Urban Spelunker: Three Bridges District

Unique collection of eats, drinks and shops in Tacoma

By Jackie Fender on October 24, 2013

The Three Bridges District is aptly named thanks to several small bridges that link North Tacoma streets over the Puget Gulch Creek surrounding North 21st and Oakes streets. This quaint district could almost be considered an expansion of the Proctor District due to its close proximity, but it maintains a character all its own with a unique collection of establishments from eats and drinks to a plethora of services and retail provided. Three Bridges isn't more than a two-block span of businesses but manages to pack tons of local goodness into the charming North Tacoma strip.

[Throw One (or a few) Back]
Magoo's Annex is the quintessential neighborhood bar. The joint is comprised of pool tables, a juke box and well-worn seats and tables paired with booze, bites and brews. It's a laid back go-to for a stiff one after work or a pitcher with friends on a Friday night. Open 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday-Friday; 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. 2710 N. 21st St., Tacoma, 253.759.0467

[Coffee Brews 'n Bites]
Its moniker is an appropriate homage to a pair of brothers who opened a grocery store in 1907 in the area. Cafe Brosseau (pronounced Brew-So) has a lovely coffee shop atmosphere and serves up roasted bean concoctions from Madrona Coffee. Other delights include a tea selection from Mad Hat Tea, sandwiches, Corina baked goods and Alinas Soups. The space is comfy and perfect for work or good conversation and even has a small area where children can entertain themselves with blocks, cars and other small toys. Open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Sunday. 2716 N. 21st St., Tacoma, 253.327.1306

[Sippin' Sommeliers]
21 Cellars was deemed "Best Winery" by South Sound Magazine in 2010 and again in 2012. This boutique winery opens its tasting room each Saturday to the masses and pours Bordeaux-style vinos. Winemaker Philip Coates prides himself on his winemaking techniques that include minimal intervention with quality results. Open 2-6 p.m. Saturday; Thursday by appointment. 2621 N. 21st St., Tacoma, 253.220.7752

[Decorating Divas]
Delicate touches, vintage-inspired finds and chalk paint lie within The Design Cottage. This boutique boasts a rotating inventory of home décor goods from large staple pieces to stylish touches and plays host to classes to help you craft your way to chalk paint pro. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. 2624 N. 21st St., Tacoma, 253.759.4748

[Brewin' Beer Buddies]
If you're looking to gain some insight into the world of home brewing, Mash, Everything Home Brewing is the place to hit up. For home brew novices to pros, Mash has what you need from brew-related books and magazines to the equipment, grains, hops and yeast. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 2714 N. 21st St., Tacoma, 253.759.4908

Hair-do Mavens: Willow Salon and Spa, Beach House Salon, Loui's Barber Shop
For the Mind, Body and Spirit: Source Yoga