With our current nightlife scene continuing to bust at the seams with more and more places to nosh and sip, it’s easy to become attention deficit and get lured away from the places that really matter.



Well, Tacoma, leave it to me to stand on top of the bar and crack the whip to knock some sense into all of you.



I’m going to make sure you get to an establishment that’s got such a special place in my heart, and it always will:



Tempest Lounge.



You might squawk back at me and say that you already know all about this scrumptious martini haven with pin-up girl motifs, delicious food, alluring art and personalities like Teddy Haggarty who will draw up and offer sketches of your pretty little face (I have four on my refrigerator).



Tempest also remains as one of the crowning jewels that’s changing the face of the Hilltop for the better.



All of the above is true, but I’m here to tell you that Tempest is a-changin’ in ways you don’t know about and you should jet to Martin Luther King Jr. Way to pay attention.



First of all, Tempest removed their pool table. I know some of you billiard babies might shed a tear over that, but please understand that this has made way for additional tables and seating for all kinds of pretty people that we LOVE to look at in this establishment.



Reliable hours are a must for small businesses, and Tempest isn’t slouching there! They’ll be open until 1 a.m. and even better, they’ll be serving all of that great food until midnight. You readers KNOW that I love late-night eating, and whenever people like you and me patronize it, that’s a sign of a healthy, growing, local economy.



What’s more, Tempest will re-open on Sundays, but they’ll remain closed on Mondays.



Another recent Tempest addition that I’m elated about is something that you’ll want to mark on your calendar. On the third Thursday of every month, the very talented musician Kim Archer will offer an acoustic set. I stalk Kim on MySpace, and it’ll be so wonderful to see her on a regular basis.



Tempest will also be sprinkling in local house DJs on the weekends to get your booty groovin’. This Saturday you can rock the house with DJ Mr. Clean.



Then, on Feb. 27, Tempest will feature Dave Roberts, a local singer/songwriter. Nice!

I know it seems so far away, but those spring and summer nights that you and I adore to spend on Tempest’s awesome outdoor patio really are just around the corner. Until then, let these indoor activities fancy up your ears, delight your tummy, and taste so good going down.

Here’s to you, Tempest!



[Tempest Lounge, 913 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma, 253.272.4904]



Tell me where you like to party at sceneofthecrime@hotmail.com.