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Essential Guide to drinking like a Pierce County resident

Where we sip among our indigenous camaraderie

You can't call yourself a Tacoman without having tossed a few back at the Top of Tacoma Bar and Cafe.

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South Sound residents are a pretty easy breed to spot. Our love of the roasted bean is immense, so much so we can turn an average cup of joe order into a triple-grande-sugar-free-mochachino-extra hot with no foam. We've been known to have a penchant for flannels and beanie caps. But more importantly we have a fierce appreciation for craft cocktails and icy cold pints of malt and hops. Naturally then those from out of town have a diverse group of bars from which to choose from. So here are 11 bar establishments you should visit to instantly become a South Sounder. They aren't all glamorous but this is where we sip among our indigenous camaraderie.

The Schooner Pub and Galley in Lakewood has been a nightlife staple since 1972. That's older than yours truly. Thanks to pool tables, brews, booze and karaoke, The Schooner is a diverse mix of regulars and a natural choice for those enlisted due to its proximity to the base.

[5429 100th St., SW, Lakewood]

This joint is a mythical thing of Northwest lore; built in 1927 it has stood the test of time and served as a major Tacoma landmark. It's Bob's Java Jive. (OK, it's older than me, too.) It's kitschy through and through with a weird mesh of memorabilia, Christmas lights and has a dive-y underground vibe that one could only find inside a giant teapot. Plus they host live music acts on the weekends and karaoke Sunday through Tuesday. All the cool kids ante up to the rail. 

[2102 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma]

The South Sound is a water front destination meaning lots of residents have boats. And what goes better than boats and booze? Um, nothing - though we recommend you drink responsibly. The Tides Tavern in Gig Harbor can be given a traditional address or opt for latitude, longitude coordinates because seafarers can pull their boat right up and pop inside for a bite or beverage.

[2925 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor]

Chris Kiel and crew of Hilltop Kitchen have gained national recognition and a reputation as former operators of another popular establishment because they continue to impress with their incredibly creative craft cocktails and delivery of flawless Latin and South American flavors. HK is for those who love a flavor journey and like trying new things.

[913 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma]

Dirty Oscars Annex is the epitome of gastro pub goodness at its finest. Guy Fieri of the Food Network even paid a visit to cover a few of their entreés. It's phenomenal breakfast, lunch and dinner cuisine and puts on some party pants in the late night hour. [2309 Sixth Ave., Tacoma]

Top of Tacoma Bar and Cafe is another must visit bar in the area thanks to the casual pub ambiance that delivers ridiculously gourmet grade grub serving up vegan, vegetarian and health nut friendly nibbles that don't taste like cardboard. It's out of the hub of things at the "top" of Tacoma but is well worth a journey on the path less traveled.

[3529 McKinley Ave., Tacoma]

Though 1022 South J has undergone some management changes it has remained true to its roots - inventive boozy concoctions and stellar nibbles. The space is intimate and ideal for a cozy date night or passionate close-knit discussion among friends. During warm weather, it's patio jumps.

[1022 South J, Tacoma]

The Eleven Eleven has been accused of being beardy and hip. That's quite all right with me, especially if they continue to serve up some of the best sandwiches in town. Hot, cold, classic and inventive, owners Rob and Justin Peterson brothers focus on what they are good at: making freakin' tasty sandwiches and pair them with brews and booze. It's casual, delicious, lively and quickly made the transition from fledgling tavern type to a must visit joint.

[1111 S. 11th, Tacoma]

If you're a lover of the hops then Parkway Tavern and The Red Hot are required visits. True taverns, both Tacoma joints consistently feature some of the best tap selections in the area. The Red Hot - which is the go-to spot for hot dogs - will soon make an enormous leap in size with an upcoming move next door. The Parkway is a classic neighborhood hang, with a fun front patio during warm weather.

[313 N. I, Tacoma] and [2914 Sixth Ave., Tacoma]

Waterfront dining and drinking is a matrimony made in heaven in the South Sound. While there are many water-side bars, only one adds award-winning pizza to the mix: Katie Downs. The outdoor seating area serves up majestic views of Commencement Bay paired with brews, booze and the winner of the Tournament of Pizza. 

[3211 Ruston Way, Ruston]

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