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South Pacific

Obvious cougar and Paw reference here

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The following is a true story. Cross my heart, hope to die.

My first time visiting Tumwater's South Pacific, I was approached by an older woman. She was petite, blonde and pretty. She grabbed my waist while I was shaking my stuff on the dance floor. "I'm 48 years old," she whispered into my ear. "That's nice," I said back, neglecting to mention she was almost twice my age. We danced for a bit before she asked if I would like to accompany her back to her yacht (I know, yacht!) to wind down the evening. I politely declined. She accepted my refusal and we parted ways. I immediately called a handful of friends to brag about my obviously irresistible ways with women.

So, you can see why I'm not exactly an objective observer when it comes to reviewing the place most just call the Paw. Best club west of the Mississippi? It has my vote.

Tonight's snowy weather makes driving a precarious affair, and early in the evening the crowd at the Paw seems a bit light. Most of the action goes down in the restaurant. Steaming plates of egg rolls and almond chicken are delivered by friendly waitresses. Over-the-top Asian art decorates the walls. On more than one occasion, I hear customers referred to by their first names. I'm reminded that the Paw is very much a local's bar.

Slowly, groups of partiers trickle to the dance floor. The Paw offers live bands every weekend, and this goes a long way toward encouraging people to get their groove thang. Even on slower nights like this one, the Paw's ample dance floor feels packed. Much of the crowd is 40 and above. Muscular, graying men in leather jackets and blue jeans dance with equally attractive, equally middle-aged partners. Locals hug and high-five under the Paw's concert-style light system. Drinks flow freely.  

As the evening ramps up, no moods appear dampened by the weather outside. Except for mine, but that's because not one single lady grabs me around the waist for round two. 

South Pacific Restaurant


Open until 2 a.m., $5 cover on weekends
3507 Capitol Blvd. SW, Tumwater
360.352.0701

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