Cafe Banana has been in Lakewood for only three months, but it is already developing a reputation for quality dining. This authentic Asian bistro has fresh seafood daily, a variety of selections from Japanese to comfort-style foods, and a former New York chef whose specialty is Thai cuisine. It's a nice change of pace for hail and farewell celebrations as well as meetings, conferences or a ladies' night out. 

The restaurant offers a 25 percent military discount and has a banquet-style area that can hold 90 occupants along with a private conference room that seats 20 (plus an additional 75 seats in the restaurant area).

Meals are made from scratch, and there are gluten-free options as well. Choices include curries, French pastries, satay, noodles, and a distinctive combination of entrees unique to the restaurant. Menus are customized for banquets, private events and special occasion celebrations - there are no cookie-cutter selections.

"If you can't create surprise in food, then it isn't good enough," said General Manager Tony Wen. "We strive to create layers of flavor in our food."

There's also a full bar, Friday night Karaoke, and half-priced drinks during happy hour. (Cafe Banana, 10115 S. Tacoma Way, Lakewood).

Whether it's hail and farewells, romantic dinners, or just a military spouses' night out, The Melting Pot in Tacoma offers an exquisite one-of-a-kind, four-course dining experience that's just that - an experience.

With a 20 percent military discount; private, closed-off rooms with dedicated servers that hold 16 and 40 people, respectively; truly private booths; and fondue combinations that "melt" in your mouth, The Melting Pot  is perfect for intimate gatherings and events. The menu options and parings are numerous, and the restaurant offers celebration packages, fondue gifts, and cheese & chocolate party options.

"It's perfect for that first date," said Jeff Morgan, Tacoma's general manager. "You get to know each other while you cook in a fondue-style pot at your table."

Diners choose their own fondue blends, accompaniments, entree cooking styles, and decadent melting chocolate fondue mixtures. There are also gluten-free and vegetarian options. 

"The overall meal takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours," said Karen Lawler, director of marketing, "and that's why it's great; you don't want to rush celebrations or events."

There is also a full bar, evening and late night happy hour, specialty drinks, and an extensive wine selection. Check it out, even if only to see how it has perfected fondue into an experience.

(Melting Pot, 2121 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma).