Ladies looking for a night out with friends need look no farther than right around the corner. There are several establishments in the Joint Base Lewis-McChord area that offer opportunities for fun and friends.

In downtown Tacoma, Asian fusion restaurant Indochine, located at 1924 Pacific Ave.,is a must visit. The flavors of Thailand, China, India, Japan and Vietnam come together to produce something for everyone.  Get away from the kids for a few hours and enjoy dishes like firecracker spring rolls, cashew chicken, spicy basil beef and green curry chicken while spending time with good friends in a lush environment. Finish off your meal with gelato, crème brulee or lemon coconut cake.

Private rooms, including the Tatami room and Pavilion, are available for groups and feature ornate drapes and sheers and a gilded theater lamp.  Dine Thai style and enjoy all Indochine has to offer at an affordable price. Most appetizers are under $10 and entrees are available for around $15. 

For more information or to make a reservation, call 253-272-8200. Reservations can also be made online at http://indochinedowntown.com/reservations.html.

Another Ladies' Night Out staple in the JBLM area is Chopstix Piano Bar, located at 2702 6th Ave.  in Tacoma. The entertaining show features dueling pianists - and audience participation. Thursdays are "Ladies Nights," with no cover charge. Fridays and Saturdays feature a "Rock and Roll Dinner Show" ($7 cover charge). A full menu is available, and Thursdays feature specials such as a sirloin steak for just $10. Reservations - especially for those wanting to join in the pre-show fun - are recommended. For more information, visit www.chopstixpianobar.com/Tacoma or call   (253) 627-7555.

Fondue chain Melting Pot is another experience not to be missed. The Tacoma restaurant, at 2121 Pacific Avenue, features cook-it-yourself fondue meals and desserts such as the four-course "Big Night Out - France." Savor a delicious cheese fondue followed by salad Nicoise, an entrée of filet mignon, chicken Provencal, garlic roasted shrimp and more topped off by a desert of white chocolate Crème Brule served with strawberries, pound cake, brownies, bananas and more. Individual entrees, such as the seafood trio or teriyaki-marinated salmon, are also available. Cook to your taste in a bubbling fondue of Coq au Vin, Bouillon, Bourguignonne or Mojo style. 

Thursdays are Ladies Nights, with half-price bar drinks. For more information, visit www.meltingpot.com or call (253) 535-3939.

Another friend-friendly option is Mandolin Café, located at 3923 S 12th St. in Tacoma. With a European-bistro feel and great desserts, locally brewed beers and live music almost every night, the café is a place to gather with good friends and catch up. For more information, visit www.themandolincafe.com or call (253) 762-3482.

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