friend Doggie DayCare
3303 Jahn Ave. N.W. No. 230, Gig Harbor
Only the best for man’s best friend! It offers a
cage-free fun environment for pups to play.
Best Pet Park
8714 87th Ave. S.W., Lakewood,
This fenced-in park is the perfect place to let your dog run. It has a separate small dog area.
Best Pet Store
Various locations
Mud Bay specializes in helping you figure out what kind of
food is right for your pet. They offer information, tips and solutions for all your pet’s problems and needs.
Your favorite local…
City
Tacoma
You can find food, art, music, nature and culture in Tacoma, a city with spirit, museums, theaters, parks, restaurants and more.
Celebrity
Kathi Goertzen, KOMO 4
Many community members know Kathi Goertzen from her 30-year career as news anchor, and now the community supports her in her fight against brain tumors. The Kathi Goertzen Foundation works to raise money for research on brain tumors and support for those affected.
Blog
Mike Curto, Tacoma Rainiers
Mike Curto keeps you updated on everything you need to know about the Tacoma Rainiers.
Nonprofit
7050 S. G St., Tacoma
Phoenix Housing Network assists low-income families, giving them somewhere to live and teaching them how to prevent homelessness. The organization helps Pierce County residents turn their lives around and get their families back on track.
From top: Tides Tavern image by Jeff Hobson, St. Joseph Medical Center image courtesy Franciscan Health System, Nordstrom image courtesy Nordstrom, Inc., Chambers Bay image by Martin Miller, Columbia Bank image courtesy Columbia Bank, YMCA Camp Seymour image by Oona Copperhill, Olympic Landscape image courtesy Olympic Landscape and Irrigation, LeMay and Tacoma’s Best Pet images by Ethan Chung, City of Tacoma image by Dane Gregory Meyer
pkm:
Way better chefs in the south sound than adriatic grill
Nick:
Camp Wright is by far the best camp in the south sound. I would like a recount.
Barb Collins:
Olalla Bluegrass and Beyond – Best Festival! Every year they bring on a full, colorful day of dazzling music and people of all ages come from all over to “kick the city off their shoes” and enjoy a beautiful day listening to one fine act after another from noon until dark. It’s a great time to recognize this festival. It is well-deserved!