I’ve always said the earlier they open, the better the dive bar, right? I stopped by Pegasus Restaurant and Lounge at an early mark of 9:30 a.m. With my dive-bar radar, I located the stereotypical “side door” to the lounge. The front of the restaurant was a-hoppin’, but apparently the smoking ban has killed the business for the haven of wood paneling and leather cushioned barstools in the back portion known as the Unicorn Room.



Linda, who settled me in and gave me my menu, warmly greeted me almost immediately. I needed breakfast, I needed coffee, and I needed liquor in that coffee. That liquor’s not something you’re going to find at your pretty little IHOP now, are you?



I love this place. It’s a dive bar with a touch of Steph DeRosa class. Or is it the “dive” part that reflects a touch of Steph DeRosa? All I know is this place is a party waiting to happen. Plenty of seating, clean, close-knit atmosphere, great service, full menu for breakfast and lunch (homemade!), appetizers in the afternoon, pool table (I suck at pool), pull tabs, internet jukebox, and more liquor than even Dean Martin can handle. But don’t go in expecting to grab a cold draft beer, its bottle only, baby. Ranging from Rainer to Heineken, you can take your pick and add that early morning tomato juice concoction to your beverage.



Go in and take a look for yourself. Check out the world of faux oak, brass fixtures, and smoky glass. Sit back and listen to the men at the bar babble nonsense such as “Everyone’s my daddy!” And “I’m Miss Gerty!” You might even catch an asscrack or two. I know I did.

Pegasus Restaurant and Lounge

Food: wonderful and homemade

Service: friendly, welcoming, and I will definitely go back

Bar Exam Dive Grade: B+



[Pegasus Restaurant and Lounge, 1320 Puyallup Ave., Tacoma, 253.572.5300]