Bordering the east side of Joint Base Lewis-McChord is the "Roy Y." This area refers to where State Routes 7 and 507 intersect, making a Y shape. This intersection, deep in Spanaway, takes you down a scenic drive to the town of Roy and continues through Spanaway toward Mount Rainier. It's a high commute area for residents and the military alike. Along the four-lane highway, you'll come across a variety of vehicle repair shops and car lots, corporate dining options, big box retailers such as Walmart and an alarming number of empty commercial storefronts. Many of the strip malls are near barren. But all the same, here are a few of the lesser-known finds in the surrounding area.

[Choo-Choo Chums]

J.R.'s Whistle Stops menu has big variety, from its breakfast staples and ample entreé and grub-style fare to its delectable dessert menu that includes deep-fried Oreos. This joint is family friendly with a cocktail lounge, so you can have a good time with or without the young ones in tow. In addition, J.R.'s is one of the few establishments I've come across that hosts family-friendly karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Sing your hearts out Partridge Family-style. You know you want to. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 7-1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, 22225 Mountain Highway East, Spanaway, 253.847.0112

[For the Farmers]

Del's Feed and Farm Supply is a one-stop shop for farmers and ranchers alike. Inventory includes pets, piggies and chickens and other livestock along with feed, accessories and animal care supplies. There are also a variety of products for your acres of land, outdoor work and even camping. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful for the rookie ranch hand in you. 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, 20718 Mountain Highway E., Spanaway, 253.847.6651

[Old School Eats]

Little Park Restaurant has a charming, vintage appeal. It's diner dining at its finest with big portions and home-cooked flavor. It's the epitome of "hole in the wall," but it's clear with how busy it is that the regulars know what's up. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and PIES are on the menu. 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 17106 Pacific Ave. S., Spanaway, 253.531.1343

[Going Big]

Country Rose Café has shown some staying power by serving up its Spanaway-famous country fried steak and hobo hash for 19 years. There are some raffle deals coming up to celebrate the anniversary, and big deals in place to show Seahawks pride - like a behemoth of a burger. It's family-friendly dining with lots of space for big groups. Breakfast, lunch and dinner feature locally-sourced produce when able and house-made desserts. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, 15803 Pacific Ave. S., Tacoma, 253.539.0127