There’s huge dive bar territory over in the Parkland/Spanaway area that I have yet to uncover, and man, it’s a freakin’ gold mine up in that ’hood. It literally gets my heart racing as I think of the trashy possibilities that lie upon Pacific Highway and its surrounding streets.

For years I’ve heard Mr. DeRosa rave about the chicken at 2121 Tavern in the Midland area (off 112th and Portland Avenue). Since fried chicken has never been my first choice when dining out, I never gave it much though. But when I drove up to finally meet some friends out for a few 2121 Tavern drinks I was immediately impressed by the disheveled exterior and patchwork parking lot. I parked in what I’m assuming was a parking space between some gravel and a pothole, and ducked into the infamous local chicken shack.

YES, this place is a dive. NO, it is not a scary one. The servers are young, attractive females who seem to have all their teeth. The demographic is that of either a dirty manual laborer wearing a safety orange sweatshirt, or a senior citizen. No, wait, I lie. Apparently 2121 Tavern is also a hot spot for Pierce County employees trying to escape “The Man.”

Pull tabs, carpeting, pool tables, darts, mass neon beer signage, and more than 11 televisions had me thinking this place is rockin’ come football Sundays. By the look of the menu, I’m pretty sure I’m dead-on correct with that assumption. Where else can you find an egg breakfast for less than $4? Don’t say Shari’s or I’ll hurt you. I’m talking about a good, homemade breakfast. Just like your grandma used to make — and I know that for a fact because your grandma was there and she told me.

2121 Tavern

2121 112th St. E., Tacoma, 253.536.2100

Service: friendly and attentive
Food: Expect to wait 45 minutes for the BEST fried chicken you’ve ever had.
Beer: 15 on tap

Bar Exam Dive Grade: A