Too often cheap pub grub means soggy nachos, cold fries, messy wings and other boring fried food. Not so at the Top of Tacoma — especially the nachos ($8.50). Served on a large baking sheet, it’s as if co-owner Jamie Kay Newton makes the ultimate nacho on each chip then merges them. The nachos arrive loaded with pepperjack and cheddar cheeses, red and green onions, tons of black olives, and jalapenos, and they’re served with fresh homemade salsa, chipotle-cilantro sour cream, with the options of adding pulled spicy barbecue chicken or seasoned ground beef. It’s difficult for two people to polish off.

[Top of Tacoma Bar & Café, 3529 McKinley Ave., Tacoma, 253.272.1502]